@@gebertgyeah the HP and Torque wars kinda make things ridiculous. I mean we’re seeing half tons with near 600lb-ft. I’m sure it makes towing feel effortless but half tons really shouldn’t be towing or hauling too much. My older 5.0 has way more than I need, even doing well towing 8k lbs.
After owning 2 3.5/10 speeds , it’s my belief that there’s nothing except the big 3s diesels after 2010 that can out pull these little monsters . Yes they devour fuel towing heavy . Both mine out pulled my tuned 8.1 and my tow tuned lb7 Duramax diesel . Anyone who doubts the towing power of these trucks has never pulled with one .
Couldn’t agree more. Pulled a camper thousands of miles with mine. Ended up getting a 250 because the newer camper was just to much for the size of the half ton. By far the best towing half ton. It’s really not close
I have pulled a few times with the expedition. I was very impressed with the power of 3.5 and the overall experience with the suspension set up on the expedition. Pulling about 6k lbs.
They are thirsty but the hood towing experience makes it worth it to me and plus, most half ton owners only tow a couple times a month. Still waiting on the 2.7 test and if you can get a 3.5 with 3.55/3.73 I’d love to see a comparison or your thoughts. Looking forward to some more content
I have a 2.7 ecoboost I use for general contractor work. I tow trailers multiple times a week. Dump trailer, equipment trailers. The motor has sooooo much power the suspension is the weak link. I added timbrens to the rear to help with sag. I have towed around 10,000 lbs multiple times(I try not to do that). But the engine can pull the load happily never going over 50% throttle. The 2.7 is far more capable than the chassis/suspension of the truck.
I have the 2019 F150 Lariat, with the Max Towing package. This past Fall, we pulled our 30 foot Keystone Cougar travel trailer with 2 slides (7,990 lbs empty, max of 9,500 lbs loaded) from upstate NY to Colorado. We used a ProPride 3P hitch to handle the weight and length of the trailer ... and were extremely pleased. While crossing the plains, we didn't really have any mountains or big hills to climb ... Upstate NY, PA, and Eastern Ohio probably had the most hills to deal with. This truck with the 3.55 rear end ratio, pulled like a champ ... I couldn't believe how great this engine pulls. Yes, the fuel economy sucked ... averaging 10.1 mpg on our way West, and 9.5 mpg heading back East. Other than my older F350's (2000 and 2005) with Powerstroke diesels, this truck was by far the best towing experience I've had with a 1/2 ton truck. I love it .... and Ford EcoBoost made me a believer!!
This is so good to read, just bought a 30' keystone 30ripr at just a little lighter weight. Have a 2018 f150 with max tow and am getting a great sway control wdh (not quite as great as the pro pride lol).
@@Troll4youu I don't know, as I traded the F150 for a 2021 F350 King Ranch ... But I seem to recall the payload was around 1,900 lbs .... or something close to that.
I have a 2021 max tow 6.5 foot bed with 3.55 gears and 3.5l eco. Max tow for my set up is 13,800lbs. I have a 2800bh GD travel trailer that weighs about 8k lbs and when towing my GCW is about 15k lbs. The trailer is about 11.5 ft tall, 8 ft wide and 32 ft long. Towing 4k miles so far and around 65mph with minimal hills generally gets me about 8.5 mpg. I haven’t hit a hill yet that I couldn’t gain speed if needed. I’m impressed with the setup.
2023 ecoboost, 3.55 rear end, FX4 towing 16' x 7' x 7' tandem axle box trailer 8 - 9 mpg towing 7,000# at 70 mph on the flat, happy to drop back to 60 in the mountains, keeps the revs down.
I can confirm that bad towing mileage with the 3.5 Ecoboost. I towed with a travel trailer and the extra surface area behind you really makes a difference. I recently traded that rig in for a F350 with a 7.3, and that big motor is better on gas while towing. Not the case while empty though.
I’ve been towing with my 2015 3.5 EB for 4 years now and my towing mileage average between my 9k pound travel trailer, my dump trailer and and small enclosed trailer is consistently in the 10-12 mpg range. Mine has the 3.31 gears and the six speed with a tune. It’s an amazing towing engine, I still smile when I put my foot on the accelerator. Great truck and awesome engine.
How's the reliability been with your 1st gen 3.5? I just had my coolant connectors and lines replaced on the turbos at 190,000 km. No issues with cam phasers or timing chain yet.
@@4fifty8 no problems but I’m only at 90k miles. But I send oil samples for analysis once a year and everything is always perfect. Engine is quiet and strong.
I own a 2022 F350 6,7 and its unbelievable but if im pulling a boat or trailer 10,000lbs or less i prefer to use my 2016 f150 with 3,5 ecoboost. Mine has 120K miles on it and still as strong as day one.
I have the same cab/bed 2021 f150 5.0 with 3:31 gears. I pull a 26ft 6,500lb toy hauler camper and average 9.5mpg with it. Unloaded I get 22mpg. Never any issues with power up hills and seldom rev passed 4,000rpm. These new ford trucks are just incredible across the board.
My 2023 3.5 EcoBoost also drinks fuel when towing, I tow a smaller camper about 4,000 lbs, I use it most every weekend in the summer to announce at race tracks in my area, most trips are about 200 miles per weekend, I normally get 8.5 mpg to 10.4 mpg. My mileage before break-in was completed was lower, about 7 mpg, that really sucked. My previous truck, 2022 with the 2.7 was slightly easier on fuel pulling the same trailer, it did about 11.5 mpg maybe a bit more. I loved your video and the content, keep up the good work, I look forward to watching more.
I’ve got a 2018 3.5 ecoboost 4x4 crew cab 6.5 bed. My 5th wheel dry weight is 6000lbs, towing it this past summer to the lake approximately 100km each way, I was getting about 24-25L/100km, I was pretty happy about that.
I own a 21 with the heavy duty payload package, Max towing package, 3.73 gears, payload is 2,500 lbs. I have towed my 28 ft, 7,500 lbs. travel trailer for over 5k miles and avg 8.5mpg. Speed is what kills when towing. I'm towing no faster than 65mph. Love my Eco-BEAST!
Towed 29' foot travel trailer loaded weight of approx 7,500 lbs + 1,000 lbs of truck cargo with 2017 F-150 3.5 Ecoboost w/3.55 axle from Pennsylvania to Wyoming to Arizona to Florida (6,000) miles averaged 9.5 mpg. I tracked mpg which was about .5mpg less than truck mpg indicator. Out west there are significant mountains to travel and never ever had a problem with maintaining speeds of 70+ mph even on steepest grades. I did use high test (91 octane) when towing. At times I would knock out 8,9 and 10 gears on steep grades to keep engine from lugging. Higher rpms (2,500 - 3000) would significantly reduce boost and engine temps. By doing this engine rarely got to above 200F degree during peak load. Otherwise truck would try to run at higher gears, higher boost, lower rpm and higher temps (20 - 30 degree higher). When I first bought truck used at 37,000 miles the truck would run hot +226F degrees at times even when not towing. Prior to trip, replaced OEM 195 degree thermostat with racing 170 degree thermostat). Ford actually replaced early versions of 2nd gen thermostats' with different part number due to problems with originals sticking. Also replaced OEM intercooler with much larger one and removed electronic shudders. I also used Forscan to have engine and transmission actual temps displayed above normal gauges.
Yah it does tow incredibly well. I use a 2016 Expedition with 6 speed. Mine has a colder tstat (175), bigger inner cooler, and 5star tow tune, tow mirrors, HD custom rear springs and Bilstein 5100. It basically just tugs our 28' 7800 pound trailer down the road in similar fashion. My normal MPG is around 8 mpg pre AirTabs. It will average down to 7.4-8 if there are far more hills then flat. Aerodynamics are way more important then weight at highway speed. I've added these things called AirTabs to the side of my trailer and it improved stability and increased my MPG to around 8.7-9 now. It improved the aero enough that it keeps gears better in my 6 speed. I also tow no faster then 65. There is actually a pretty decent sweet spot at 60-63 (gears, aero, mpg). You traveling at 68 mph will drop MPG quite a lot, but I have never seen that low. It may have to do with the hills.
I would of LOVED 8mpg I don't know why it was so bad. I'm gonna take the trailer into the shop and pull the wheels and checked bearings and brakes. I wonder if something is dragging. Very interesting about the Airtabs. maybe I'll look into them! Ideally I'd like to travel around 65mph but the speed limit on these roads is 68 (110km) so I like to at least doing the speed limit.
