The spouse wants to get a travel trailer. I've been researching because I don't want a pop up or spend $20K on something you can't even turn around in. There are some that are around 16 feet long that seem adequate. I'm trying to find out about towing one with our Ranger. 2003 Super Cab 3.0 automatic. I assume that I will need to investigate a trans cooler, electric brake controller and a weight distributing hitch and possibly change rear shocks.
The weights of these run around 3200 - 3800 pounds, but that's with full tanks. I can reduce the weight by 750 pounds by running empty or near empty.

Depending on where you look, some people say sure no problem, on flat land it'll be fine, or hell no don't try it. I can't seem to get a solid feel for if this is possible/safe.

Wouldn't be going over mountains with it. Anticipate the farthest trip would be 4 hours to the ocean. If it's doable, I can afford a trailer. If its not, I cannot afford to buy a 1/2 ton and a trailer. If the Ranger can't/shouldn't do it....then I'll just pass on this idea for now.

Anyone have any experience with this?

 

From page 21

https://www.fleet.ford.com/resources...s/2003_All.pdf

You'll be maxed out, and yes you will need trailer brakes

 

Yeah....I'd be trying to keep things down closer to 3,000 for sure. My question is if there is anyone in the real world that has any experience.