Ford Ranger's Camper-Carrying Capacity: How Much Weight Can It Handle?

Ford Rangers are a popular choice for camping enthusiasts, thanks to their sturdy build and high towing capacity. The mid-sized pickup truck has been around since the 1980s and has gone through several iterations, with the latest models offering improved powerplant options, trim packages, and capabilities.

The current Ford Ranger has a payload capacity of between 1609 and 2128 pounds, which is a significant increase from earlier models. This means it can handle a wide range of campers, from pop-up trailers to small and medium-sized fifth wheels.

However, it's important to be mindful of weight limits and crosswinds when using a Ford Ranger for camping. Upgrading the suspension and checking axle ratings can help accommodate additional weight and improve safety.

In this article, we'll explore the different camper options available for Ford Ranger owners, as well as provide some tips and tricks to enhance your camping experience.

Ford Ranger payload capacity

The payload capacity of a Ford Ranger depends on the model year. The current payload capacity of the Ford Ranger, covering models from 2019 to the present day, is between 1,609 and 2,128 pounds. This is because the Ford Ranger is now a mid-sized pickup. Earlier models of the Ford Ranger, from 1983 to 2012, had a lower payload capacity of 1,250 to 1,800 pounds, as they were compact pickups.

The payload capacity of a vehicle is how much weight can be safely loaded into it, including passengers, tools, and cargo. It is calculated by subtracting the curb weight (the weight of the vehicle when empty) from the gross vehicle weight rating (the maximum weight the vehicle can safely weigh).

The Ford Ranger's payload capacity varies depending on the specific options and installations for each particular truck. For example, whether the car is automatic or standard influences the weight. To find the exact payload capacity of your Ford Ranger, check the car information sticker, which is usually found on the driver's side door jamb or inside the door frame.

It is important to note that overloading a truck with too much weight can damage the suspension and make the truck unstable and more difficult to brake. Therefore, it is crucial to stay within the payload capacity limits specified by the manufacturer.

Ford Rangers have a payload limit of around 1,860 pounds, which means they can tow most types of campers, including pop-up trailers, travel trailers, teardrop trailers, airstreams, and small to medium fifth wheels. However, when choosing a camper, it is important to consider not only the towing capacity but also the payload weight, as a heavy load in the truck bed can affect the vehicle's handling and stability.

To improve the payload capacity and stability of a Ford Ranger for camping, it is recommended to upgrade the suspension. Options for suspension upgrades include helper springs, overload springs, and airbags. By upgrading the suspension and staying within the payload capacity limits, Ford Ranger owners can safely and comfortably enjoy their camping trips.

Towing capacity

The towing capacity of a Ford Ranger depends on the model year. The 2019 model year and newer Rangers have a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, while the 2000 to 2011 models have a range of 2,180 to 7,500 pounds, depending on the engine. The 1983 models were rated at 1,200 or 1,600 pounds, depending on the hitch and rear-suspension setup.

The Ford Ranger's towing capacity is impressive, and it can tow most types of campers, including pop-up trailers, travel trailers, teardrop trailers, airstreams, and small to medium fifth wheels. However, it is important to note that the towing capacity of a vehicle is different from its payload capacity, which is the amount of weight that can be carried in the bed of the truck. Overloading the truck with too much weight can damage the suspension and make the vehicle unstable or difficult to brake.

When considering the towing capacity of a Ford Ranger, it is also important to take into account the weight of the vehicle itself, the number of passengers, and any additional cargo. The maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating for a four-wheel-drive SuperCrew model is 12,500 pounds, and this limit should never be exceeded for safety reasons.

To enhance the towing experience, Ford has introduced several amenities, such as a wiring harness that facilitates connecting trailers with four-pin wiring to the truck's factory 7-pin connector. Additionally, Ford has developed a sway-control system that senses the trailer's movement and automatically adjusts the speed and braking to keep the trailer securely attached.

Suspension upgrades

The Ford Ranger is a midsize truck with several suspension upgrade options to accommodate a camper. Upgrading the suspension can increase ground clearance, towing or load capacity, and durability. Here are some options to consider for suspension upgrades:

Helper Springs:

Hellwig EZ-990 Medium Duty Helper Springs #983: Offers 2,000 lbs. of level load capacity and mounts under factory axle u-bolt plates. It comes with a lifetime warranty and is suitable for 1990-2011 Ford Ranger models.

Overload Springs:

SuperSprings Overload Springs: Available for different Ford Ranger model years, offering load level capacities ranging from 950 lbs. to 1500 lbs.

Air Helper Springs:

Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs: Maximize the Ford Ranger's safe load-carrying capacity, improve stability when carrying a camper, and enhance overall ride quality.

