I bought a new 98 Ranger, 5-speed manual transmission [Mazda model R-1], with the specific intent of towing it, four wheels down, behind a motorhome. I was shown a Ford document "1998/99 RV & Trailer Towing Guide" which shows I CAN without restriction. Later, I discovered the Owner's Manual says I CANNOT - - or more accurately, I cannot over 35 mph.

I have observed people ARE towing this vehicle but have yet to get a reasonable answer from any of them or anyone else. I have heard "I wouldn't recommend it" to "If it were mine, I would." to "You have two documents in conflict, go ahead, it's Ford's Problem".

I hate to spend another grand for the tow bars, etc., and find it was a mistake. I am willing to take a reasonable chance, if it gets down to that.

What's the word?

 

Hi George,
The only problem I can think of is that the transmission may not get proper lubrication being turned by the rear/driveshaft. If I remember correctly, the lube is moved around by the input shaft, this would not be turning when in tow. If you are concerned and cannot find a definate answer, one might consider removing the driveshaft if it will be towed over distance or high speeds. Sorry I can't be of more help! Chuck P.

 

Thanks for your rapid reply.

Proper lubrication is the only problem I or anyone else has thought of, so far. Remember, Ford says in their brochure that towing the 5-speed is UNRESTRICTED, meaning up to 55 mph, and in the Owner's Manual says it is RESTRICTED to 35 mph. Considering it is a splash lubrication system, it's hard to see what difference 20 mph can make.

Your reply includes the words, "If you are concerned ........ consider removing the driveshaft." First, I AM CONCERNED when all I can get is double talk, half-truths and not one solid answer. Second, I know of one company that makes a cable operated drive-line disconnect which, installed, costs about a grand. Moreover, they are sold to disconnect automatic transmissions - - not manual ones. Third, people are towing Rangers NOW based on what Ford people have told them via their own brochure. There has to be an "experience factor" by now since 98's are two years old, 99's one. And, finally, I have yet to see anyone crawling underneath to reattach their driveshaft on ANY towed vehicle.

I can think of one other angle to consider. Is it possible there has been more than one model of 5-speed manual transmission used in the 98/99 Ranger? Someone surely knows that answer.

 

Hi again George,
I am truly sorry about the line "If you are concerned", no disrespect over your concern! I can only relate to a Jeep being flat towed and burning out a bearin' in the tranny, he put lock-out hubs on the rear because it was easier than pullin' the shaft. This vehical is only used off-road. The only other idea I've had is when you do make a stop, to start the truck and let it idle for a little bit, this seems that it would throw lube up where it's needed and keep the bearings wet. I'm sorry I don't know more about the trans used for that year, but, hopefully someone out here can enlighten us to this info. Good luck in the search for a definate answer! Chuck P.
83 Ranger 2wd
79 F-150 4wd

 

I would look into the drive shaft disconnect that you mentioned. I used to see those on S-10s when I worked in the dealership. I can't see a reason why it would work for a auto and not a stick? From what I could see, the disconnect occurred at the rear of the drive shaft. Are auto and manual driveshafts different?

 

I'm getting nothing but "error messages" when I try to reply to messages using your system. It's beyond me.

I posted a question with the above title on 10/10. Since then I received a reply from Chuck P. on 10/11, sent out one on 10/11, replied by Chuck P. on 10/12, and now one from Curly on 11/1.

If you have an idea of how I can reply to Curly, let me know. The reply button brings on the error message.

Thanks.

 

I have come across some information in the past few days.

First, I called the manufacturer of the drive line disconnect device. Don't forget, he had something to sell. He said to go ahead and tow the ranger without a disconnect - - I do not need one with the manual transmission. He said the problem really was that Ford had not done any testing and that lawyers at Ford are just protecting their backsides - - so what else is new?

The other thing is I came across an article in a major motor coach magazine that said the Ranger with a manual transmission is towable.

It appears that back a few years, maybe 1992, the trans they were using did have a problem with lubrication. I gather not in recent models.

I'm satisfied and will now buy the towing apparatus - - with a little confidence that I can do it OK. I'm disappointed in Ford's poor handling of such matters.

 

Think of a Tow Truck, The Vehicle is always Towed from the Rear and the Front Tires are on the Ground, Buy a 2 Wheel Trailer, You have a Motorhome and a New Ranger, sounds like you can afford it. no pun intended..