Looking to buy either a used Explorer or Ranger for work/towing jobs>

[FordNStangLuvr]

New to the forums here. I used to own a 92 Explorer XLT, and loved it. Sold it when my wife bought a Accord.

Anyway, I am switching jobs, and my new field requires about 50-100 miles of driving per day on the job.

I would also like to use this vehicle for towing a 17-19 footish boat occasionally.

Im not sure of the capabilities of the ranger or the explorer. But Im sure the explorer can handle it.

I think this time Im going to get a 95 ish explorer to get the new body style, or somewhere around there in a ranger...

The reason Im getting truck(besides the towing), is that I do go into some rough roads(nothing that needs 4X4 though), and if I do get the ranger, it will have to be extended cab, because I will have equipment with me.
The F150 is out because of the mileage. My old explorer would get 18 in the city and 22ish on the highway. Acceptable for me. My buddies F150 gets 13 cit and lucky to get 18 highway. I get paid per mile as well, and figure the better it is on gas the more money I make

What are you guys opinions?

 

[Jason_25]

A 96-2001 2WD with the tow package would do you nicely. It will be pretty reliable, and be able to tow alot. Although, if you're concerned with highway mileage get one with 3.55 gears.

 

[FordNStangLuvr]

Now, you are talking about a V6 explorer correct?
What axle ratios are offered? Are there codes that I can look at on the doors to see what one I would be getting?

When you say tow a lot...howabout a car on a trailer?

Im about to go wild with my mustang, and it will need to be trailered to the track...my brother has a F250, but it would be nice if I could do it...

 

[Jason_25]

Sorry actually I meant one with the V8 would be better for you.

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

The codes are listed in the manual. I have a '95. I'll post the codes tomorrow. Right now all I know is that the axle code 41, is the 3.27 gears and it can only tow 3300lbs. I have it thats why I know. I'll look tomorrow for the other ones though.

1995ExplorerXLT

 

[FordNStangLuvr]

Thanks for the help guys. Man, if the explorer can only pull 3300 with that axle, I think the Ranger is out for me...

Also, if I did decide to go with a pre 94, what major changes were made in 95? Did the towing capabilities change? Any big suspension modifications?

 

[Paul]

Mike -

Welcome to the site. I used to pull a 20' boat (2800 lbs) with a 800 lb trailer with my '91 Sport. I have the manual transmission and at that time I had 3.55 gears.

I think any Explorer would be fine to tow the boat you refer to. An automatic would give you the oprtion of a transmission cooler, but either way I think you won't have any issues.

As for trailering the Mustang, that may be a bit too much. Our '01 GT weighs in at 3200 lbs, can't see you towing that on a trailer (another 1000 lbs.) with an Explorer. If its only back and forth to local track you'd probably be okay, but I wouldn't plan on excessive mileage with that set-up.

Paul
'91 Sport

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

Alright I've got the codes and weights for ya. Its for 1995 Explorer's with the 4.0L OHV V6, 4x2, Auto:

41= 3.27 open gears, Max. Trailer weight: 0-3300lbs., GCWR: 7500lbs.

43= 3.08 open, Trailer weight not listed.

46= 3.73 open, Trailer weight: 0-5300lbs., GCWR: 9500lbs.

D4= 3.73 Limited Slip, Trailer weight 0-5300lbs., GCWR: 9500lbs.

My manual shows that it could have 3.55 open gears but it doesn't show the code for it. If you get 3.55 you can tow 0-4300lbs., and GCWR: 8500lbs.

Hope this helps.

1995ExplorerXLT

 

[FordNStangLuvr]

Excellent! THANKS A TON!!!
Im going for the explorer now!