Can you share the links to the tow mirrors, HD custom rear springs and Bilstein 5100? I have a 16 navigator and would be interested in upgrading these items.
@@marioferretti5431 Also with these shocks you can still do a lift with them and dial it in to where you want. I set mine to be raked and it is 100% perfect. I did pre and post install measurements. Did the rears first and dialed that in. And then did the front. I recall either stock or slight lift in the front. My Expedition looks lifted compared to all others on the road that are stock. It rides firm, like a HD truck, but it is still fine. It doesn't wallow at all. It's also my tow rig not my daily. Oh one more thing, when you set your WDH hitch make sure you get as close to zero lift on the front axle, in other words returning as close to 100% of the weight as you can.
@@marioferretti5431 If you want the tune, IC, and tstat you can get those from 5startuning. The IC was Wagner Tuning. Oh and I used the SCT X4 tuner. I use an app called Torque and watch all my boost, temps, etc closely on my phone. That was how I determined I was having cooling issues related to the IC.
'22 ecoboost with 3.31 gears. My father and I towed our 16x8.5 enclosed with probably 1000lbs of furniture and stuff loaded. Hauled it from North Carolina to Ohio. We ended with approx 8mpg. Practically the entire trip, we took it out of tow/haul and changed gears manually to get the best mileage. With such a long trip, it really matters how you drive. We determined that pulling any load will pretty much result in the same fuel economy.
When we moved to Alaska, my wife and I were towing equal size and weight trailers. Her in her EcoBoost expedition and me in my Godzilla super duty. I was consistently getting three to five MPG better than her in my Godzilla. Over 3,000 miles, that really added up
@@Jeff-bd2kq the Godzilla definitely pulled harder. Very similar feeling with both though, with torque production starting way low. It's hard to compare just engines with two very different rigs and different transmissions.
I just need it to two cars for my project cars and an alright sized camper for camping and daily stuff This engine and set up sound practically perfect for my use
Hi Getty, I appreciate your review. There are way too many auto journalists with channels. I appreciate mechanics like yourself doing technical reviews. Can you do a technical review of the f150 and sierra in the lift? Suspension, oil pan, trans pan, differentials, transfer case, turbo design, cooling design, cooling, etc. Similar to what Car Care Nut does for the Tundra... Tia.
This guy did a great job doing a technical review of the Tundra. I'm including here to give you some ideas of topics to potentially cover for an F150 and Sierra review. "The Car Care Nut : 2022 Toyota Tundra Technical Review - Everything You Need to Know". TIA
I have a 2011 f150 ecoboost. The trailer I’ve towed for the last 8 years, weighted 3 - 4 k and I was getting, beat case scenario, 10 mpg but when I first picked up the trailer and driving 150 miles home. I was getting just under 7 mpg. This was under strong winds and going 75. I learned since then it’s best to tow 60 - 65 mph. No power issues, great power no matter if towing up a big hill or level surface. I now have a new trailer the weights over 5k. I’ll be interested to see if I have any power issues in the mountains. I recently had 2 times over the last 5 months where I questioned if I might be having a turbo issue. On Friday, the shop said one of the turbo’s shaft is loose or too much play and suggested having it replaced (87,000 miles) Excellent power with the ecoboost. For about the last year, I switched to a mid grade fuel and am pleased with better fuel economy, mixed driving - 18 mpg. I’ll also like to see with a new turbo and planned change of spark plugs and coil packs if I’ll see any difference in operations of the truck. As far as this video, sure the 8k is within the towable limits, but I wonder if the tongue weight, allows the truck to stay within the payload capacity of the truck? I’d say an f250 is better suitable for an 8k load.
I appreciate your camera view. I could clearly see both the gauges and the terrain ahead. I suspect your mpg's would have been slightly better on a dry surface.
I had a 16' 3.5L EB with 3.73 ratio and suicide doors. Used it to tow almost every week and usually had about 8-9 mpg average. Like most others are saying you get Eco or you get Boost but not both Traded up for a diesel and honestly they two feel very similar when towing, but the economy in a diesel is exponentially better....
Turbos always help with towing and hill climbing. Boost is magic lol. Out of curiosity, what did your power wagon get towing that trailer home, if you remember. I haven't gotten a chance to tow with my 17 power wagon yet but I'm excited to strap a trailer on her.
People in my opinion expect way too much from 1/2 ton pickups. I have the the 3.5 ecoboost also, and it is a power house....however I certainly would NOT pull around an 8 to 10K trailer on a frequent basis. It will do it with relative ease, however you'll pay for it. The beauty of this truck is the fact that it will do it without the drama of a 5.0, 5.3 or even a 6.2 V8 screaming down the road at 5000rpm. And when my 3.5 isn't towing a trailer that a Super Duty should be pulling it gets great MPGs.
very much agree. if you are consistently towing 10k you need an HD truck. the half tons aren't built for it. They can certainly do it safely but they will not hold up like an HD truck.
@@KT_keeperthe response was pretty decent mileage however my fuel experience is not as great, while my truck is a 2011 ecoboost, and the window sticker showed 21 mpg. Only twice in the 13 years have I got 21 mpg, usually I was getting 15 mpg. Since last year, I’ve started to use 87 octane fuel vs the 85 (reg, not E85) and I’ve started to see 18, maybe 19 mpg.
The Ford 3.5 Ecoboost motor has been out since 2010 and has proved itself worthy as a truck motor capable of hauling heavy loads and being relatively reliable. No matter the motor you choose. Each engine is more then capable of handling truck duties and being relatively reliable. Ford's nowadays is the leader in engine development and these motors are a testament to that 🤙🏼🇺🇲
I own a f150 2023 poerboost towing a 30ft travel trailer. The truck definitely gets like 5 to 7 when climbing or heavy head winds. Normal stretches on freeway are up to 10, but I also do around 75 mph. Anyway, your comment resonates as some areas you feel like you are stopping every 3 hours and paying attention to where the next gas station is. That said, it tows like a dream.
The EB is tuned rich from the factory to lower combustion temperatures. The intercooler is undersized. I'm not into tunning my DD but I've heard a tune and larger intercooler will make them tow even better and give you a few mpg.
With heavy loads around 8-10k, I usually get 8-10 mpg in my 2020 3.5. Never got 6 with anything. The wind resistance must have been brutal with that trailer.
With an 7500 lb travel trailer I averaged between 5-6 mpg with my Ecoboost (3:55 rear axle). Wind resistance is real which is why travel trailers can't be viewed the same as towing a flatbed trailer. Night and day difference.
@@jerry-381dang that’s pretty low. I’ve seen people in the 7-8 range before but even 15%+ lower than that is brutal. My 5.0 did 10.1 towing an 8k toy hauler round trip in some gnarly 40mph winds. And I thought that was fairly bad lol.
@@ALMX5DP yeah it is low but to my point that's what happens when you factor in wind drag and a long trailer length. It makes a huge difference not only in fuel mileage but in handling abilities in the truck that towing numbers doesn't reflect. This is why I maintain tow rating numbers for half ton trucks don't apply at all to towing travel trailers.
@@jerry-381 true, and yeah I think most half tons (I know for sure F-150) have trailer frontal area stipulations in the owners manual. It’s kinda ridiculous that trailer size or profile are not considered in the SAE J2807 for tow ratings. I think most get their ratings via a flatbed with flat steel plates. Very different to a 10’ tall travel trailer like you said.
I have a 2020 and 3.5 L EcoBoost. I pull a 2022 Grand Design 265bh. This is a 32 ft camper mid 6000 lb range. I get between 8 and 9 Mi per gallon in Indiana pulling it around. Absolutely love the power of this engine. Most V8 gas will get about the same pulling the same camper.
Indiana myself. Just put a deposit on a 2021 Ecoboost model. My tacoma (as much as I love it for hunting and such) just is not doing well pulling my side by side or small enclosed trailer. The room of of the cabin is greater as well. Having a 9 yr old son who is already 5’4”, I know its only a matter of time before the Tacoma will not be feasible for a family of 4. There is really no way we could comfortably take a trip in the Tacoma of any distance, it just does not have the interior room. I wouldn’t even try to hook a camper up to my Taco…
I have a 2022 3.5L EcoBoost and it never fails, the moment I hook up my (under) 8klb travel trailer, the trucks MPG is about 5-7mpg. Its been a process to get the weight distribution system just right so there is no sway in the cab of the truck too - no sway in the trailer, just slight sliding feel up front - even when the trailer is unloaded.
