Page 134 of 272
4x2 w/manual transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
Regular Cab w/6’ box
2.3L All 4800 (2177) 1580 (716) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
2.3L
SportAll 4800 (2177) 1520 (689) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2640 (1198) 50 (4.64)
3.0L*
SportAll 6000 (2722) 2580 (1170) 50 (4.64)
Regular Cab w/7’ box
2.3L All 4800 (2177) 1540 (698) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2600 (1179) 50 (4.64)
SuperCab
2.3L All 4800 (2177) 1420 (644) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2460 (1116) 50 (4.64)
3.0L*
SportAll 6000 (2722) 2280 (1034) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 7000 (3175) 3400 (1542) 50 (4.64)
4.0L
SportAll 7000 (3175) 3220 (1460) 50 (4.64)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 1,000 ft. (300
meters) elevation.
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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4x2 w/manual transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
*When towing on roads with steep grades or moderate but long
sustained grades (5 miles [8 km] or more), or when ambient
temperatures exceed 100°F (37°C), vehicle speed should not exceed
45 mph (72 km/h) in both cases.
For definition of terms used in this table seeVehicle Loadingearlier
in this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your particular
vehicle, seeVehicle Loadingearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
The Ranger is capable of pulling the maximum trailer weight(s) as
specified above. Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers
over a specified weight. The Ranger vehicle electrical system is not
equipped to accommodate electric trailer brakes.
4x4 w/manual transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
Regular Cab w/6’ box
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2360 (1070) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 7000 (3175) 3280 (1487) 50 (4.64)
Regular Cab w/7’ box
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2300 (1043) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 7000 (3175) 3240 (1469) 50 (4.64)
SuperCab
4.0L All 7000 (3175) 3140 (1424) 50 (4.64)
2008 Ranger(ran)
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USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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4x4 w/manual transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 1,000 ft. (300
meters) of elevation.
*When towing on roads with steep grades or moderate but long
sustained grades (5 miles [8 km] or more), or when ambient
temperatures exceed 100°F (37°C), vehicle speed should not exceed
45 mph (72 km/h) in both cases.
For definition of terms used in this table, seeVehicle loadingearlier in
this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your vehicle, see
Vehicle loadingearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
The Ranger is capable of pulling the maximum trailer weight(s) as
specified above. Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers
over a specified weight. The Ranger vehicle electrical system is not
equipped to accommodate electric trailer brakes.
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Page 137 of 272

4x2 w/automatic transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
Regular Cab w/6’ box
2.3L All 5500 (2495) 2240 (1016) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
2.3L
SportALL 5500 (2495) 1960 (889) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2600 (1179) 50 (4.64)
3.0L*
SportAll 6000 (2722) 2520 (1143) 50 (4.64)
Regular Cab w/7’ box
2.3L All 5500 (2495) 2220 (1006) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2560 (1161) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 9500 (4309) 6000 (2722) 50 (4.64)
SuperCab
2.3L All 5500 (2495) 2080 (943) Equal to
frontal area
of vehicle
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2420 (1098) 50 (4.64)
3.0L*
SportAll 6000 (2722) 2240 (1016) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 9500 (4309) 5860 (2658) 50 (4.64)
4.0L
SportAll 9500 (4309) 5680 (2576) 50 (4.64)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 1,000 ft. (300
meters) elevation.
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Page 138 of 272

4x2 w/automatic transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
*When towing on roads with steep grades or moderate but long
sustained grades (5 miles [8 km] or more), or when ambient
temperatures exceed 100°F (37°C), vehicle speed should not exceed
45 mph (72 km/h) in both cases.
For definition of terms used in this table seeVehicle Loadingearlier
in this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your particular
vehicle, seeVehicle loadingearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
The Ranger is capable of pulling the maximum trailer weight(s) as
specified above. Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers
over a specified weight. The Ranger vehicle electrical system is not
equipped to accommodate electric trailer brakes.
4x4 w/automatic transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
Regular Cab w/6’ box
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2320 (1052) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 9500 (4309) 5740 (2603) 50 (4.64)
Regular Cab w/7’ box
3.0L* All 6000 (2722) 2260 (1025) 50 (4.64)
4.0L All 9500 (4309) 5680 (2576) 50 (4.64)
SuperCab
4.0L All 9500 (4309) 5600 (2540) 50 (4.64)
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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4x4 w/automatic transmission
Engine Rear axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
trailer
weight - lb.
(kg)Maximum
frontal area
of trailer -
ft
2(m2)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 1,000 ft. (300
meters) of elevation.
*When towing on roads with steep grades or moderate but long
sustained grades (5 miles [8 km] or more), or when ambient
temperatures exceed 100°F (37°C), vehicle speed should not exceed
45 mph (72 km/h) in both cases.
For definition of terms used in this table, seeVehicle loadingearlier in
this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your vehicle, see
Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/towearlier in this
chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
The Ranger is capable of pulling the maximum trailer weight(s) as
specified above. Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers
over a specified weight. The Ranger vehicle electrical system is not
equipped to accommodate electric trailer brakes.
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
certification label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer
weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in
engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Page 140 of 272

Preparing to tow
Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. See your authorized dealer or a
reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.
Hitches
For towing trailers up to 2,000 lb. (907 kg), use a weight carrying hitch
and ball which uniformly distributes the trailer tongue loads through the
underbody structure. Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for
trailers over 2,000 lb. (907 kg).
Do not install a single or multi-clamp type bumper hitch, or a hitch
which attaches to the axle. Underbody mounted hitches are acceptable if
they are installed properly. Follow the towing instructions of a reputable
rental agency.
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure all
mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to prevent noxious
gases or water from entering.
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.
Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough
braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.
The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your
authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and
equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.
Using a step bumper (if equipped)
The optional step bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and requires
only a ball with a 3/4 inch (19 mm) shank diameter. The bumper has a
2,000 lb. (907 kg) trailer weight and 200 lb. (91 kg) tongue weight
capability.
The rated capacities (as shown in this guide) for trailer towing with the
factory bumper are only valid when the trailer hitch ball is installed
directly into the ball hole in the bumper. Addition of bracketry to either
lower the ball hitch position or extend the ball hitch rearward will
significantly increase the loads on the bumper and its attachments. This
can result in the failure of the bumper or the bumper attachments. Use
of any type of hitch extensions should be considered abuse.
Trailer tow connector
The trailer tow connector is located
under the rear bumper, on the
driver’s side of the vehicle.
1
2
34
2008 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
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