The Ford Ranger is a popular truck with a powerful engine and high towing capacity. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Ford Ranger can tow a variety of campers and trailers. Its sturdy build, high-strength steel frame, solid rear axle, and turbocharged engine make it a capable and versatile vehicle for towing.
The Ranger's towing capacity makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy travelling with trailers or fifth wheels. It can handle most types of campers, including pop-up trailers, teardrop trailers, travel trailers, airstreams, and small to medium fifth wheels.
In this article, we will explore the different types of campers that the Ford Ranger can tow, provide specifications for each type, and offer insights into the Ranger's performance, engine options, and advanced towing technologies. We will also discuss the importance of considering weight distribution, trailer weight, and towing best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Towing capacity | 7,500 pounds |
Engine | 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine |
Horsepower | 270 |
Pound-feet of torque | 310 |
Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Two-wheel drive or 4x4 |
Towing equipment | Trailer Tow Package, Class IV hitch, four-/seven-pin connector, Trailer Sway Control, Tow/Haul Mode |
Pop-up trailers
The average weight of a pop-up camper is between 1,800 and 2,000 pounds, with some weighing as little as 600 pounds and others reaching 3,000 pounds. The most basic models will be at the lower end of the weight range, while those with additional amenities, such as a kitchen sink, will weigh more. For example, the SylvanSport GO pop-up camper weighs just 840 pounds and can be pulled by almost any vehicle, including sedans and compact SUVs. On the other hand, larger pop-up campers with more features can weigh well over a ton (2,000 pounds).
When considering the weight of a pop-up camper, it's important to understand the different weight ratings and definitions. The unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) or dry weight is the weight of the camper before anything is added to it. The cargo-carrying capacity (CCC) is how much you can safely add to the camper, including your possessions, propane, and water. The gross vehicle weight ratio (GVWR) is the total safe weight of the fully loaded camper, including the UVW and CCC.
When towing a pop-up camper, it's important to stay within your vehicle's towing capacity. Most experts recommend staying under the tow rating by 20%. Additionally, the tongue weight or hitch weight of the trailer should be considered, as this affects the pressure on the back end of the tow vehicle.
Overall, pop-up trailers are a great option for those looking for a lightweight and compact camping trailer that can be towed by a variety of vehicles.
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Fifth wheelers
The Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs when equipped with the trailer tow package. This means that while the Ford Ranger cannot tow the heaviest fifth wheelers, it can tow smaller and medium-sized ones.
When considering towing a fifth wheeler with a Ford Ranger, it is important to look at the hitch weight, which is the portion of the weight that will rest in the truck bed. The Ford Ranger has a payload limit of 1,860 lbs, which is impressive for a smaller truck, but it will still limit your options.
Some fifth wheelers that can be towed by a Ford Ranger include:
- Flagstaff Super Lite 524LWS: Unladen Vehicle Weight: 7,149 lbs, Hitch Weight: 1,165 lbs, Total Carrying Capacity: 2,016 lbs
- Rockwood Extreme Sports Package 232ESP: Unladen Vehicle Weight: 2,933 lbs, Hitch Weight: 294 lbs, Total Carrying Capacity: 861 lbs
To ensure a safe towing experience, it is recommended to stay at least 20-35% below the maximum tow capacity of your vehicle.
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Teardrop trailers
The Ford Ranger is a versatile vehicle with a high towing capacity, making it a good option for those looking to tow a camper. The maximum towing capacity of a Ford Ranger is 7,500 pounds when properly equipped with the available Trailer Tow Package.
Now, let's focus on teardrop trailers, which are an excellent option for those with lower towing capacities. Teardrop trailers are small, lightweight, and easy to tow, making them a popular choice for adventurers. Here are some key details about teardrop trailers:
Weight and Dimensions:
Features:
Despite their small size, teardrop trailers can offer a surprising amount of functionality. Many teardrop trailers feature a comfortable sleeping area with a queen-sized mattress, a functional galley kitchen, and additional storage space. Some teardrop trailers also have outdoor kitchens with sinks, water tanks, and partitioned shelving. Cross ventilation, LED lighting, and tinted windows are other common features that enhance the comfort and privacy of the trailer.
Customization:
Towing Considerations:
When considering a teardrop trailer, it's important to ensure your vehicle's towing capacity. While teardrop trailers are lightweight compared to other campers, it's crucial to stay within your vehicle's recommended towing limits. It's also a good idea to allow for a safety margin by staying 20-35% below your maximum tow capacity. Additionally, keep in mind that proper towing equipment, such as a trailer brake controller and trailer hitch, is essential for a safe and smooth towing experience.
In summary, teardrop trailers offer a compact, lightweight, and functional option for camping enthusiasts. With their ease of towing and customizable features, teardrop trailers are an attractive choice for those looking to explore the great outdoors with the convenience of a trailer.
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Travel trailers
The Ford Ranger can easily tow classic travel trailers, thanks to its high towing capacity of 7,500 lbs. Here are some examples of classic travel trailers that the Ford Ranger can tow without any issues:
- Forest River Sonoma Mountain Edition 2400BH
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 5,923 lbs.
- Hitch Weight: 645 lbs.
- Total Carrying Capacity: 2,522 lbs.
- Hemisphere Hyper-Lyte 22RBHL
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 5,413 lbs.
- Hitch Weight: 570 lbs.
- Total Carrying Capacity: 2,157 lbs.
- Forest River Flagstaff T21TBHW
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 2,670 lbs.
- Hitch Weight: 372 lbs.
- Total Carrying Capacity: 702 lbs.
It's important to note that the towing capacity of the Ford Ranger depends on the model year, drivetrain, cab style, and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). While the 2024 models can tow up to 7,500 lbs when properly equipped, the 2020 models have a similar towing capacity of 7,500 lbs.
When towing a travel trailer with a Ford Ranger, it is recommended to stay within 20-35% below the maximum tow capacity to create a safety margin. Additionally, it's crucial to consider the weight of the cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and number of passengers when determining the towing capacity.
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Airstreams
International Serenity 23CB
- Unladen Vehicle Weight: 4,761 lbs.
- Hitch Weight: 664 lbs.
- Total Carrying Capacity: 1,239 lbs.
Airstream Sport 16
- Unladen Vehicle Weight: 3,500 lbs.
- Hitch Weight: 490 lbs.
- Total Carrying Capacity: 880 lbs.
When choosing an Airstream, it's important to consider not just the size but also the weight. The towing capacity of your Ford Ranger will determine the maximum weight you can tow. It's also a good idea to stay within a certain safety margin, keeping your total weight 20-35% below the maximum capacity.
By choosing an Airstream within the appropriate weight range, you can enjoy the unique style and functionality of this classic trailer while taking advantage of the Ford Ranger's towing capabilities.
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Frequently asked questions
The Ford Ranger has a towing capacity of between 3500 lbs. and 7500 lbs.
Yes, the Ford Ranger comes with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission, making it a good option for towing.
A 2021 Ford Ranger can tow travel trailers, campers, and RV trailers with its capacity of 7500 lbs.
Yes, the Ford Ranger can tow 3500 lbs., which can be increased to 7500 lbs. with a trailer tow package.
A Ford Ranger can tow small and medium-sized fifth wheelers, pop-up trailers, teardrop trailers, travel trailers, and airstreams.