I got 12-13 mpg towing an 8500 lb RV from Central Florida to Southeastern Alabama in my 2013 F150 with the ecoboost. 350 miles +/- 1/2 freeway, half hills at 45 +/- mph.
I've got a 2018 STX with the tire package and 3.5L EcoBoost. We towed our 35' camping trailer through the mountains around South Carolina and down to Florida and back without issues concerning power. We averaged about 7.3 gallons, flat Florida helps. I don't think I had the trailer breaking set right since my rear brake pads needed to be replaced afterwards. This truck is FAST. I spin rubber if I floor it in the Sport mode. Very fast and great performance. Not happy with the wind noise though.
I have a 2023 3.5 L with the 3.55 rear Max Tow and pull a 26ft 6500lb TT. It would stay mostly stay under 2k RPM at 65mph even up hills. A big head wind (25-30 mph) I got 6.5 to 7mpg. But without that big head win I got 8-9.5 mpg. The 3.31 rearend makes a difference.
I pulled a 30 foot 7,000# camper from Missouri to Connecticut through the Pennsylvania hills with my old 2020 RAM 1500 with 3.21s and I averaged 9mpg. Yes the 5.7 HEMI did downshift on every hill, but the mpg was much better than what you are seeing.
Hemi doesn’t compete with the 3.5 Ecoboost stock for stock and even more so when you throw a grand into the mix for a handheld and a tune. Hemi is louder tho, which I loved when I was young - but the older I get, the quieter I love my power plants in the trucks I drive. In the north east, I would take an aluminum body any day over steel. Main reason why I left GM products. Hemi or GMs EcoTec with Borla Atak does sound great tho.
@@bigf1502 .Hemi isn't really quieter,the 6 cyl Ford is noisy ,just different sounds.Ford sounds like a kid in a Civic 4cyl...Add the tuner with the Hemi it eats the Eco-Boost.. Remember the EcoBoost added power over the years while the Hemi didnt,the ecoBoost just in recent years was quicker than the Hemi.. Chrysler should have added Turbo's to the 5.7 then it would be a total beast,oh wait they sor tof did the 800hp Hellcat 6.2 Hemi is actually a stronger 5.7. Ford trucks still rust,their frames the body in aluminum is wimpier than the steel version..There is a crash test showing a Aluminum F150 vs steel f150 and the aluminum version crumbled in the same crash! Thing is it took Ford 2 years to improve the Aluminum F150 but only for crash tests as they know where they test..They reinforced the Aluminum F150 with steel the body still is wimpy and they crumble easily but the underside reinforced for crash tests(watch the video you will crap yourself its that bad)..You also can cut the panels of a F150-250-350 with a butter knife! Aluminum is wimpy!.The body still is wimpier than steel and you dont rust you still have deterioration,they pit.
You're going to need a lot more than 20 HP from a tuner to out run or out pull the Ecoboost. I've owned three Rams with the Hemi, the last a 2020 with 3.92s and while it was a great truck it had nothing on the 5.0 and certainly not the 3.5 Ecoboost. @@mypronouniswtf5559
@@mypronouniswtf5559 Hemi stock vs Ecoboost stock AND/OR Hemi tuned vs Ecoboost tuned is definitely not more powerful than Ecoboost. Lol. They did not reinforce the aluminum F150 with a steel body. Frames on the Fords are all steel, and always have been- just the body is aluminum. Aluminum doesn’t crumple - it rips. I’m a metallurgist bud. Yes, the 15/16 aluminum body F150s had bad crash test ratings - why they added the crash bars in front and behind the front wheels. You have no idea what you’re talking about. You need forged internals to keep a 5.7 together when boosted more than 8psi. Check out incredible hemi RUclips channel. Only way a Hemi can beat a tuned ecoboost is by adding boost to the hemi - and you’ll need forged internals to make it hold up.
Wow... that mileage!! Impressive that it toes so well... but towing my travel trailer (similar weight) with my half ton (not a ford) my mileage was quite a bit better. Doesn't quite have the same snap though! I'd still love to see you get your hands on a F150 Powerboost for a similar test
2021 3.5 FX4 36 GAL TANK, I get down in the 7 mpg range when towing my toy hauler (7,000 pounds) in the mountains and over 11 mpg on flat ground and no head wind...at around 65mph.
Great video Alex. I really like the ecoboost, and we have a 21 expedition with it and has been a champ. However i still prefer that turbo (or maybe even twinsies) pushin air into a big oil burner instead.
Awesome video man!!! I'm looking forward to some more with this trailer being towed, definitely a good comparison to pulling a travel trailer. That engine is a beast but I definitely wouldn't sacrifice my wallet for that performance lol, it would make me cry every time I would tow with it. I would need alot of clean X's lol😅
I’d like to see an how a upgraded intercooler and a higher flowing exhaust would affect mpg. If you can feed cooler air under load into the engine and also reduce back pressure on the turbo outlet which means less power wasted pushing exhaust out and more power actually getting to the crankshaft.
I usually get 8 to 10 mpg. Live in utah with 7500 lb toy hauler. Lots of mountain passes here. Best truck I've ever had, i dont stress. Just change the oil at 50% oil life and you should be good. Let your turbos cool down at idle after working them You must have had alot of wind that day. The only time i have gotten that bad fuel economy was pulling into strong winds
I pull 8050 # TT with my stock 13 screw (rated 11200). Keeping the speed at 60 MPH I get 8-10 with the E rated KO2s along the northern I-5 and western part of Wa State. 36 gal fuel tank is nice except when I top it off.
Keep in mind the amount of energy needed to move X lbs of weight is the same regardless of the power source! With a stronger engine, the transient response of going uo a hill or accelerating may be better than an engine running right at its limit!
Man, towing my 34’ 9000# TT across Washington state through passes and heinous winds I got around 8-9 mpg at 70-75. That was after 5 or more round trips. I think the 3.31 is the culprit. I had a 2018 with 3.73. That truck is extra thirsty…
Having owned and towed with F250 6.7 Powerstroke, F150 3.5 EccoBooost and a 2.5 PowerBoost the PowerBoost Hybrid is the best compromise. Yes, Towing my 7500-8000 lbs Travel Trailer it gets 7-9mpg at best, hit the mountains here in Idaho and it 4-6 mpg. On the other hand when not towing the 3.5 Powerboost makes up for its thirsty towing unlike 3.5 EccoBoost. IMHO the Hybrid version is even more Diesel like because of its non-towing mpg performance. And yes, by far the 6.7 PowerStoke was a wonderful tow rig but over kill for current towing frequency and situation.
With my trailer 16', 3,700 lb and in probable the windiest day I would never want to drive in, I was getting 28L/100km. As a daily commute I am getting 12.5L/100km city and highway in the GTA, if I bust open a 10hr trip on the highway with eco on and locked in at 105km I have consistently gotten 9.5L/100km (no towing). I'm driving a 2018 xlt 3.5 TT eco with supercab and 6.5 box.
I didn't realize when I bought my 2018 XLT 3.5 w/ 3.55 that towing mpgs would be that much worse than the coyote etc but at the same time, i tow so infrequently that when I do, I'd rather have the power at the expense of mpgs. I couldn't imagine myself going cross country w/ a trailer or anything like that with an f150. I've talked w/ the wife about future plans and realized if i was going to something heavy, frequently I'd have a 350 and 3rd wheel lol.
Yes...8 MPG avg with 3.5 EB with 3.55 4WD Axle mix driving...hills 6-7 MPG. Yes drinks fuel like a V8 when towing...but does Tow well 7K Travel Trailer.
Spent 5K on Summer Vacation just in fuel...from Oklahoma to Washington State then to So Cal then back to Oklahoma . Gas in the west coast was Avg $5 USD/ Gal
I wish Ford would make a small displacement V8 paired with a Roots or Twin screw supercharger. This would make everyone happy. A lot of people don’t like the Ecoboost because of the sound.
