I have a 5.5x12 single axle trailer I pull my single cab polaris ranger 800 around with. I was going to take it to the shop on my way to work but wasn't wanting to drive the f250 and was wondering if the ranger was up to the task. The trailer is fairly light but I'd say it's easily over 500 lbs. There is no hills on the way and I've read that it will overheat pulling atvs uphill and don't wanna get stranded on my way to work. Also I have a class 3 hitch.

 

So you would be at about 2,000lbs trailer weight, Polaris 1,450(empty) + trailer 500

It "can" pull that, but don't know if it "may" pull that much weight.

You will need to look up the year of the Ranger and then if it's an automatic or manual
Manuals are rated for less weight.

"Can" means it does have the ability to do something.
"May" means can it LEGALLY do something???

If your ranger is rated as 1,800lbs max. trailer weight and you pull a 2,000lbs trailer, and there is a problem, i.e. fender bender or other incident, your insurance company can just walk away from it and leave you holding the bag.
Plus any tickets/fines for being over weight.

Unless you were up around the 3,000lbs mark with trailer and bed loaded you should be fine as far as engine heat, 2.3's run cool for the most part.

 

i don't know if i would chance it. you could end up costing yourself more money in Ranger repairs than f250 fuel