Tow Vehicles

When we purchased our trailer we had a 2005 GMC Envoy for towing. I checked all the specs and we were within the towing capability of the vehicle. When I picked up the trailer we measured the drop and decided immediately to add a special weight distribution hitch. I was surprised at how well it leveled out the GMC. I also had to install an electronic brake controller. Even though the GMC was wired for a brake controller there was none installed. It was easy.

2005 GMC Envoy

Although the GMC was capable, it was on the line for towing power. I did some research and there were three suggestions for upgrades. The first was to add a transmission cooler. The second was to add a cold air intake to the engine. The third was to install a custom computer chip for controlling the shift points. We had hoped to do some longer trips in the future so I considered the upgrades.

In the late winter of 2017 my Mother passed away. Due to some money coming our way right away we decided to upgrade the tow vehicle. It was easy to decide on a Ford F-150 with the 3.7L EcoBoost engine and tow package.   We found one with only 20K miles (although I'm still suspicious of this figure).

   2014 Ford F-150

The truck didn't need any modifications. We hooked up the trailer and it didn't budge. Towing with this beast is great. Unfortunately the power and capability comes at a cost...gas mileage. We only get about 10 MPG while towing. On our 10 day trip to Florida last summer it was flawless. Most of the time I couldn't even tell we were towing anything. Except for the large white block in the mirrors. 

We use clip on mirrors while towing. I would like to upgrade to towing mirrors which retract. That and a cold air intake are the only modifications I would like to make. 

In 2019 we are planning on making several trips...Williamsburg VA, Goshen NY and Old Orchard Beach & Fryeburg ME.