I am looking at buying a '06 Expedition Limited. I've found a nice deal, but the only problem is that it looks like it has a 3.31 rear end. I need to tow my boat (5000 - 6000 lbs) maybe 4 times a year. I know this rear end is not suitable for this type of towing.

My question is; can I just get me a set of smaller wheels / tires to use just on those few occasions when I tow the boat. Wouldn't that have the same effect of changing the rear axle ratio? How much smaller would I have to go to get the same effect of a 3.73 rear ratio?

My guess is that it would work, but that the smaller wheels and tires would look kinda silly. I guess it depends on how much smaller I would need to go. It would be nice to have the better highway ratio for the 99% of the time that the truck would be used for daily use, but then be able to have a better towing ratio when needed.

Thanks for the help.

 

How far do you tow the boat? If the lake is near your house, there's no sense in spending the money to get all new tires and wheels for just those trips. I've towed more than that on a 3.00 ratio.

 

Maximum towing capacity is 8900 lb with a built-in Class IV receiver hitch; 6000 lb on the 4x4. You will be just fine. I wouldnt change a thing.