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Question for the V8 Guys who tow

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Old 09-30-2008
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Question for the V8 Guys who tow

What sort of towing can you do comfortably with the more powerful engine?

Obviously the suspension, frame, and axle are all limitations, though the suspension can he aided by air bags. I'm wondering because I'd eventually like to do a v8 swap and if I could tow a good bit more that'd be great as well.
 
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Old 09-30-2008
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It'll increase your ease of towing and the amount you can pull, however not increase your safe tow limit.

A stiffer leaf pack (chev 1500) or AAL would help with sprung weight however your brakes will play a huge factor, also the fact you still have a very light compact truck, going over the weight of a truck this small is never a smart/safe thing.

But to answer your question, yes, depending on your transmission you will see a big gain in towing strength if done properly. If you have an 8.8" you'll be fine, and trailer brakes are a must for (IMO) 3,000lbs+ to be able to stop safely.

BTW - Air helper bags are a big help, but don't forget the esentials.
 
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Old 10-02-2008
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Originally Posted by CBFranger
What sort of towing can you do comfortably with the more powerful engine?

Obviously the suspension, frame, and axle are all limitations, though the suspension can he aided by air bags. I'm wondering because I'd eventually like to do a v8 swap and if I could tow a good bit more that'd be great as well.
i had to break ***** but if ur gunna tow regularly then why not pick up a cheap truck to tow with? the ranger is limited by the brakes, and if u intended to swap in a v8 u would be better off starting with a 1/2 ton at the least. by the time u do all that modding u will still only be able to tow (err stop) so much. plus the wheel base limits towing to a point. not saying a ranger cant tow but i wouldnt want more then 5,000 lbs on it for any lenght of time.

u can pick up a cheap pre-97 F series for a tow mule.
 
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Old 10-03-2008
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I like my lil mazda too much to sell it and I'm a one truck kinda of person. I'm not talking about towing a whole whole lot. More or less, making stuff I already tow (19-23' boats) easier and being able to pull the boats out of much steeper ramps. I was just curious as well, v8 swap is well into the future. I'm about as poor as college students come.
 
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