Suspension Stabilizer:

Torklift StableLoad Suspension Stabilizer #A7311: Improves handling characteristics, actively keeps springs under load, and reduces side-to-side sway and body roll when loaded with a camper.

Lift Kits:

Lift kits are also an option for increasing ground clearance. A 50mm (2-inch) lift is generally considered acceptable by authorities and insurance companies. Longer, stiffer springs are typically used in these kits, along with longer dampers and hardware for installation.

GCM and GVM Upgrades:

Upgrading the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) can be crucial if you plan to tow heavy loads. These upgrades typically involve new springs, dampers, shackles, U-bolts, and other hardware. GCM upgrades may require engineering certification and paperwork, as they impact towing capacity and payload.

Suspension Kits:

Ford Ranger suspension kits offer smoother rides, easier towing, and more confident handling under heavy payloads. They are designed for maximum performance and vehicle-specific tuning.

Camper options

Ford Rangers are versatile trucks that can tow most types of campers, including pop-up trailers, travel trailers, teardrop trailers, airstreams, and small or medium-sized fifth wheels. Here are some camper options to consider for your Ford Ranger:

Four Wheel Pop-Up Campers: Fleet Model

• Offers interior headroom of 6 feet, 4 inches when popped up.
• Sleeps up to 3 adults with a queen-size cabover bed and a couch/bed conversion.
• Features a 20-gallon freshwater capacity, LED lighting, and is pre-wired for solar.
• Base weight ranges from 250 to 325 lbs, depending on the bed size.

Fiberglass Reinforced Product's (FRP) Flip-Pac Camper

• A unique camper option with a large shell and a fold-out top, providing a spacious sleeping area with a queen-size mattress and ample storage space.
• Base weight ranges from 250 to 325 lbs, depending on the bed size.
• Interior headroom ranges from 6'6" to 7'6".
• Sleeping bed weight capacity of 1,000 lbs.

Northern Lite's 6'10" Lite Series Truck Camper

• A cab-over camper made from two-piece moulded fiberglass, designed for small trucks like the Ford Ranger.
• Base weight of 1050 lbs.
• Features include an 18,000 BTU auto light furnace and interior LED lighting.
• 14.5-gallon freshwater tank capacity.

Rockwood Extreme Sports Package 232ESP

A pop-up trailer option with an unladen vehicle weight of 2,933 lbs and a hitch weight of 294 lbs, resulting in a total carrying capacity of 861 lbs.

Flagstaff Super Lite 524LWS

A classic travel trailer option with an unladen vehicle weight of 7,149 lbs and a hitch weight of 1,165 lbs, offering a total carrying capacity of 2,016 lbs.

Hemisphere Hyper-Lyte 22RBHL

Another classic travel trailer choice, with an unladen vehicle weight of 5,413 lbs, a hitch weight of 570 lbs, and a total carrying capacity of 2,157 lbs.

Sonoma Mountain Edition 2400BH

A teardrop trailer option with an unladen vehicle weight of 5,923 lbs, a hitch weight of 645 lbs, and a total carrying capacity of 2,522 lbs.

Remember to consider the towing capacity and payload restrictions of your Ford Ranger when choosing a camper. Always stay within your vehicle's weight limits to ensure safe and stable towing.

Safety considerations

When considering the safety of towing a camper with a Ford Ranger, there are several key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the weight of the camper does not exceed the towing capacity of the Ford Ranger, which is 7,500 lbs. Overloading the vehicle can compromise safety and handling.

Secondly, proper weight distribution is crucial. The weight of the camper should be correctly balanced, and the tongue weight, or hitch weight, should not exceed the recommended limit of 750 lbs for Ford Rangers with tow packages. Improper weight distribution can affect steering and braking, leading to unsafe driving conditions.

Thirdly, the length of the trailer or camper can impact stability. A longer partition between the trailer's wheels and the towing truck can improve safety. The Ford Ranger's 126.8-inch wheelbase can safely accommodate a 24-foot trailer.

Additionally, it is recommended to upgrade the suspension of the Ford Ranger when accommodating a camper. Options include helper springs, overload springs, or airbags, which can enhance stability and improve the overall ride quality.

It is also worth noting that the Trailer Tow Package, available for every trim level of the Ford Ranger, can further enhance safety. This package includes features such as a Trailer Brake Controller and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which help with slowing down and backing up the trailer, respectively.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the limitations of the Ford Ranger. While it can tow most types of campers, including pop-up trailers, travel trailers, teardrop trailers, and small to medium fifth wheels, it may not be suitable for the heaviest models on the market.

By following these considerations and staying within the recommended weight and length limits, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when towing a camper with a Ford Ranger.

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