I have a 2003 ranger with a 3.0 and the dealer has told me that my max towing capacity is only 4000 lbs. Is there any way of increasing this to 5000 lbs? I now that if i had the 4.0 engine I could tow that much.

 

Towing more than the recommended weight is kind of a risky venture.

On the other hand, there are people around here that will tell you that they have towed 5000 without having any problems.

But it is a load for a Ranger. I guess a lot depends on the trailer (brakes?), the towing distance, driver experience, etc.

This is with a good Class III hitch, of course ...we are not talking about bumper hitches here.

 

I have class III hitch and the trailer does have good brakes but the question I ment to ask is there any way to leagaly increase the trucks gcvw it can tow 5000 lbs. I guess if I put a 4.0 engine in it should be ok?

 

I don't think you can "legally" change the GCVW. The factory sets this taking into consideration the factory: springs; brakes; suspension; hitch; etc. You can add many things which might improve towing capability, but it will not actually change the "factory" stated GCVW. I might be wrong, but this is my "perception". Good luck!