
Introduction
Payload capacity is one of the most misunderstood specifications on a Ford Ranger. While enthusiasts obsess over lift height, tire size, and horsepower, very few stop to consider how much weight their truck was actually designed to carry. Whether you’re building an overland rig, hauling work equipment, or loading up for a weekend trail ride, exceeding your Ranger’s payload rating affects braking, handling, drivetrain longevity, and overall safety. Before bolting on steel bumpers, rooftop tents, drawer systems, and recovery gear “just in case,” it’s critical to understand what your truck can realistically handle — and why those numbers matter.
What Happens If You Exceed Payload Capacity?
Exceeding your Ford Ranger’s rated payload capacity puts stress on systems that were only engineered to operate safely within specific limits. While the truck may still move and drive, overloading can reduce braking performance, affect handling, increase heat in critical components, and accelerate wear. The consequences aren’t always immediate, but repeated overloading can shorten the life of major parts and reduce overall safety.
- Overheated brakes and reduced stopping power (brake fade)
- Increased stopping distances
- Engine and transmission overheating
- Premature transmission wear or failure
- Sagging or damaged suspension components
- Accelerated axle and wheel bearing wear
- Reduced steering control and stability
- Increased tire wear or blowout risk
- Potential legal and liability issues in the event of an accident
Understanding the Terms
Before diving into the year-by-year numbers, it’s important to understand what those ratings actually mean.
Maximum Payload
Maximum payload is the most weight your Ranger can carry in addition to its own curb weight. This includes passengers, cargo, tools, recovery gear, aftermarket accessories, and any factory options that weren’t part of the base configuration. If you add weight — whether it’s a steel bumper, rooftop tent, winch, or extra fuel — it reduces your available payload. Payload ratings assume the truck is properly equipped from the factory, and every additional pound must be subtracted from that number.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
GAWR is the maximum weight a single axle can safely support. Your Ranger has a front GAWR and a rear GAWR, listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver’s door or door pillar. Even if your total vehicle weight is within limits, you can still overload one axle — which is common when cargo is concentrated in the bed. The load carried by each axle must never exceed its individual GAWR.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the entire vehicle when fully loaded. That includes the truck itself, passengers, cargo, fuel, accessories — everything. This number is also listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Exceeding GVWR means the truck is operating beyond its engineered limits for suspension, braking, frame strength, cooling, and drivetrain components.
In simple terms: GVWR is the total limit, GAWR protects each axle individually, and payload is the remaining capacity available for everything you add to the truck.
Safety Compliance Certification Label
The Safety Compliance Certification label is on the driver’s door jamb and lists the trucks Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the front and rear Gross Axle Weight Ratings. see the example below. You can find scales at truck stops, landfills, and sand and gravel companies.

Tire and Loading Sticker
Beginning in 2005, Ford added a “Tire and Loading Information” label to the driver’s door jamb that clearly lists a truck’s maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo. For 2004 and older Rangers, however, that number isn’t spelled out so conveniently. Owners are left to interpret GVWR and axle ratings on their own — or guess.

1993-2023 Ford Ranger Payload Charts
The charts below provide the factory maximum payload ratings for each model year and configuration. From 1983-2011 the Ford Ranger had an optional payload package with an increased payload capacity generally referred to as ‘Payload Package 2’. From 1984-1989 there was also an optional ‘Camper Package’.
- Payload Package 2: Payload Package 2 included increased rear spring rates and heavy-duty gas-charged shocks. It also included 10-inch brake drums. If you have a standard cab Ford Ranger with a 7.5-Inch rear axle and 10-inch drum brakes, it has a payload package.
- Camper Package: A special Camper Package prepares the Ranger for aftermarket camper applications. It includes front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty shock absorbers, the optional 1,760/1,770-lb payload package, heavy-duty springs, P205/75R14XL BSW highway tires, and selected minimum axle ratio.
These payloads are broken down by year. If you have a Ford Ranger and the GVWR for your truck matches the GVWR and configuration under ‘Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)’ then your Ranger has the Payload Package.
2019-2023 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Payload (lbs) |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,860 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,650 |
| SuperCrew |
4×2 |
1,770 |
| SuperCrew |
4×4 |
1,560 |
Notes:
- 2019-2023 Ford Ranger models do not offer a separate Payload Package; payloads shown are for properly equipped vehicles with standard equipment.
