[A/S] Tow Unit ?s

[ericj@xxxxxxxxxxxx]

Hi Listies,

First off some history.  I've been on the list for a little over a
year.  You only hear from me periodically.  When we where looking for an
Airstream we promised ourselves we wouldn't get a trailer we couldn't
pull will our present tow vehicle.  A full sized Ford Bronco with a
5.0.  I know, I know.  I could see Hunter and most of you cringing as
you read that last line.  We had been pulling a 17' sob without incident
for 3 years.  Actually, I lied there.  The first time we used this setup
we had the sway thing start when a semi went by.  Very scary!!!  We
where on a short trip and after returning home I installed a fiction
type sway bar and the towing was ok after that.

Now to our "new" trailer.  Our 1976 25' trailer weighs about 5600 lbs.
when loaded for a trip.  The manual for the Bronco says it is rated to
tow 7000 lbs.  Ha, ha, ha.  Ok, it pulls the trailer.  We did bring the
trailer 800 miles home but it was really working.

We are looking at replacing the Bronco (for safety and towabilty
reasons) with a full sized Ford conversion van.  Here's where I'm
looking for opinions.  Are some of you using the older 5.8L or newer
5.4L?  Will I be happy using one of these engines with this trailer?  I
know I need to watch the rear end ratio.  The 3.73 looks like what's
available for towing with these motors.  Can I go for the E150 or do I
need an E250?  I'm finding conversions in E250 or E350 are much harder
to find.  We will be using this in the mountains.  Yes, the budget is
somewhat limited.  A power stroke in an E350 would be wonderful but not
really an option.

I have found that the tow ratings don't tell all and that's where you
all come in.

Thanks in advance!
Eric Johnson
#9497
76 International 25'