I figure that my Formula 382 weighs around 15,000 fully loaded. In a recent post one ton diesel, dually's were the favored solution for towing, although SRW's are in frequent use. According to my research only the 2008 F-350 diesel dually is rated to tow that much conventionally. Are the guys using Chevy's or older Fords legal? Voiding their warranty? Insurance??

The 3500 ram is rated at 16000... not sure about GMC/Chevy though.

just drive with a sane mind and a one ton will be fine.

check with your DOT - I think the rules say any trailer over 12,500 lbs the truck must be 26,001 or greater, and that is a CDL -

No.

There aren't any single rear wheel 1-tons rated for 15,000# conventional.

my 05 is rated at 15000.....tow boss package

'05 what?

F350...but it is a dual wheel. i think the single wheels are rated for 12,500...correct me if i am wrong. I was just stating that the 05 to newer F350DRW had the higher rating if you got the tow boss package.
This was in response to the orginal poster asking if the older fords where illegal

Agreed....that's what I was getting at. 15K applies only to DRW and it must have a Weight-distributing set-up. Conventional and SRW are limited to 12.5K. All numbers come from my 2005 Superduty manual and the PSD supplement.

Just being a bit retentive here, but the weight distributing aspect applies because of hitch, frame or spring reasons? Does Ford have the same OEM hitch limitations as GM...max trailer weight only with WD setup? And has anyone truly "tested" the aftermarket hitches that will carry 15k without WD against the insurance companies and manufacturers. "Well the hitch says I can carry 15k, what do you mean my S10/Nissan/Toyota/Honda is overloaded?"

Not trying to argue or debate, just get down to the nitty gritty as far as towing capacity, aftermarket mods, and possible litigation.