2011 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,130 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,420 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,130 |
1,560 #2 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×4 |
1,370 |
1,500 #2 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| SuperCab 4×2 SWB |
5,100 |
| SuperCab 4×4 SWB |
5,280 |
Notes:
- #2 = Payload Package #2, includes upgraded rear springs and gas-charged shocks.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
2010 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,160 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,400 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,100 |
1,430 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×4 |
1,270 |
1,400 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| SuperCab 4×2 SWB |
5,100 |
| SuperCab 4×4 SWB |
5,280 |
Notes:
- #2 = Payload Package #2, includes upgraded rear springs and gas-charged shocks.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
2009 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,180 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,160 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
— |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,340 |
1,600 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×4 |
1,380 |
1,520 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| SuperCab 4×2 SWB |
5,100 |
| SuperCab 4×4 SWB |
5,280 |
Notes:
- #2 = Payload Package #2, includes upgraded rear springs and gas-charged shocks.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
2008 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 Sport |
1,540 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,500 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,500 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,560 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab SWB Sport |
4×2 |
4,840 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
4,720 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
5,000 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
5,040 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×2 |
5,000 |
| SuperCab SWB |
4×4 |
5,000 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was optional on 4×2 SWB and LWB; standard on 4×4 XLT and Sport models.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
2004–2007 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Ford brochures for 2004–2007 primarily list maximum loaded trailer weight rather than payload. Based on available information and comparison with 2001–2003 Rangers, typical max payload for properly equipped vehicles (Payload Package #2) is estimated around 1,540–1,560 lbs. Payload Package #2 is available on 4×2 and 4×4 models (not available on SPORT 4×2) and includes increased rear spring rates and heavy-duty gas-charged shocks on 4×2 or premium gas-charged shocks on 4×4.
| Year |
Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Estimated Max Payload (lbs) |
| 2004–2007 |
Regular Cab |
4×2 |
1,560 |
| 2004–2007 |
Regular Cab |
4×4 |
1,540 |
| 2004–2007 |
SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,560 |
| 2004–2007 |
SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,540 |
Notes:
- Estimated payload values based on comparison with 2001–2003 Ford Rangers and Payload Package #2 availability.
- Actual payload depends on equipment, options, and passengers; always consult your Ford Dealer for exact capacities.
- Payload Package #2 includes upgraded rear spring rates and heavy-duty shocks.
2001–2003 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
2001 Ford Ranger
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Max Payload (lbs) |
| Regular Cab |
4×2 |
1,640 |
| Regular Cab |
4×4 |
1,540 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,580 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,500 |
2002 Ford Ranger
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Max Payload (lbs) |
| Regular Cab |
4×2 |
1,640 |
| Regular Cab |
4×4 |
1,540 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,560 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,580 |
2003 Ford Ranger
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Max Payload (lbs) |
| Regular Cab |
4×2 |
1,640 |
| Regular Cab |
4×4 |
1,540 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,660 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,560 |
Notes:
- Maximum capabilities shown are for properly equipped vehicles (Payload Package #2) with required equipment and a 150-lb driver. Weight of additional options, passengers, and cargo must be deducted.
- Payload Package #2 includes increased rear spring rates and heavy-duty gas-charged shocks on 4×2, or increased rear spring rates and premium gas-charged shocks on 4×4.
- For additional information, see your Ford Dealer.
2000 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| Regular Cab |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,540 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,620 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,540 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 |
4,800 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 |
5,020 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,960 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,140 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 applies to applicable 4×2 and 4×4 trims.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1999 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,540 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,620 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,520 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,740 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,800 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,980 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
5,020 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,900 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,120 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 applies to applicable 4×2 and 4×4 trims.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1998 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,660 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,500 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,500 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
1,620 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,260 |
1,500 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,740 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,800 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,980 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
5,020 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,900 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,120 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 applies to applicable 4×2 and 4×4 trims.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1997 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,450 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,680 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,960 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,980 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,880 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,100 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was standard on 4×4 XLT and STX models.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1996 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,450 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,680 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,960 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,980 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,880 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,100 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was standard on 4×4 XLT and STX models.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1995 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,450 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,680 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,960 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
5,000 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,880 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,100 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was standard on STX 4×4 models.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1994 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Splash |
— |
1,050 |
— |
| Splash |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,500 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,450 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,660 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,880 |
| Regular Cab Splash 4×4 |
4,840 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,860 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,060 |
| SuperCab Splash 4×4 |
5,080 |
Notes:
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
- Payload Package #2 applies to applicable 4×2 and 4×4 trims as listed above.
- Splash trim is a special edition and has its own payload limits distinct from Regular Cab and SuperCab.
1993 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,250 |
1,650 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,240 |
1,550 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,250 |
1,500 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,660 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,700 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,840 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,880 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,820 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
5,040 |
Notes:
- All Base and Payload Package #2 numbers are shown. “—” would indicate an unavailable package (not applicable for 1993).
