Ford's ultimate trailer tow package

[RichnYvonne]

Hi All, I'm looking to trade in my current truck and I'm wondering if Ford's Ultimate Tow package with the backup camera assist is worth the extra money or not. Does anyone have this option and do you like it?

[BillandCarole]

The camera package was an essential element of our new truck order. My only disappointment is that the add on trailer camera will not work when rolling forward. We want to know what is coming up behind us and what is in our blind spot directly behind us. I have be unpleasantly surprised to learn that vehicles were lurking there. "Is someone back there?" Often we can't tell.
Bill

[hawkeye-08]

When I got my 2011 GMC, I thought the backup camera was nice, but the small picture in the rear view mirror is just too small (I did not get the fancy entertainment package that included 5" video used for backup camera and navigation).

My wife's Tahoe (we bought used) came with larger video screen and is very nice for seeing behind vehicle when backing up.. I almost swapped my truck system to one like her Tahoe, but the cost is higher than I am willing to pay.

[Fordlover]

I have the Ultimate trailer tow package on my 2018 Super duty. The truck has 7 total cameras if you opt for the customer mounted camera on the back of the trailer. There are 5 cameras with various views around the truck as you mentioned, and one high mount behind the rear view that I believe is for the lane departure or auto high beams or some other feature.

I'm glad I opted for the feature, it's pretty helpful, especially when negotiating in tight spaces.

[Acdii]

I think the Ultimate tow package is for the Superduty trucks and has 5 cameras. The F150 has the 360* camera system, but not for towing. The two share the same 4 cameras, front rear and doors, but the Ultimate package has a 5th camera pointing down into the bed for 5th wheel/gooseneck hitching.

"Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System includes Rear View Camera, 360 degree camera system*, rear CHMSL camera, trailer reverse guidance, and LED center high-mounted stop lamp. Display in center stack screen. Standard in Super Duty® Limited. Available for all other Super Duty models.

Requires SYNC® 3.
*Camera does not operate when vehicle exceeds forward speed of 10 kilometers per hour."

[bartlettj]

A good camera is nice but a good integrated brake controller, towing mirrors, and transmission is essential.

[Gonzo42]

I agree that the camera is a great thing.

[Bobbo]

RichnYvonne wrote:
Thanks Bobbo. Sorry about the wording. What you have is what I'm looking at. My TT is 26.5 ft. from tongue to bumper. In your opinion, I really wouldn't need the Pro backup assist package. But I will indeed get the Max Tow package.

Correct.

[BarabooBob]

I have a 2011 F150 with the factory tow package, 3.5 ecoboost, and select shift transmission. When I bought the truck (used) I did not know that all of this would be handy for towing. Going through the eastern US towing our new travel trailer I got acquainted with the advantages of having a properly set up tow vehicle. When I eventually replace this truck, I will be getting the same setup on the next truck.

[BillandCarole]

I'm convinced after seeing it in action. Im ordering it on our new Lariat.
Regards
Bill

[Lwiddis]

Another counterintuitive RV fact...the longer the TT, the easier to backup.

[SoundGuy]

Gonzo42 wrote:
Way back when I bought my 2000 F-150, the towing package consists mainly of a set of relays which plugged in to the relay box, nothing more. I think it was $100 then.

A lot has changed since 2000, Ford's maximum tow package is an entirely different animal than what you're talking about. As far as a camera is concerned it's invaluable IMO for hitching up, regardless of what vehicle is used for towing - wouldn't be without it.

[Gonzo42]

Way back when I bought my 2000 F-150, the towing package consists mainly of a set of relays which plugged in to the relay box, nothing more. I think it was $100 then.

[RichnYvonne]

Thanks Bobbo. Sorry about the wording. What you have is what I'm looking at. My TT is 26.5 ft. from tongue to bumper. In your opinion, I really wouldn't need the Pro backup assist package. But I will indeed get the Max Tow package.

[Bobbo]

I've never heard of "Ford's Ultimate Tow package with the backup camera assist," but I do have an F-150 with the Max Tow Package, and I have the backup camera and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. I don't plan to ever be without the backup camera again. If I am planning to tow, I don't plan to be without the Max Tow Package again. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist is not necessary with my 24' long TT, it is easier without, but it is absolutely essential when towing my 6' utility trailer. I can't even SEE the utility trailer from the driver's seat.