Another "Can I tow this" thread...

Granger · Oct 10, 2013

I'm sure there's been lots of threads about this already but I'm going to throw it out there cause I'd like to here your opinion on my specific problem..

I need to tow a 99 ford escort zx2 with my truck. (I have listed the specs of both vehicles below).

Tow Rig
1986 Ford Ranger
2.9 Liter
4x4
single cab
F6 rear end (LSD with 3.73 gears)
178k miles on the clock
larger 4.0 radiator
Crappy 5 speed Mitsubishi Transmission (code on the door for transmission said "D")

Towing vehicle
1999 Ford escort
FWD
weighs 2478lbs
Car dolly weighs 750lbs
Total towing weight 3228lbs (optional tow bar towing weight is 2500lbs)

I need to tow the escort over a distance of 679 miles (12 hours). I need to drive the truck 12 hours to pick it up, and then haul it 12 hours back. Is this safely do-able? could the brakes support the weight? In looking at my owners manual it suggests a GCVW of 5000lbs for my set up and suggests towing 0-2000lbs. But I'm in a bind and this is the only realistic solution (uhaul quoted $1170 to do it). A uhaul dolly weighs 750lbs so my total towing weight is 3228lbs. Or I could get a tow bar, which would make my weight at 2500lbs.. but still over capacity.

adsm08 · Oct 10, 2013

There is safe, and there is doable.

Is it safe? Probably not.

Can it be done? I'm pretty sure I've done worse.

Lil-Pony · Oct 10, 2013

It doable since its a ford

Just drive safe and a little slower than the speed limit...

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Granger · Oct 10, 2013

also, It's registered as an antique (because I only drive it on weekends). one of the rules of an antique vehicle is that I can't travel more than 250 miles of my house.. I will be traveling 670 miles from my house... scarry.

What is the weak point that I should watch? the 5th gear on my transmission? clutch when starting on a hill? my brakes not stopping all the weight?

Captain Ledd · Oct 10, 2013

With that much weight you need a receiver hitch. Don't tow that with a bumper.

Driving there with 5th gear shouldn't be too much of an issue, on the way back with the car attached, I'd keep it in 4th. 60mph tops should do fine.

If your brakes are in good shape you should be fine. If it's going to rain or is wet out, leave a LOT more stopping distance.

The clutch is unfortunately going to have to deal with it. in certain circumstances it's ok to let the engine lug just a little, slip the clutch just enough to get you moving and just be patient, don't stomp on the gas either until the RPM's are up. Obviously don't let the RPM's get so low the engine shudders and tries to escape from under the hood.

Also since it's an Escort you won't attract much attention. It's a small car. Nothing will look out of place.

Granted I'm in Michigan, but I even had a cop behind me for a while while dragging this beast across the state. And I've got a 4 cylinder!

Granger · Oct 10, 2013

Yes, i have a tow hitch, rated at 4,000lbs. I should have mentioned that. The brakes dont feel that great though even without towing things..

That picture makes me feel a lot more confident though! That's crazy heavy on a 4 cyl!

Captain Ledd · Oct 10, 2013

LOL, I won't say it entirely enjoyed it, but it did it. AND managed to maintain 60 the short stint we did on the highway.

Rangurr · Oct 10, 2013

Ehh, I've towed worse with my 2.3 ('05 Burb broke - Chevy thing... -_-). My truck was not amused on any measurable incline but she did it. Don't expect to stop on a dime though... Also, don't be an idiot and try to head out with the swaybar disconnected if your load outweighs you by that much.... I had to stop and buy new links because I was being tugged around so much. They helped a little bit.

1993rangerxl · Nov 13, 2013

I have a '93 Ranger about to turn up 300,000 miles. The last 160,000 I have used the truck truck for my new business, hauling anything that will fit both in the truck and the 5X8 cargo trailer. About 6 weeks ago took 2 motorcycles from Fla to N.J. then 2 larger motorcycles plus a 1950 Willy's jeepster 6 cylinder motor & trans plus a 3 piece sectional sofa from Boston back to Fla. Gross weight of 7780 lbs. And with a stock 4 banger!
I have towed an 89 Celica on said tow dolly with a 400lb fridge in the bed of truck, weighed only 8120 gross! I think you could do the Escort!

bmerr98 · Nov 14, 2013

If your brakes are feeling less than top notch you might flush the old fluid from the lines before you go if you have time. It's probably pretty well cooked and it'll be working harder than usual on the way home. I think you'll be fine with plenty of stopping distance and some horse sense. Don't get in a hurry. Rangers are some of the most underrated vehicles out there.

Another "Can I tow this" thread...

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