My setup: 2023 3.5L Ecoboost, 10 speed auto, 3.55 electric locking rear, 4WD, Supercrew, shortbed, all towing options including extended 36 gallon gas tank, towing 2023 Keystone Cougar 22MLSWE travel trailer with max GVWR 7,200 lbs. She's thirsty in the Arizona mountains putting down the power, but, it's relaxed towing at 2,800-ish rpm's climbing 6%+ grades rather than the old V8 downshifts and screaming above 4K+ rpm's. Flat towing in "Normal" mode still gets 10th gear on the Interstate (Tow Haul mode seems to keep her in 8th gear). Towing mpg ranges from 6.5 - 7.5 mpg in Tow Haul mode to 9 mpg in Normal mode (all from the display. I need to hand fill and calculate actual mileage for real accuracy). A little extra gas cost is fine with me while towing/camping, because, everyday driving/commuting mileage ramps right back up to over 20+ mpg unloaded. No diesel maintenance costs, no DEF hassle, and just cheap 87 Octane fuel with loads of 400 hp / 500 lb ft tq ready to go anytime seems like an overall win for this half-ton towing powerhouse. Cheers! Pete in Arizona - KI7LIL
I have a 2015 w 6 speed transmission, I tow a 30 Imagine travel trailer 700 mile trips and average 9.5 mpg at about 63mph. Have some high engine temps when it’s over 90 outside but staying in 4th gear sometimes 3rd on really long hills lowers temps to under 226. Not uncommon to see 239 temp from time to time.
At 6 mph, you’re almost better off renting a 3/4 ton when hauling long. I have the 3.5 eco with max tow. Great review! Good to know it can do. Did you have a weight distribution hitch?
I have a '19 F150 Eco 3.5 with the towing option and 3.55 gears which is a replacement for an '11 F350 CCLB diesel. That F350 was obviously a much better tow vehicle then the 150 can ever be. Fuel mileage towing a 12K plus fiver was in the 11-12 mpg traveling cross country in all conditions. Empty, 19-21mpg. I haven't towed much with the F150 but the open road gas mileage is no better then the 8360 pound F350 with the 6.7. What I don't miss with the 350 is the coat of fuel and standard regular maintenance plus the need to park that 22 foot long beast in the north forty due to turning radius. Since we sold the 5er, the F150 will do just fine for my needs. But I do miss that F350 after 13 fun years of ownership. Sighhh!
Got to say this. My 22 3.5l FX4 gets 23+ mpg in Eco mode on the hwy when not under tow. And I'm usually at or slightly over 80 mph. If you want great mpg under tow, get a diesel.
With any truck I’ve used for towing, I’ve always noticed a huge decrease in mpg while traveling on a wet highway. Extra friction on the tires, I guess.
when you were pulling that trailer where you using prem fuel or standard fuel. the eco boost runs best and gets the most hp with prem fuel. 91 or higher here in the states
Were you running 91 octane fuel like the owner manual states? It makes a big difference in the ecoboosts when towing because they're not pulling timing as much. Empty I run 87.
Nice test. I’d say the fuel mileage is right on point. I didn’t notice you complaining about sway or anything so that’s good. I think that’s a testament to this trailer being overall pretty short. Long enclosed trailers usually play havoc on half tons. The V8s are going to smoke it on fuel mileage. Not so much on performance though.
No truck and trailer were exceptional in terms of control. very comfortable tow. I think the V8's are going to suffer but as you said probably come out with much better mileage.
I really wish you would have shown the engine/tranny temps you were getting. My 19 ExMax towing a 7000 pound wake boat sees 250* engine and tranny going over the Rockies in Colorado. It also gets around 7 MPG towing at 70 MPH on those trips.
I have a ecoboost. The thing feels like it’s gonna die pulling my little 6x8 utility trailer with my lawn mower on it. My camper is gonna kill it one of these days, and it’s one of the ultra light aluminum frame campers. Only ways like 6000lbs I also don’t care what kinda helper springs or change out the leaf springs in general, there is now way it’s gonna pull 13,500lbs like it claims
I am looking to switch out of my 2020 F150 5.0 because it does seem to struggle when towing my pontoon up hill in Wisconsin. Wisconsin is very hilly and I need more power. Still torn between a diesel and Ford Twin Turbo or the Ram Hurricane.
"You get Eco or you get Boost, but you don't get both."
It takes fuel to make 500 lbs-ft torque.
@@blackericdeniceyes, but most half ton drivers don't need that much so it's a waste of $ in gas to chase a big number.
@@gebertgif they don't need that much they can baby it around and get decent mileage lol
@@gebertgyeah the HP and Torque wars kinda make things ridiculous. I mean we’re seeing half tons with near 600lb-ft. I’m sure it makes towing feel effortless but half tons really shouldn’t be towing or hauling too much. My older 5.0 has way more than I need, even doing well towing 8k lbs.
@gebertg when your not towing fuel economy isn't bad
After owning 2 3.5/10 speeds , it’s my belief that there’s nothing except the big 3s diesels after 2010 that can out pull these little monsters . Yes they devour fuel towing heavy . Both mine out pulled my tuned 8.1 and my tow tuned lb7 Duramax diesel . Anyone who doubts the towing power of these trucks has never pulled with one .
Couldn’t agree more. Pulled a camper thousands of miles with mine. Ended up getting a 250 because the newer camper was just to much for the size of the half ton. By far the best towing half ton. It’s really not close
I have pulled a few times with the expedition. I was very impressed with the power of 3.5 and the overall experience with the suspension set up on the expedition. Pulling about 6k lbs.
Yeah, my son-in-law's dad has a 2015 f250 6.7 power stroke. My 22 f150 3.5 eco out-tows it by like 2,000 lbs. It's unreal what that 3.5l does.
@@michaelfelt8940 yeah, that’s not really accurate tho. A 15 6.7 would destroy any year of 3.5.
@@kylechrestman6955 you pull a flippin camper? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 ruclips.net/user/shortsfQhNNL7hSsM?si=ItNUN8qeLO5dH8BT
They are thirsty but the hood towing experience makes it worth it to me and plus, most half ton owners only tow a couple times a month. Still waiting on the 2.7 test and if you can get a 3.5 with 3.55/3.73 I’d love to see a comparison or your thoughts. Looking forward to some more content
Appreciate it sir! really excited to get the 2.7L on the channel.
@@GettysGarage Can't wait to see the 5.0 and the 6.2 take on this new trailer and see how their mpg stacks up. Keep up the great videos man
I have a 2.7 ecoboost I use for general contractor work. I tow trailers multiple times a week. Dump trailer, equipment trailers. The motor has sooooo much power the suspension is the weak link. I added timbrens to the rear to help with sag. I have towed around 10,000 lbs multiple times(I try not to do that). But the engine can pull the load happily never going over 50% throttle. The 2.7 is far more capable than the chassis/suspension of the truck.
I have the 2019 F150 Lariat, with the Max Towing package. This past Fall, we pulled our 30 foot Keystone Cougar travel trailer with 2 slides (7,990 lbs empty, max of 9,500 lbs loaded) from upstate NY to Colorado. We used a ProPride 3P hitch to handle the weight and length of the trailer ... and were extremely pleased. While crossing the plains, we didn't really have any mountains or big hills to climb ... Upstate NY, PA, and Eastern Ohio probably had the most hills to deal with. This truck with the 3.55 rear end ratio, pulled like a champ ... I couldn't believe how great this engine pulls. Yes, the fuel economy sucked ... averaging 10.1 mpg on our way West, and 9.5 mpg heading back East. Other than my older F350's (2000 and 2005) with Powerstroke diesels, this truck was by far the best towing experience I've had with a 1/2 ton truck. I love it .... and Ford EcoBoost made me a believer!!
This is so good to read, just bought a 30' keystone 30ripr at just a little lighter weight. Have a 2018 f150 with max tow and am getting a great sway control wdh (not quite as great as the pro pride lol).
What’s ur payload on yellow sticker?
@@jcimswhat’s ur payload on yellow sticker?
@@Troll4youu I don't know, as I traded the F150 for a 2021 F350 King Ranch ... But I seem to recall the payload was around 1,900 lbs .... or something close to that.
Can’t wait to see the 2.7
Out of all the well made and informative towing videos out there, this is easily one of them!
Definitely one of the videos of all time 🙏
Thank you sir!
