Ford: Towing Capacity, ford f 150, duty alternator

Question
Hi Jason,
 I hope you can answer a question for me. I own a 1976 Ford F-150 heavy half ton long box 2WD pick-up with a very strong, recently rebuilt 460-4V. This engine came with this truck. It has an automatic.
 What is the total towing capacity of this truck via a bumper pull hitch? What class hitch should I use? Other than a tranny cooler, a large capacity radiator, and a heavy duty alternator, is there anything else you'd recommend?
 I plan to tow a recreational travel trailer, and since there are so many choices, the first thing I need to know is the weight I can safely pull.
 Thanks in advance for your help, and I anxiously await your appreciated reply.
Tom S.  

Answer
Tom, there are a few things that you have to consider when you are towing a large "thing."  First is, the total weight of the trailer being towed.  Considering that you have fresh 460, I don't think you will have to worry about that.  Now, you also have to worry about tongue weight.  Tongue weight can be estimated as being 10% of the "total trailer weight." They usually recommend that if the total trailer weight is going to be over 6000 lbs, then you should use a fifth wheel, or goose neck.  The tongue weight on a standard bumper type hitch it usually 200 lbs or less.  So if the trailer is over 2000 lbs, you should look into a bolt-on hitch.  Class I hitches would be for a trailer weight of 2000 lbs or less.  Class II are for 2000 - 3500 lbs, and class III hitches are for 3500 - 6000 lbs.  All this information is general, as I am sure they have hitches that are rated for more total weight.    One thing that comes to mind when towing a trailer that would come in handy is overload springs/leaves.  You can pick them up at your local parts store for less than 40 bucks.  You will notice a tremendous difference in how the truck "squats" when you have these on, as opposed to not having them.  I currently have them on my truck and although it is a bit rough in the rear-end without a trailer, the benefits far exceed the rough ride when I am towing a trailer.  If you have anymore questions about all this, please feel free to ask.  I hope this has helped,   Jason