Need to Trailer Keel Boat

[AndyF]

I have a Ranger 2006 3ltr auto, payload pack II, w/trailer package. I have hauled 2 cords of wood at a time(in the box) with this truck, 16 cords a year since new w/air shocks. Truck doesn't seem to mind this at 70Khr. Runs like a dream. I have a 3500 lb hitch.

I need to make one trip with a 20' sail boat of 2500 lbs of 120 miles. I can take back county roads and crawl at 60-70KM/hr if need be and gauge speed by the tach w/OD off. No high mountains mostly flat w/ occasional low hill.

A single axle trailer would give me more of a dippier ride, and may cause issues with the tongue limit. A tow axle would add more weight but give a smoother ride and easier on the hitch.

A Ford dealer and I were talking and he said in a pinch a well packaged ranger could do a temporary 5000lbs short trip, but not often.

Thanks for the help.

 

[RangerX]

I've never towed anything in my life, but from everything you say, it sounds totally reasonable. Long as you don't overheat the trans, the rest of the truck should be capable.
The tow axle sounds like the better way to go.

 

[colintrax]

2500lbs ain't much, you're fine. Leave it out of od unless youre moving pretty good. 60mph~+