What is included in a factory tow package?
A factory tow package is a set of features and components that are factory-installed in a vehicle to enhance its towing capabilities. This package is designed to provide the necessary equipment and support for safely and effectively towing a trailer or other load behind the vehicle.
Key Components of a Factory Tow Package
The specific components included in a factory tow package can vary depending on the vehicle make, model, and manufacturer, but typically include the following:
- Towing Hitch: A heavy-duty towing hitch, often a Class III or IV hitch, is installed to provide a secure connection point for the trailer or load.
- Wiring Harness: A dedicated wiring harness is included to power the trailer's lights, brakes, and other electrical systems, ensuring proper and safe operation.
- Cooling System Upgrades: The vehicle's cooling system may be upgraded to handle the additional load and prevent overheating during towing.
- Suspension Upgrades: The suspension components, such as springs, shocks, and stabilizers, may be reinforced or upgraded to provide better support and stability when towing.
- Transmission Cooler: A transmission cooler may be included to help maintain the proper operating temperature of the transmission, which can be affected by the additional load of towing.
- Larger Alternator: A larger alternator may be installed to provide the necessary electrical power to support the additional load of the trailer and its accessories.
- Trailer Brake Controller: Some factory tow packages include a pre-wired trailer brake controller, allowing for easy installation of a brake controller to control the trailer's brakes.
These components work together to ensure the vehicle can safely and effectively tow a trailer or other load, while also providing the necessary support and functionality to maintain the vehicle's performance and reliability.
Benefits of a Factory Tow Package
Opting for a factory tow package offers several benefits compared to aftermarket towing upgrades:
- Integrated Design: The components in a factory tow package are designed and engineered to work seamlessly together, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with the vehicle.
- Warranty Coverage: Factory-installed tow packages are typically covered under the vehicle's warranty, providing peace of mind and protection against any issues that may arise.
- Improved Towing Capacity: The upgraded components in a factory tow package can significantly increase the vehicle's towing capacity, allowing for the safe and reliable towing of heavier loads.
- Enhanced Safety: The additional safety features, such as the trailer brake controller and cooling system upgrades, help to ensure a safer towing experience.
Overall, a factory tow package is a comprehensive and integrated solution that can provide a seamless and reliable towing experience for vehicle owners who need to tow trailers or other loads regularly.
Does Ford tow package increase towing capacity?
Increased Towing Capacity and Payload: Tow heavier loads with confidence. The Tow/Haul Package boosts the max towing capacity, allowing you to haul up to the maximum weight each engine can handle when properly equipped.
How do I know if my truck has a factory tow package?
How Do You Know If Your Vehicle Has a Tow Package Installed? If you don't see a trailer hitch or receiver on your rear bumper, that is a good sign you don't have a towing package.
Is factory tow package better than aftermarket?
Aftermarket Tow Package
Some aftermarket tow hitches are better and stronger than factory-installed ones, which makes them a good option for towing extremely heavy loads. Also, an aftermarket tow package tends to be more basic than a factory tow package.
Is a tow package the same as a trailering package?
The Chevrolet Tow Package, known as the Trailering Package, provides everything you need for towing.
What is a factory towing package?
A factory tow package includes components from the vehicle's original equipment manufacturer (OEM). These parts are make-model specific, which means they're a guaranteed fit for your vehicle. In most cases, a factory tow package includes a tow hitch and several mechanical and electrical upgrades.
What is the difference between a tow hitch and a tow package?
The tow hitch is the part of the vehicle that provides the connection point for towing a trailer or other loads. On the other hand, a tow package is a comprehensive set of features and components that a vehicle manufacturer offers to enhance its towing capabilities.
What is usually included in a towing package?
Basic Tow Package: Often found on smaller vehicles or crossovers, this might include a hitch, wiring for trailer lights, and minimal engine or cooling system upgrades.
What is included in the tow technology package?
Tow packages also include the following: Wiring that connects the trailer to the lighting system of the automobile or truck. Upgrades to the suspension and brakes. Drivetrain upgrades such as a better transmission.
What is the average towing fee?
The national average cost of a tow is around $109, but rates may vary, and you should expect to pay between $2.50 and $7 per mile. Various elements affect this cost, and there are different methods for cost calculation.
How much does it cost to have a tow package installed?
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Trailer Hitch?
Trailer Hitch | Hitch Cost | Total Installation Cost Including Hitch Cost |
---|---|---|
Receiver Hitch | $100-$550 | $400-$1,230 |
Gooseneck Hitch | $380-$600 | $680-$1,280 |
5th Wheel Hitch | $800-$1,500 | $1,100-$2,180 |