Towing a ZR-1, how much towing capacity?

[bdw18_123]

I've got a '97 F-150 single-cab, flareside with the 4.6L Triton V8 and a 5-speed manual tranny. It's also got a 6" lift on 35" tires. I've towed many cars with it (including my ZR-1 from Laguna Beach, CA to Fresno, CA) and even a loaded 22ft toyhauler all the way to Pismo one time.

Never had any major problems, it's the most reliable vehicle I've ever had considering what I've put it through. The biggest job (other than normal maintenance) I've ever had to do on it engine-wise is replace the power steering pump. And it's got 138K on it.

[lbszr]

I've been happy with the 02, 4wd, ext cab, 5.3, 3.73, 1500. It has 88000 miles (knock on wood) and has only needed the tailgate cables and rear brake pads, and a battery.

It's towed about 4000 miles with Z on an open trailer, about 6200 lbs, and about 15000 miles with a 3200 lb boat on the back. The roads in ohio, indiana and michigan, it can cruise about 70 in overdrive for about 80% of the time, turning about 2100 rpm on the interstates and feels effortless, more in the power band if you go faster though, but the ticket wouldn't be fun.

The bigger hills it needs to be in 3rd but still really isn't working, (like tennessee Jeleco mountain with the 3200 lbs), but the rpms still don't go above 3000, unless your in a hurry. Also with air on and 95 degrees, engine temp stays the same whether it's 95 or -10.

16.5 Mpg normally.

If the main purpose was towing, think I would get the 2500, or 3500. Then it would be effortless all the time.

[Kevin]

i know it's a bit of a drive but jim price chevy here in charlottesville is doing 0% apr on 1500 4wd crew cabs