Hey kids,

So I've got this 2019 Ranger Lariat, 4x2 Crew Cab, Tow package.

I'm told I can two up to 7000 pounds, but that doesn't mean I "should" tow that much. I get that, makes sense because you also have to be able to STOP that weight. My confusion is with the length of the travel trailer I chose to get. What is too long for this truck? Is there a length I should keep it under or a max?

I've towed many trailers over the years with different Rangers I've owned and the largest was a 2000 pound Pop-up camper with a 2002 Ranger XLT 4x4 and it handled it like a champ. Most I've pulled with this current Ranger is about the same weight and an additional 500 pounds in the bed. It felt like a lead sled but was smooth and handled very well.

I've been shopping around for a travel trailer and I've seen some trailers that I like, but they are at 26' and 5400 pounds or 25' and 4550 pounds, and may have a Class IV hitch. Can I or should I tow that? Hmmm... don't know. This is where you brainy, more experienced folks come in. I've had some people tell me I shouldn't go for anything over 25' or 5000 pounds.

I'd like to hear your thoughts and experiences. Thanks in advance for your help.

TK

 

Usually the maximum length of vehicle + trailer is 65ft

Ranger should be 17ft and 26ft trailer = 43ft

Need trailer brakes on anything over 1,500lbs in most places, so brakes are not an issue if they are working, lol
Ranger trailer Package should have a wire already run from rear into cab to add electric trailer brake unit under dash

Recommended maximum frontal area of trailer for Ranger is 55sq ft, so if trailers front area is 7ft x 7ft thats 49sq ft

 

Thanks for that info. But.....
I have no idea what you mean about the "Maximum Frontal Area".

Thanks again.
TK

 

A flat bed trailer, i.e. car hauler has 0 Frontal area
A box trailer or travel trailer has a Frontal area where wind resistance is high when driving down the road
Width x height = sq ft frontal area

Frontal area increases the rolling resistance(drag) of the trailer at speed as far as engine/trans torque requirement is concerned, i.e. you can overheat the engine and transmission if rolling resistance gets too high
And MPG goes into the toilet, lol

 

Gas mileage with any trailer goes in the toilet.
Pulled a U-Haul car haul trailer with a 1949 Ford on it back in 2019 with a 2019 Ranger Lariat with towing package. Didnt know that car and trailer were back there until looking in the rear view mirror. Fiqured the trailer was 2200 and the Ford was 3100. Handled very well, but the gas mileage went from 28 to 16 real quick.