Kaylee said:
I once bent my bumper towing something way over the max limit, but I got the job done. Then again, I have the 4.0 version.
Some Rangers are better at towing than others. I have a B4000 that’s rated for 5500 lbs, but even then, you’re never going to tow like a full-size truck. Also, remember that the weight you add (gear, water, etc.) really stacks up. Make sure you’re using a proper frame hitch, not the bumper.
@Logan
Yep, was towing off the bumper. Check this out: [link to bumper]
I live in a 24’ camper full-time and have a Ranger. You absolutely cannot do this.
Towing capacity isn’t the same as payload, and you’re not even close to being within a safe range. Do NOT attempt this.
Do you have a proper tow package with a frame-mounted hitch and trailer brakes installed?
Gage said:
Do you have a proper tow package with a frame-mounted hitch and trailer brakes installed?
Doubtful. Most compact trucks aren’t set up for towing heavy trailers with brakes.
@Finn
True, but at least with the proper setup, you’d have a better chance of stopping safely.
Unless your camper has brakes and you’ve installed a brake controller, I wouldn’t do it. Stopping is the real issue when you’re over the weight limit.
My dad once towed over capacity with his Ranger. It was fine… until it wasn’t. The truck overheated, and that was the end of it. He never drove it again. Learn from that mistake.
I treat my ‘04 3.0 like it can pull just under what my brother’s ‘05 4.0 can handle. Same suspension and brakes, just less power. I’ve towed about 4,000 lbs at 60 mph and 2,500 lbs at 75 mph, and it handled fine as long as I kept the overdrive off.
@Adam
Overdrive off at 75 mph? That’s impressive. What RPM were you at?
Flippa said:
@Adam
Overdrive off at 75 mph? That’s impressive. What RPM were you at?
Around 3,500 RPM.
Flippa said:
@Adam
Overdrive off at 75 mph? That’s impressive. What RPM were you at?
Around 3,500 RPM.
Not bad at all. I’m at 3,500 RPM at 95 mph with overdrive on.
@Flippa
Yeah, I’ve had to run at 4,000 RPM for a few hours once due to headwinds, and the truck took it like a champ.
Adam said:
@Flippa
Yeah, I’ve had to run at 4,000 RPM for a few hours once due to headwinds, and the truck took it like a champ.
Rangers are tough little trucks. I’m often towing my rowboat at 80 mph, and I still trust it!
If I were you, I’d rent a U-Haul truck that’s rated to tow that kind of weight.
Even with a weight distribution hitch, I wouldn’t try it. Check the manual!
I’ve towed heavy loads with my Rangers, but I always had helper springs, electric brakes, and 4.10 gears. If your setup isn’t as strong, think twice.
My 3.0 4x4 manual has towed around 2,000 lbs, but I kept it under 65 mph. After an hour, the check engine light would come on, but it managed. Just not ideal.
With my experience towing with a 3.0, I’d say your engine will barely handle it. Best case, you’ll be slow, and worst case, your brakes won’t stop you in an emergency. Towing in hilly terrain makes it a really bad idea.
Thanks for all the input, guys. Sounds like it’s not a good idea after all.