Towing 4500+ lbs with 2005 ranger?
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Towing 4500+ lbs with 2005 ranger?
I purchased a 2005 ranger edge 5 speed auto 4x4 with 4.0 engine. I towed a camping trailer last weeked about 150 miles. The ranger pulled well but the engine does work hard going up hills. I go about 55-65 max and engine highest rpm was 3300. Any feedback? Am I asking too much for a 4.0 ? Will I cook the auto tranny?
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From: Wichita, KS
The engine and transmission are probably up to it but I'd be concerned about brakes. Did you have any trouble stopping?
Edit--thinking about it, you could also be overloading the transmission.
Edit--thinking about it, you could also be overloading the transmission.
Last edited by mikebon08; Aug 2, 2005 at 09:34 PM.
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From: Wichita, KS
Is there a GCW on the truck (door sticker, IIRC)?
I have no idea if Rangers offer any sort of towing package (trans cooler, etc), or if you have to go to full-size for that. The only concerns I can think of (keep in mind I've never towed with a Ranger) are the brakes, which you've covered already; the transmission; and perhaps the Ranger might be light enough to get shoved around by a heavy trailer, say in a crosswind or rough road. One other issue might be that the gearing is high, which might be why the engine seemed to be working hard.
There's other guys here that know more about this than me....if I'm wrong feel free to correct me.
I have no idea if Rangers offer any sort of towing package (trans cooler, etc), or if you have to go to full-size for that. The only concerns I can think of (keep in mind I've never towed with a Ranger) are the brakes, which you've covered already; the transmission; and perhaps the Ranger might be light enough to get shoved around by a heavy trailer, say in a crosswind or rough road. One other issue might be that the gearing is high, which might be why the engine seemed to be working hard.
There's other guys here that know more about this than me....if I'm wrong feel free to correct me.
Last edited by mikebon08; Aug 2, 2005 at 10:02 PM.
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Thanks for your input. I think you are correct about the sound from the engine working . It is geared low 4.10. Mostly only noticable when climbing. The transmission does have a small external cooler . I think if I dont push too hard while towing I should be o.k. ,mostly I think I' m a little nervous.
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Joined: Jun 2001
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From: Running Springs CA
4.0, 4.10 gears, external tranny cooler, no problem. 3300 rpm seems high but that engine is probably near peak torque, right where it should be under load.
Jim
Jim
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I towed my camper last weekend to Kennebunk Maine, about 120 miles from my house. No problems, the ranger did well. I drove 55 - 65 mph and got 11-12 mpg. The only thing I noticed was the tructk does work fairly hard on hills. I dont try to push the truck trying to keep up speed. I know that a f150 with a v8 would do a better job of towing but I enjoy the size and driveabilty of my ranger!
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