I have a 2021 max tow 6.5 foot bed with 3.55 gears and 3.5l eco. Max tow for my set up is 13,800lbs. I have a 2800bh GD travel trailer that weighs about 8k lbs and when towing my GCW is about 15k lbs. The trailer is about 11.5 ft tall, 8 ft wide and 32 ft long. Towing 4k miles so far and around 65mph with minimal hills generally gets me about 8.5 mpg. I haven’t hit a hill yet that I couldn’t gain speed if needed. I’m impressed with the setup.
2023 ecoboost, 3.55 rear end, FX4 towing 16' x 7' x 7' tandem axle box trailer 8 - 9 mpg towing 7,000# at 70 mph on the flat, happy to drop back to 60 in the mountains, keeps the revs down.
I can confirm that bad towing mileage with the 3.5 Ecoboost. I towed with a travel trailer and the extra surface area behind you really makes a difference. I recently traded that rig in for a F350 with a 7.3, and that big motor is better on gas while towing. Not the case while empty though.
What's ur average mpg with the 7.3 while not towing?
It shocked me how bad the mileage was. I think the V8's will be much better in terms of economy.
I think it would be interesting to see if the truck with 3.73's towing this trailer would do better on fuel economy.
That little 3.5l eco has more torque than the 7.3. No put-down of the 7.3, but dang that Ecoboost is just amazing.
@@GettysGarage do you plan on making a video pulling the same trailer and using the same roads with a 5.0?
I’ve been towing with my 2015 3.5 EB for 4 years now and my towing mileage average between my 9k pound travel trailer, my dump trailer and and small enclosed trailer is consistently in the 10-12 mpg range. Mine has the 3.31 gears and the six speed with a tune. It’s an amazing towing engine, I still smile when I put my foot on the accelerator. Great truck and awesome engine.
How's the reliability been with your 1st gen 3.5? I just had my coolant connectors and lines replaced on the turbos at 190,000 km. No issues with cam phasers or timing chain yet.
@@4fifty8 no problems but I’m only at 90k miles. But I send oil samples for analysis once a year and everything is always perfect. Engine is quiet and strong.
Happy with the 6spd? I’m looking at a 2017 with a 6spd and hesitant to pull the trigger and wait for a similar optioned 10spd.
@@scoby41 yes, love the 6 speed. I know the 10 speed is good but when I drove them back to back I didn’t like the 10 speed.
@@Wittyusername82 why didn’t you like the 10 spd trans?
I own a 2022 F350 6,7 and its unbelievable but if im pulling a boat or trailer 10,000lbs or less i prefer to use my 2016 f150 with 3,5 ecoboost. Mine has 120K miles on it and still as strong as day one.
I have the same cab/bed 2021 f150 5.0 with 3:31 gears. I pull a 26ft 6,500lb toy hauler camper and average 9.5mpg with it. Unloaded I get 22mpg. Never any issues with power up hills and seldom rev passed 4,000rpm. These new ford trucks are just incredible across the board.
My 2023 3.5 EcoBoost also drinks fuel when towing, I tow a smaller camper about 4,000 lbs, I use it most every weekend in the summer to announce at race tracks in my area, most trips are about 200 miles per weekend, I normally get 8.5 mpg to 10.4 mpg. My mileage before break-in was completed was lower, about 7 mpg, that really sucked. My previous truck, 2022 with the 2.7 was slightly easier on fuel pulling the same trailer, it did about 11.5 mpg maybe a bit more. I loved your video and the content, keep up the good work, I look forward to watching more.
Another video and another great review! Recent subscriber of the channel. Can’t wait to see the 2.7
I’ve got a 2018 3.5 ecoboost 4x4 crew cab 6.5 bed. My 5th wheel dry weight is 6000lbs, towing it this past summer to the lake approximately 100km each way, I was getting about 24-25L/100km, I was pretty happy about that.
2018 f160 2.7 ecoboost 301,000 miles inly work done has been a wheel bearing and 1 iwe. Amazing truck!
I own a 21 with the heavy duty payload package, Max towing package, 3.73 gears, payload is 2,500 lbs. I have towed my 28 ft, 7,500 lbs. travel trailer for over 5k miles and avg 8.5mpg. Speed is what kills when towing. I'm towing no faster than 65mph. Love my Eco-BEAST!
Ive had 4 different trucks with 3.5 ecobeast. Not one problem! And insane towing .with no trailer 19.7 mpg
Do you run super unleaded?
Towed 29' foot travel trailer loaded weight of approx 7,500 lbs + 1,000 lbs of truck cargo with 2017 F-150 3.5 Ecoboost w/3.55 axle from Pennsylvania to Wyoming to Arizona to Florida (6,000) miles averaged 9.5 mpg. I tracked mpg which was about .5mpg less than truck mpg indicator. Out west there are significant mountains to travel and never ever had a problem with maintaining speeds of 70+ mph even on steepest grades. I did use high test (91 octane) when towing. At times I would knock out 8,9 and 10 gears on steep grades to keep engine from lugging. Higher rpms (2,500 - 3000) would significantly reduce boost and engine temps. By doing this engine rarely got to above 200F degree during peak load. Otherwise truck would try to run at higher gears, higher boost, lower rpm and higher temps (20 - 30 degree higher).
When I first bought truck used at 37,000 miles the truck would run hot +226F degrees at times even when not towing. Prior to trip, replaced OEM 195 degree thermostat with racing 170 degree thermostat). Ford actually replaced early versions of 2nd gen thermostats' with different part number due to problems with originals sticking. Also replaced OEM intercooler with much larger one and removed electronic shudders. I also used Forscan to have engine and transmission actual temps displayed above normal gauges.
Hi there, I have a 2013 3.5... I need to upgrade my cooling system as well. What intercooler did you put in and are you happy with it?
That poor little engine.
Yah it does tow incredibly well. I use a 2016 Expedition with 6 speed. Mine has a colder tstat (175), bigger inner cooler, and 5star tow tune, tow mirrors, HD custom rear springs and Bilstein 5100. It basically just tugs our 28' 7800 pound trailer down the road in similar fashion. My normal MPG is around 8 mpg pre AirTabs. It will average down to 7.4-8 if there are far more hills then flat. Aerodynamics are way more important then weight at highway speed. I've added these things called AirTabs to the side of my trailer and it improved stability and increased my MPG to around 8.7-9 now. It improved the aero enough that it keeps gears better in my 6 speed. I also tow no faster then 65. There is actually a pretty decent sweet spot at 60-63 (gears, aero, mpg). You traveling at 68 mph will drop MPG quite a lot, but I have never seen that low. It may have to do with the hills.
I would of LOVED 8mpg I don't know why it was so bad. I'm gonna take the trailer into the shop and pull the wheels and checked bearings and brakes. I wonder if something is dragging. Very interesting about the Airtabs. maybe I'll look into them! Ideally I'd like to travel around 65mph but the speed limit on these roads is 68 (110km) so I like to at least doing the speed limit.
Can you share the links to the tow mirrors, HD custom rear springs and Bilstein 5100? I have a 16 navigator and would be interested in upgrading these items.
@@marioferretti5431 Also with these shocks you can still do a lift with them and dial it in to where you want. I set mine to be raked and it is 100% perfect. I did pre and post install measurements. Did the rears first and dialed that in. And then did the front. I recall either stock or slight lift in the front. My Expedition looks lifted compared to all others on the road that are stock. It rides firm, like a HD truck, but it is still fine. It doesn't wallow at all. It's also my tow rig not my daily. Oh one more thing, when you set your WDH hitch make sure you get as close to zero lift on the front axle, in other words returning as close to 100% of the weight as you can.
@@marioferretti5431 If you want the tune, IC, and tstat you can get those from 5startuning. The IC was Wagner Tuning. Oh and I used the SCT X4 tuner. I use an app called Torque and watch all my boost, temps, etc closely on my phone. That was how I determined I was having cooling issues related to the IC.
@@malifestro3319 Do you have a link to the tow mirrors?
'22 ecoboost with 3.31 gears. My father and I towed our 16x8.5 enclosed with probably 1000lbs of furniture and stuff loaded. Hauled it from North Carolina to Ohio. We ended with approx 8mpg. Practically the entire trip, we took it out of tow/haul and changed gears manually to get the best mileage. With such a long trip, it really matters how you drive. We determined that pulling any load will pretty much result in the same fuel economy.
Really would like to see this same test with 3.5 powerboost and 3.73.
