[A/S] Brad - towing to Oregon

["Richard McFarland" <estatewagons@xxxxxxx>]

Brad - Have you verified the gear ratio of your differential to make sure 
it's within the logical range for towing a 28' trailer?  Have you verified 
which radiator you have?

The 360 V-8 was an undersized 390 as I remember.  The 352/390 series were 
work horses when set up properly - but the 360?  I'd make sure your 
drivetrain package is balanced for long range towing.  Does it have a 
2-barrel carb on it? We bought a new 1972 F-250 with a 360 in it - and it 
only had a 2 barrel carb.  I'd talk to several old time mechanics who worked 
on 360's when they were new.

I'm not sure about 1973 - but was this a crossover time when there was an 
F-100 "and" an F-150 offered?  If so - then the F-100 is the "lighter" 
version of 1/2 tons offered that year.  (check on that - I'm not sure when 
Ford switched over to using the F-150 name tag.  Keep in mind that there are 
many different variations in 1/2 tons.  It's a common name for a model 
line-up - but it's just a beginning...and does not mean all 1/2 ton trucks 
are the same. You have to consider the indivdual truck as to how it's set 
up.

Are you planning for all your upgrade dollars to be part of a full time tow 
rig in the future?  Or is this just to get to Oregon?

If so - might the dollars put in just to make the trip be better spent in 
having the trailer delivered professionally - and then shop for a matched 
tow rig if and when you need it/want to invest in it.

I-5 North of Redding - while it's freeway - it is definitely something to be 
prepared for.  It's not just one uphill grade and then down...as I remember 
it - particularly around Lake Shasta - I remember it as a series of 
undulating uphill pulls.

Best Wishes.  RL