With a 2006 E-250 with the 4.6 liter engine, the step bumper hitch, and 190,000 miles on it, how well is it likely to tow, and what ought I know about before towing with it?

I just bought the vehicle. The suspension and steering feel strong and solid. The brakes were recently replaced all around. The tires have pretty good tread and are matched all around, although they are not a well known brand. They are LT (light truck) tires (and sized 245/75/16 I think.) The engine and transmission feel strong and solid, but the vehicle has 191, 000 miles on it. I don't know which rear end it has. Would that be coded into the VIN or on the door pillar sticker?


Any general considerations or advice would be welcome.


Some things in particular I'm wondering:

- If towing 5000 lbs or less, is it good to just attach a ball to the step bumper, or is it better to install a regular towing hitch? The bumper is stamped as rated for 5000 pounds. It seems kind of high off the ground for a hitch, and the height is not adjustable via a drop down thingy like those I see in regular hitch receivers.

- Is the high mileage on the engine a factor in towing? Should I downgrade my tow capacity because of it? If so, how much?

- Same high mileage question for the tranny. I wonder if there's a way to find out if it's been replaced already, and if so, how long ago?

- Are there any parts in particular I should inspect? What should I look for?

- Are there any aftermarket items I ought to add for easier and safer towing?

 

If the gross load you're going to tow is 5000 lbs including the trailer, then I think that this van should be fine as is. I would install a hitch as I don't like bumper hitches for that much weight, plus it will lower the ball.

The cooling system, the trans fluid, and the diff fluid should all be checked and/or changed. You should get a brake controller if the trailer your going to tow has electric brakes. And it should! Any trailer over 2000 lbs should have brakes on it.