When we moved to Alaska, my wife and I were towing equal size and weight trailers. Her in her EcoBoost expedition and me in my Godzilla super duty. I was consistently getting three to five MPG better than her in my Godzilla. Over 3,000 miles, that really added up
How would you compare the 2 engines pulling similar trailers?
@@Jeff-bd2kq the Godzilla definitely pulled harder. Very similar feeling with both though, with torque production starting way low. It's hard to compare just engines with two very different rigs and different transmissions.
That's pretty wild. the Godzilla with over twice the displacement yet getting better mileage lol
@@GettysGarage *towing
@@GettysGarage Doesn't seem too surprising. At 14.7 lbs of boost the motor is effectively 7.0 liters.
I just need it to two cars for my project cars and an alright sized camper for camping and daily stuff
This engine and set up sound practically perfect for my use
Hi Getty, I appreciate your review. There are way too many auto journalists with channels.
I appreciate mechanics like yourself doing technical reviews.
Can you do a technical review of the f150 and sierra in the lift? Suspension, oil pan, trans pan, differentials, transfer case, turbo design, cooling design, cooling, etc.
Similar to what Car Care Nut does for the Tundra...
Tia.
Thank you sir! I can certainly look into doing some videos like that!
This guy did a great job doing a technical review of the Tundra. I'm including here to give you some ideas of topics to potentially cover for an F150 and Sierra review.
"The Car Care Nut : 2022 Toyota Tundra Technical Review - Everything You Need to Know".
TIA
I have a 2011 f150 ecoboost. The trailer I’ve towed for the last 8 years, weighted 3 - 4 k and I was getting, beat case scenario, 10 mpg but when I first picked up the trailer and driving 150 miles home. I was getting just under 7 mpg. This was under strong winds and going 75. I learned since then it’s best to tow 60 - 65 mph. No power issues, great power no matter if towing up a big hill or level surface.
I now have a new trailer the weights over 5k. I’ll be interested to see if I have any power issues in the mountains. I recently had 2 times over the last 5 months where I questioned if I might be having a turbo issue. On Friday, the shop said one of the turbo’s shaft is loose or too much play and suggested having it replaced (87,000 miles)
Excellent power with the ecoboost. For about the last year, I switched to a mid grade fuel and am pleased with better fuel economy, mixed driving - 18 mpg. I’ll also like to see with a new turbo and planned change of spark plugs and coil packs if I’ll see any difference in operations of the truck.
As far as this video, sure the 8k is within the towable limits, but I wonder if the tongue weight, allows the truck to stay within the payload capacity of the truck? I’d say an f250 is better suitable for an 8k load.
I appreciate your camera view. I could clearly see both the gauges and the terrain ahead. I suspect your mpg's would have been slightly better on a dry surface.
It tows well but mine stayed in the shop more than I drove it. My 5.0l has been flawless.
the 5L is a wonderful engine. regardless it is cool to see the Eco boost in action.
I had a 16' 3.5L EB with 3.73 ratio and suicide doors. Used it to tow almost every week and usually had about 8-9 mpg average.
Like most others are saying you get Eco or you get Boost but not both
Traded up for a diesel and honestly they two feel very similar when towing, but the economy in a diesel is exponentially better....
I get 12.5-13.0 Mph in my eco boost 3.5 towing a Nash 17c RV that’s pretty heavy for Its size. I was impressed towing it in the mountains of Alaska
Trailer looks amazing!! So excited for you and the growth of the channel !!
Turbos always help with towing and hill climbing. Boost is magic lol. Out of curiosity, what did your power wagon get towing that trailer home, if you remember. I haven't gotten a chance to tow with my 17 power wagon yet but I'm excited to strap a trailer on her.
People in my opinion expect way too much from 1/2 ton pickups. I have the the 3.5 ecoboost also, and it is a power house....however I certainly would NOT pull around an 8 to 10K trailer on a frequent basis. It will do it with relative ease, however you'll pay for it. The beauty of this truck is the fact that it will do it without the drama of a 5.0, 5.3 or even a 6.2 V8 screaming down the road at 5000rpm. And when my 3.5 isn't towing a trailer that a Super Duty should be pulling it gets great MPGs.
What does it get mpg not towing?
@@KT_keeper I averaged 21 mpg going from Iowa to Alaska.
very much agree. if you are consistently towing 10k you need an HD truck. the half tons aren't built for it. They can certainly do it safely but they will not hold up like an HD truck.
@@KT_keeperthe response was pretty decent mileage however my fuel experience is not as great, while my truck is a 2011 ecoboost, and the window sticker showed 21 mpg. Only twice in the 13 years have I got 21 mpg, usually I was getting 15 mpg. Since last year, I’ve started to use 87 octane fuel vs the 85 (reg, not E85) and I’ve started to see 18, maybe 19 mpg.
The Ford 3.5 Ecoboost motor has been out since 2010 and has proved itself worthy as a truck motor capable of hauling heavy loads and being relatively reliable. No matter the motor you choose. Each engine is more then capable of handling truck duties and being relatively reliable. Ford's nowadays is the leader in engine development and these motors are a testament to that 🤙🏼🇺🇲
Appreciate the repeatable parameters to your observations
That's the goal! Without good comparisons they are just random numbers.
Do you plan on doing this same test with 7.3 gas motor? @@GettysGarage
I own a f150 2023 poerboost towing a 30ft travel trailer. The truck definitely gets like 5 to 7 when climbing or heavy head winds. Normal stretches on freeway are up to 10, but I also do around 75 mph. Anyway, your comment resonates as some areas you feel like you are stopping every 3 hours and paying attention to where the next gas station is. That said, it tows like a dream.
The EB is tuned rich from the factory to lower combustion temperatures. The intercooler is undersized. I'm not into tunning my DD but I've heard a tune and larger intercooler will make them tow even better and give you a few mpg.
With heavy loads around 8-10k, I usually get 8-10 mpg in my 2020 3.5. Never got 6 with anything. The wind resistance must have been brutal with that trailer.
With an 7500 lb travel trailer I averaged between 5-6 mpg with my Ecoboost (3:55 rear axle). Wind resistance is real which is why travel trailers can't be viewed the same as towing a flatbed trailer. Night and day difference.
@@jerry-381dang that’s pretty low. I’ve seen people in the 7-8 range before but even 15%+ lower than that is brutal. My 5.0 did 10.1 towing an 8k toy hauler round trip in some gnarly 40mph winds. And I thought that was fairly bad lol.
@@ALMX5DP yeah it is low but to my point that's what happens when you factor in wind drag and a long trailer length. It makes a huge difference not only in fuel mileage but in handling abilities in the truck that towing numbers doesn't reflect. This is why I maintain tow rating numbers for half ton trucks don't apply at all to towing travel trailers.
@@jerry-381 true, and yeah I think most half tons (I know for sure F-150) have trailer frontal area stipulations in the owners manual. It’s kinda ridiculous that trailer size or profile are not considered in the SAE J2807 for tow ratings. I think most get their ratings via a flatbed with flat steel plates. Very different to a 10’ tall travel trailer like you said.
The wind and rain/snow probably didn't help
Holy Moly, my old Deuce and Half used to get 40L/100KM. Thanks for the video. Cheers!
LOL I know it hurt the wallet!
I have a 2020 and 3.5 L EcoBoost. I pull a 2022 Grand Design 265bh. This is a 32 ft camper mid 6000 lb range. I get between 8 and 9 Mi per gallon in Indiana pulling it around. Absolutely love the power of this engine. Most V8 gas will get about the same pulling the same camper.
Indiana myself. Just put a deposit on a 2021 Ecoboost model. My tacoma (as much as I love it for hunting and such) just is not doing well pulling my side by side or small enclosed trailer. The room of of the cabin is greater as well. Having a 9 yr old son who is already 5’4”, I know its only a matter of time before the Tacoma will not be feasible for a family of 4. There is really no way we could comfortably take a trip in the Tacoma of any distance, it just does not have the interior room. I wouldn’t even try to hook a camper up to my Taco…
I have a 2022 3.5L EcoBoost and it never fails, the moment I hook up my (under) 8klb travel trailer, the trucks MPG is about 5-7mpg. Its been a process to get the weight distribution system just right so there is no sway in the cab of the truck too - no sway in the trailer, just slight sliding feel up front - even when the trailer is unloaded.
