A 4x4 v-6 escape will pull 3500 pounds all day long. The factory is conservitive with thier tow rateings because of warranty issues. As long as you stay at that magic 3500 number, or under, you'll be fine, and even if you go a hair over, I won't tell, if you won't ha ha. As DoctorCAD says, trailor brakes are a big plus. GOOD LUCK!!