Heat is the single biggest killer of transmissions and engines, one the most important things for towing is proper heat dissipation. 250 Fahrenheit will kill your transmission in a matter of 2 minutes, that fluid will be breaking down fast. My current ‘07 has the Heavy Duty trailer tow package, my last Expedition did not. The bigger trans cooler, bigger radiator, 7 pin hookup, trailer brake controller etc are all extra costs someone may not want to incur if they won’t use it to tow so it’s not standard. They try and keep the price down. 3rd gens without the option also rated for 6,000 pounds, and 9,200 pounds with it. Still need bars when you get past 600 tongue weight. The F-150 really can‘t tow 13,000 pounds like the ads say, try it! It can accelerate ok but beyond that the handling just isn’t there, the braking and control are sub-par for that load. You will be much more comfortable in a 3/4 ton with the longer wheelbase, stouter springs, bigger brakes, and big displacement V8 (engine braking). The 3/4 ton works less and runs cooler.....and the camper or whatever 32’ trailer back there isn’t a tail wagging the dog.