I got 12-13 mpg towing an 8500 lb RV from Central Florida to Southeastern Alabama in my 2013 F150 with the ecoboost. 350 miles +/- 1/2 freeway, half hills at 45 +/- mph.
I've got a 2018 STX with the tire package and 3.5L EcoBoost. We towed our 35' camping trailer through the mountains around South Carolina and down to Florida and back without issues concerning power. We averaged about 7.3 gallons, flat Florida helps. I don't think I had the trailer breaking set right since my rear brake pads needed to be replaced afterwards. This truck is FAST. I spin rubber if I floor it in the Sport mode. Very fast and great performance. Not happy with the wind noise though.
I have a ‘17 3.5eb and I used to get 19mpg bone stock. I added 33” ko2’s, cold air intake, 2” level and now get 17.8mpg. But I also have 3.55 gears.
I have a 2023 3.5 L with the 3.55 rear Max Tow and pull a 26ft 6500lb TT. It would stay mostly stay under 2k RPM at 65mph even up hills. A big head wind (25-30 mph) I got 6.5 to 7mpg. But without that big head win I got 8-9.5 mpg. The 3.31 rearend makes a difference.
I pulled a 30 foot 7,000# camper from Missouri to Connecticut through the Pennsylvania hills with my old 2020 RAM 1500 with 3.21s and I averaged 9mpg. Yes the 5.7 HEMI did downshift on every hill, but the mpg was much better than what you are seeing.
Hemi doesn’t compete with the 3.5 Ecoboost stock for stock and even more so when you throw a grand into the mix for a handheld and a tune. Hemi is louder tho, which I loved when I was young - but the older I get, the quieter I love my power plants in the trucks I drive. In the north east, I would take an aluminum body any day over steel. Main reason why I left GM products. Hemi or GMs EcoTec with Borla Atak does sound great tho.
That's very respectable mileage! The Hemi with that 8 speed does tow very well. and yes probably higher RPM but still very capable!
@@bigf1502 .Hemi isn't really quieter,the 6 cyl Ford is noisy ,just different sounds.Ford sounds like a kid in a Civic 4cyl...Add the tuner with the Hemi it eats the Eco-Boost..
Remember the EcoBoost added power over the years while the Hemi didnt,the ecoBoost just in recent years was quicker than the Hemi..
Chrysler should have added Turbo's to the 5.7 then it would be a total beast,oh wait they sor tof did the 800hp Hellcat 6.2 Hemi is actually a stronger 5.7.
Ford trucks still rust,their frames the body in aluminum is wimpier than the steel version..There is a crash test showing a Aluminum F150 vs steel f150 and the aluminum version crumbled in the same crash! Thing is it took Ford 2 years to improve the Aluminum F150 but only for crash tests as they know where they test..They reinforced the Aluminum F150 with steel the body still is wimpy and they crumble easily but the underside reinforced for crash tests(watch the video you will crap yourself its that bad)..You also can cut the panels of a F150-250-350 with a butter knife! Aluminum is wimpy!.The body still is wimpier than steel and you dont rust you still have deterioration,they pit.
You're going to need a lot more than 20 HP from a tuner to out run or out pull the Ecoboost. I've owned three Rams with the Hemi, the last a 2020 with 3.92s and while it was a great truck it had nothing on the 5.0 and certainly not the 3.5 Ecoboost. @@mypronouniswtf5559
@@mypronouniswtf5559 Hemi stock vs Ecoboost stock AND/OR Hemi tuned vs Ecoboost tuned is definitely not more powerful than Ecoboost. Lol. They did not reinforce the aluminum F150 with a steel body. Frames on the Fords are all steel, and always have been- just the body is aluminum. Aluminum doesn’t crumple - it rips. I’m a metallurgist bud. Yes, the 15/16 aluminum body F150s had bad crash test ratings - why they added the crash bars in front and behind the front wheels. You have no idea what you’re talking about. You need forged internals to keep a 5.7 together when boosted more than 8psi. Check out incredible hemi RUclips channel. Only way a Hemi can beat a tuned ecoboost is by adding boost to the hemi - and you’ll need forged internals to make it hold up.
Great review! How about a Tundra review?
Id probably install RAS road active suspension if I were towing often it always makes towing easier
Wow... that mileage!! Impressive that it toes so well... but towing my travel trailer (similar weight) with my half ton (not a ford) my mileage was quite a bit better. Doesn't quite have the same snap though! I'd still love to see you get your hands on a F150 Powerboost for a similar test
2021 3.5 FX4 36 GAL TANK, I get down in the 7 mpg range when towing my toy hauler (7,000 pounds) in the mountains and over 11 mpg on flat ground and no head wind...at around 65mph.
God these mechanic reviews are the bees knees
The only 1/2 ton pickup I have heard to also tow quite well is GM's LZ0 diesel. Would love to see a comparison to Ford 3.5 Ecoboost
Aerodynamics plays huge role in MPG, when I pull my reffer with my semi I get 5.5, if I have my flat bed with 48k of rebar I get 6.8
Great video Alex. I really like the ecoboost, and we have a 21 expedition with it and has been a champ. However i still prefer that turbo (or maybe even twinsies) pushin air into a big oil burner instead.
Have you done the new 6.8 super duty’s yet? Or the 6.6 gas with 10 speed in the 2024 silverado hds? New Tundra?
Just ideas
Awesome video man!!! I'm looking forward to some more with this trailer being towed, definitely a good comparison to pulling a travel trailer. That engine is a beast but I definitely wouldn't sacrifice my wallet for that performance lol, it would make me cry every time I would tow with it. I would need alot of clean X's lol😅
I’d like to see an how a upgraded intercooler and a higher flowing exhaust would affect mpg. If you can feed cooler air under load into the engine and also reduce back pressure on the turbo outlet which means less power wasted pushing exhaust out and more power actually getting to the crankshaft.
I usually get 8 to 10 mpg. Live in utah with 7500 lb toy hauler. Lots of mountain passes here. Best truck I've ever had, i dont stress. Just change the oil at 50% oil life and you should be good. Let your turbos cool down at idle after working them
You must have had alot of wind that day. The only time i have gotten that bad fuel economy was pulling into strong winds
Last weekend I towed my 7500lb travel trailer (10 ft tall, 32' long) 150 miles and got 8mpg. 2021 F150 Ecoboost.
I wonder if something is dragging on the trailer. doesn't make sense to me with all the folks like you telling me what mileage you are getting.
I pull 8050 # TT with my stock 13 screw (rated 11200). Keeping the speed at 60 MPH I get 8-10 with the E rated KO2s along the northern I-5 and western part of Wa State. 36 gal fuel tank is nice except when I top it off.
I’m pulling similar trailer with 5.7 Ram 1500 here in Alberta.
Highway 1 gives me around 29-30 l/100 km at 120-130 mph
I couldn't believe how much fuel it was burning lol
I tow a 7k splice trailer almost daily, I have a 2018 3.5 Platinum I around Denver I get about 12.3 mpg. Looking at buying a 2024 soon
Great test. You can have either Eco or Boost, but not both!
lol So they say!
You can get both eco and boost with hybrid. Love mine have the same size trailer and it just moves it effortlessly!!!
The new Tundra proves your theory wrong. That mileage on those is atrocious.
Keep in mind the amount of energy needed to move X lbs of weight is the same regardless of the power source! With a stronger engine, the transient response of going uo a hill or accelerating may be better than an engine running right at its limit!
I bought an F150 with the coyote engine and just ordered the On 3 single turbo kit.
Man, towing my 34’ 9000# TT across Washington state through passes and heinous winds I got around 8-9 mpg at 70-75. That was after 5 or more round trips. I think the 3.31 is the culprit. I had a 2018 with 3.73. That truck is extra thirsty…
How did that truck do without a trailer on the highway with the 3.73’s
@@stevebo9553 typically low 20’s. All depends on speed. Best I ever got was 24, but generally right around 20.
I tow 5500 lbs and get an overall average of exactly 10 MPG. Handling is outstanding, power is crazy good.
