Hey guys, I own a 2005 Ranger, w/ FX4 package, 4.0 V6, 4X4. I own a small landscaping business, and the Ranger is my main truck (for now). I want to get a trailer for this upcoming season and I'm wondering what I can safely tow. I want to get one with brakes or buy one and put brakes on it. A couple questions:
If I buy a trailer with brakes, will I have to install a trailer brake controller on the truck as well?
Has anyone towed an enclosed trailer with my combination of ranger and how was the stopping/maneuverability/mileage? I'm thinking about like a 6x12 or 6x10 enclosed.
And, would an open utility trailer be a safer option because of the less weight and because its just easier to tow?
My terrain around where I live is flat, little to no hills, mostly pavement driving, heavy traffic, and probably won't go above 40mph (but the trailer dealer is accessible by highway, so 55mph a couple times).

Thanks for all the help in advance guys. Mods, i apologize if this is in the wrong section.
And here is a pic of the truck:

 

Ford 2005 spec here: http://www.fleet.ford.com/resources/...wing_Guide.pdf
Page 18
FX4 Ranger models have less towing weight rating, as do Manual transmission vehicles

Safely and legally can be different, like "can it" or "may it"

You "can" exceed Fords recommended Safety towing weights, BUT.........if there is ever an accident, even if it had nothing to do with weight, insurance companies can bail out on the "operating an unsafe vehicle" clause, that is the "may not" side, legalese.

Surge brakes work fine for most trailers, these are on the trailers tongue, when you are pulling on the trailer the brakes are off, when you slow down, or use the brakes, the trailers weight pushes against the tongue which applies the trailers brakes.

Electric trailer brakes do require a controller to be installed in the cab, and are required in some states when a trailers weight exceeds XXXX pounds loaded, so check your states regulations.

 

Surge brakes are nice until you have to back over a curb or half the time back up period without getting out and switching it off. Also I would suggest an open trailer. Less heat during the day since its open, better visibility while driving and if you are carrying plants that are going to be stripped by the wind, you can always tarp them. An open trailer will also have a lot less wind drag to it too.

 

I have a 8x5 utility trailer with wooden sides, and i used to haul my 32 inch encore with steel catcher, my blowers, weed wackers, debris, and tools with a ford explorer during the summer. It did it just fine. Just dont go too big on the trailer. Just use a trailer like the one i have, and the truck bed. I do landscaping on the side and i did great when i used to have the explorer. A ranger can haul some equipment around on a small trailer no problem. Doing a couple mods to the engine and suspension wouldn't hurt. I do recommend putting add a leafs and or air shocks in the back. The springs tend to sag after a while on both rangers and explorers.

 

I pull a 7x14' open body utility trailer single axle..

I can safely haul 2 face cords of firewood...

I have hauled 4 facecords, however totally dangerous...

but 2FC your golden...

or, 3 cubic yards of top soil...

 

i have a 6x10 box trailer, its fine in town but at highway speeds its like pulling a parachute, gas milage drops to 10/12 from the normal non-towing of 17/19. it is nice to have a stoarge shed on wheels though... mine has the extra height, i can stand up in it, 6ft from floor to inside roof. 8ft tall overall tires to roof. a open trailer you could probly easily pull a 16 ft tandem axle. i wouldnt exceed 4,000 pounds total weight though.