Hitch rating, Weight distributing hitch, Tires, wheels and loading – FORD 2009 F-550 v.3 User Manual
Page 266
Hitch rating
The standard hitch has two ratings depending on mode of operation:
• Weight carrying - requires a draw bar and hitch ball. The draw bar
supports all the vertical tongue load of the trailer.
• Weight distributing - requires an aftermarket weight distributing
system which includes draw bar, hitch ball, spring bars and snap-up
brackets. The vertical tongue load of the trailer is distributed between
the truck and the trailer by this system.
Hitch Type
Maximum Gross
Trailer Weight
— lb. (kg)
Maximum
Tongue Weight
— lb. (kg)
6.8L DRW
Pickup
2.5” ID without
adapter
(requires 2.5”
drawbar)
Weight
carrying
8000 (3629)
800 (363)
Weight
distributing
15000 (6804)
1500 (680)
6.8L DRW
Pickup
2.5” ID with
adapter
(requires 2”
drawbar)
Weight
carrying
6000 (2721)
600 (272)
Weight
distributing
12500 (5670)
1250 (567)
All SRW Pickups
and 5.4L DRW
Pickups
2” receiver
Weight
carrying
6000 (2721)
600 (272)
Weight
distributing
12500 (5670)
1250 (567)
WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum tongue weight
exceeds the limit of the towing system and could result in
vehicle structural damage, loss of vehicle control and personal injury.
Weight distributing hitch
When hooking up a trailer using a load equalizing hitch, always use the
following procedure:
1. Park the unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and
all doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it
can level.
2009 F-250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide, 3rd Printing
USA (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
266