Having owned and towed with F250 6.7 Powerstroke, F150 3.5 EccoBooost and a 2.5 PowerBoost the PowerBoost Hybrid is the best compromise. Yes, Towing my 7500-8000 lbs Travel Trailer it gets 7-9mpg at best, hit the mountains here in Idaho and it 4-6 mpg. On the other hand when not towing the 3.5 Powerboost makes up for its thirsty towing unlike 3.5 EccoBoost. IMHO the Hybrid version is even more Diesel like because of its non-towing mpg performance. And yes, by far the 6.7 PowerStoke was a wonderful tow rig but over kill for current towing frequency and situation.
With my trailer 16', 3,700 lb and in probable the windiest day I would never want to drive in, I was getting 28L/100km. As a daily commute I am getting 12.5L/100km city and highway in the GTA, if I bust open a 10hr trip on the highway with eco on and locked in at 105km I have consistently gotten 9.5L/100km (no towing). I'm driving a 2018 xlt 3.5 TT eco with supercab and 6.5 box.
Great video. Very informative thank you
Hi Alex I would love to see a Mega Cab Dually Cummins HO 4x4 tow that trailer. It would probably make you go to sleep. Lol!! Great Video!!
Your pulling up hills/ I think that's about right . I'm pulling a 8990. 5th wheel I get about 10 miles to the mile .I love my f/150 tween turbo
I didn't realize when I bought my 2018 XLT 3.5 w/ 3.55 that towing mpgs would be that much worse than the coyote etc but at the same time, i tow so infrequently that when I do, I'd rather have the power at the expense of mpgs. I couldn't imagine myself going cross country w/ a trailer or anything like that with an f150. I've talked w/ the wife about future plans and realized if i was going to something heavy, frequently I'd have a 350 and 3rd wheel lol.
I have a 2019 3.5 max town 3,55 towing a 26 foot toyhauler with a rzr in it about 9k is weight get 7-10 mpg going to glamis.
Just can't go back to a gasser for towing after owning diesels. Great job on your reviews. You've found your niche. 😉
I guess you haven’t towed with a 3.5?
I have a 2009 duramax and the ecoboost is right there with it towing.
Thank you sir! But I will say if you ever get the chance to tow with an ecoboost, you may be surprised how similar it feels to a diesel.
Yes...8 MPG avg with 3.5 EB with 3.55 4WD Axle mix driving...hills 6-7 MPG. Yes drinks fuel like a V8 when towing...but does Tow well 7K Travel Trailer.
I would LOVE 8mpg. That run cost me almost 150 bucks in fuel
Spent 5K on Summer Vacation just in fuel...from Oklahoma to Washington State then to So Cal then back to Oklahoma . Gas in the west coast was Avg $5 USD/ Gal
I wish Ford would make a small displacement V8 paired with a Roots or Twin screw supercharger. This would make everyone happy. A lot of people don’t like the Ecoboost because of the sound.
I agree, an updated 4.6 or 4.3 V8 with twin turbos would be amazing!
My setup: 2023 3.5L Ecoboost, 10 speed auto, 3.55 electric locking rear, 4WD, Supercrew, shortbed, all towing options including extended 36 gallon gas tank, towing 2023 Keystone Cougar 22MLSWE travel trailer with max GVWR 7,200 lbs. She's thirsty in the Arizona mountains putting down the power, but, it's relaxed towing at 2,800-ish rpm's climbing 6%+ grades rather than the old V8 downshifts and screaming above 4K+ rpm's. Flat towing in "Normal" mode still gets 10th gear on the Interstate (Tow Haul mode seems to keep her in 8th gear). Towing mpg ranges from 6.5 - 7.5 mpg in Tow Haul mode to 9 mpg in Normal mode (all from the display. I need to hand fill and calculate actual mileage for real accuracy). A little extra gas cost is fine with me while towing/camping, because, everyday driving/commuting mileage ramps right back up to over 20+ mpg unloaded. No diesel maintenance costs, no DEF hassle, and just cheap 87 Octane fuel with loads of 400 hp / 500 lb ft tq ready to go anytime seems like an overall win for this half-ton towing powerhouse. Cheers! Pete in Arizona - KI7LIL
It's only 375 with 87 octane, you need premium for the 400 rating
I have a 2015 w 6 speed transmission, I tow a 30 Imagine travel trailer 700 mile trips and average 9.5 mpg at about 63mph. Have some high engine temps when it’s over 90 outside but staying in 4th gear sometimes 3rd on really long hills lowers temps to under 226. Not uncommon to see 239 temp from time to time.
At 6 mph, you’re almost better off renting a 3/4 ton when hauling long. I have the 3.5 eco with max tow. Great review! Good to know it can do.
Did you have a weight distribution hitch?
That engine light at 11:00 😳
I have a '19 F150 Eco 3.5 with the towing option and 3.55 gears which is a replacement for an '11 F350 CCLB diesel. That F350 was obviously a much better tow vehicle then the 150 can ever be. Fuel mileage towing a 12K plus fiver was in the 11-12 mpg traveling cross country in all conditions. Empty, 19-21mpg. I haven't towed much with the F150 but the open road gas mileage is no better then the 8360 pound F350 with the 6.7. What I don't miss with the 350 is the coat of fuel and standard regular maintenance plus the need to park that 22 foot long beast in the north forty due to turning radius. Since we sold the 5er, the F150 will do just fine for my needs. But I do miss that F350 after 13 fun years of ownership. Sighhh!
What is the payload on this truck? And what’s that trailer tongue weight? I’m having problems finding this truck with payload over 1800
This is the question nobody is asking. Payload is the limiting factor on 1/2-ton trucks in a normal situation such as camping with family.
What was the grades on the steepest hill you were on. Around here it's 8 to 9% . Thanks for the videos
Got to say this. My 22 3.5l FX4 gets 23+ mpg in Eco mode on the hwy when not under tow. And I'm usually at or slightly over 80 mph. If you want great mpg under tow, get a diesel.
With any truck I’ve used for towing, I’ve always noticed a huge decrease in mpg while traveling on a wet highway. Extra friction on the tires, I guess.
when you were pulling that trailer where you using prem fuel or standard fuel. the eco boost runs best and gets the most hp with prem fuel. 91 or higher here in the states
I had a 6.4L hemi 2500... That would only get around 4 MPG when towing my camper on the interstate.
That truck was on my list for my new tow rig,what did you move into? Better?
@@robmd3851It was a '14 and had it for about 4 months before I gave up... I moved to a '15 Cummins, and now I am in a '18 Duramax.
My 3.5 F150 CrewCab got 16 mpg towing a 5,000 lb car trailer 300 miles.
I’ve had to replace the cam phasers twice and now have to replace both turbos. All before 80k miles. I haven’t been happy with mine
What year?
2018
Were you running 91 octane fuel like the owner manual states? It makes a big difference in the ecoboosts when towing because they're not pulling timing as much. Empty I run 87.
It's a rental, the tank is full to begin with so highly likely just garbage pump gas. BUT I run 87 on every engine with exception to the 6.2L
I’ll have to buy one in about a year from now
never a bad idea!
Nice test. I’d say the fuel mileage is right on point. I didn’t notice you complaining about sway or anything so that’s good. I think that’s a testament to this trailer being overall pretty short. Long enclosed trailers usually play havoc on half tons.
The V8s are going to smoke it on fuel mileage. Not so much on performance though.
No truck and trailer were exceptional in terms of control. very comfortable tow. I think the V8's are going to suffer but as you said probably come out with much better mileage.
I really wish you would have shown the engine/tranny temps you were getting. My 19 ExMax towing a 7000 pound wake boat sees 250* engine and tranny going over the Rockies in Colorado. It also gets around 7 MPG towing at 70 MPH on those trips.
Would like to see this test with the Powerboost.
I tow about the same daily 12mpg 5.9 Cummins pace journey se enclosed 7ft height 7k typically 350k on her so far minimal issues.
I have a ecoboost. The thing feels like it’s gonna die pulling my little 6x8 utility trailer with my lawn mower on it.
My camper is gonna kill it one of these days, and it’s one of the ultra light aluminum frame campers. Only ways like 6000lbs
I also don’t care what kinda helper springs or change out the leaf springs in general, there is now way it’s gonna pull 13,500lbs like it claims
I am looking to switch out of my 2020 F150 5.0 because it does seem to struggle when towing my pontoon up hill in Wisconsin. Wisconsin is very hilly and I need more power. Still torn between a diesel and Ford Twin Turbo or the Ram Hurricane.
Why don’t any auto makers put a turbo on a big gasser for the 3/4 and 1 tons?