1997 Ranger 3.0/5 speed 4x4 towing capacity

[McKay356]

Howdy Folks,
Thinking of buying a 96-99 Ranger 3.0/manual shift 4x4, and was wondering the tow capacity? I need to pull my boat about 30 miles to my favorite lake about once a week. The 4.0 engine would be better no doubt....but I am looking for decent fuel economy when the truck is not towing. My boat weighs 2500 lbs. Thanks for any info.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Bad news for you- unfortunately the manual transmission prevents the truck from having a higher tow rating. My 93 3.0 5 speed is only rated for 1700 lbs or so. Many have towed more weight, but it is outside what is recommended by Ford. The Mazda transmission is a bit weak in certain areas. I'd think you could do it occasionally, but that's entirely up to you to decide. Whatever you do, get a decent tow hitch, many bumpers are bent every day towing on the factory bumper.

 

[gijoecam]

4x2, manual trans:
regular cab:
3.45 rear: 1800 lbs.
3.73 rear: 2800

Regular cab splash 4x2 or *special suspension*
3.73: 2000 lbs.

Supercab 4x2:
3.45: 1500 lbs
3.73: 2500 lbs

Supercab 4x2 Splash or Special Suspension:
3.73: 2000 lbs

4x4 manual transmission
regular cab, 4x4:
3.73: 2400 lbs.

Regular Cab 4x4 Splash
3.73: 2500 lbs.

Supercab 4x4
3.73: 2100 lbs

Supercab 4x4 Splash
3.73: 2200 lbs.

Clear as mud?

-Joe

 

[McKay356]

Thanks Joe.... after looking for some sites with info I got 2240 lbs with the 3.0. Not much......but enough.