Neutral tow kit

[dhpatterson]

I have a 2006 Ranger FX4 Level II with the 4.0 L V6 and want to tow it 4 wheels down behind my motorhome. I ordered the Ford Neutral tow kit that puts a neutral in the transfer case and makes this possible but it has been on back order for seven weeks now. I check with my Ford dealer parts dept weekly and the factory always has the same answer that they are working to resolve the issue.
Has anyone else had this problem and if so how did you resolve it. I love my truck but it is useless to me if I can't tow it.

 

[bcburlette]

Not sure if this will help any since yours is ten years newer, but here is all searching turned up anyway

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=40877

 

[syntst]

Check the installation instructions for the tow 'kit'. I have a 2003 Explorer 4.6L V8 4WD. The tow 'kit' is nothing more than an LED that connects to a clip under the steering wheel dash. Ford discontinued the part but I made my own by purchasing an LED from an automotive store ($10), cutting the clip off of the 2 wires under the steering wheel dash and connecting the LED. The dealer made sure the correct utlility was downloaded into the onboard computer. By following the sequence of steps required to put the transfer case into neutral the light illuminated just as it's supposed to. The dealer confirmed the transfer case was in neutral and Bob's your uncle. The parts you're missing out on in the 'kit' are some safety stickers and a couple of templates that show you where to drill holes to mount the light on the dash panel. Hope this helps.

 

[dhpatterson]

Thanks for the tip! Now I can get this done and get back on the road towing the Ranger behind the motor home. You would think Ford would put out a dealer advisory on how to do this if they discontinue a part.

 

[EPSILON]

Hello, any thoughts on towing 02 xlt 5 speed 4 down, as I have been towing mine behind the moho, no problems, I am aware of.. So am I screwing up??

 

[syntst]

It depends if there is an electronic transfer case for the 4X4. Some 4X4's transfer case can be shifted manually. I would think if you've towed it for any length of time it's okay. The problem would certainly show itself fast because the transfer case would not be lubricated while it was turning - you'd blow it out after about an hour. Best to check with a dealer.

 

[EPSILON]

Thanks Syntst, it is electronic shift, its ok as long as it is manual trans, according to the Haynes manual; ( if its auto trans 35 mph no farther than 50 miles)The Borg Warner 13-54 Manual or electronic shift transfer case. the unit is lubricated by a positive displacement oil pump that channels oil through drilled holes in the output shaft and allows towing of the vehicle at maximum legal speeds for extended distances without disconnecting the front or rear driveshafts.
I should have read this before I towed it, got lucky, I generally due stuff bass ackwards, although, I did get the pinion seal done without problems and the 4x4 cm changed out so I have 4x4 and no leaks. plugs, wires, fuel filter, next. Thanks, Ray...