1992 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,200 |
1,400 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
— |
1,400 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,300 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,680 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,720 |
Notes:
- “—” in a table cell indicates the payload or package was not available for that configuration.
1991 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,700 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,200 |
1,400 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,200 |
1,400 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,300 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,640 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,680 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was included with Standard Cab 4×4 Sport, Custom, XLT, and STX trim levels.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
1990 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,700 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,200 |
1,400 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,200 |
1,400 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,260 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,300 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,600 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,640 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was included with Standard Cab 4×4 Custom, XLT, and STX trim levels.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
1989 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Payload Package #2 Ratings
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base Payload (lbs) |
Payload Package #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,700 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,620 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,400 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,360 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,300 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,300 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,580 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,580 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was available only on Regular Cab 4×2 models in 1989.
- If a configuration shows “—” under Payload Package #2, that configuration did not offer the package.
- Payload Package #2 was included with the optional Camper Package.
- Camper Package included front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty gas-pressurized shocks, heavy-duty front springs, Regular Cab Payload Package #2, and P215/70Rx14SL BSW all-season tires.
1988 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Payload Package #2 Ratings
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base Payload (lbs) |
Payload Package #2 (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,210 |
1,605 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,210 |
1,625 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,205 |
1,600 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,210 |
1,590 |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,310 |
1,505 |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,300 |
1,610 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,320 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,340 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,540 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,580 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,540 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
4,900 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was included with the optional Camper Package on Regular Cab 2WD SWB/LWB models.
- Camper Package included front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty gas-pressurized shocks, heavy-duty front springs, and P215/70Rx14SL BSW all-season tires.
- 1,590 lb payload was available on Regular Cab LWB 4×4 models equipped with the optional heavy-duty front suspension.
1987 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
Camper (Pkg #3) (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,220 |
1,630 |
1,780 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,210 |
1,625 |
— |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,205 |
1,600 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,210 |
1,590 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,330 |
1,625 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,340 |
1,615 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,260 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,300 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,480 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,500 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,620 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
4,800 |
Camper Package / Payload Package #3 GVWR
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,460 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,500 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 was available on Custom and XLT Regular Cab 4×2 SWB/LWB, 4×4 SWB/LWB, and SuperCab 4×4 SWB/LWB.
- Payload Package #3 (Camper Package) was available only on 2WD Regular Cab SWB/LWB models and includes: front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty gas-pressurized shocks, heavy-duty front springs, and P215/70Rx14SL BSW all-season tires.
- 1,590 lb payload was available on Regular Cab LWB 4×4 with optional heavy-duty front suspension only.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
1986 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
Camper (Pkg #3) (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,220 |
1,610 |
1,760 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,220 |
1,610 |
1,760 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,225 |
1,635 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,230 |
1,620 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×2 |
1,365 |
1,600 |
— |
| SuperCab |
4×4 |
1,215 |
1,625 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,260 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,300 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,480 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,500 |
| SuperCab 4×2 |
4,480 |
| SuperCab 4×4 |
4,740 |
Camper Package / Payload Package #3 GVWR
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,420 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,460 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #3 (Camper Package) was available only on 2WD Regular Cab SWB/LWB models and includes front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty gas-pressurized shocks, heavy-duty front springs, 1,760-lb payload package, P205/75R14SL BSW all-season steel-belted tires, and selected minimum axle ratio.
- A similar Camper Package was also available for the Regular Cab 4×4 model.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
- For further information regarding recommended equipment for camper applications, refer to the 1986 Ford Recreation Vehicles catalog from your Ford Dealer.
1985 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
Camper (Pkg #3) (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,215 |
1,605 |
1,755 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,615 |
1,765 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,215 |
1,625 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,220 |
1,610 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,240 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,280 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,440 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,480 |
Camper Package / Payload Package #3 GVWR
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,400 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,440 |
Notes:
- A special Camper Package prepares the Ranger for aftermarket camper applications. It includes front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty shock absorbers, the optional 1,755/1,765-lb payload package, heavy-duty springs, P205/75R14SL BSW all-season tires, and selected minimum axle ratio. Content varies slightly depending on engine and transmission choice.
- A similar package is offered for 4×4 models. Consult the 1985 Ford Recreation Vehicles catalog for details on required or recommended equipment for trailer towing or camper applications.
- Heavy-duty front suspension (4×4 models) with 2,750-lb GAWR includes heavy-duty front springs with air bag, heavy-duty frame, heavy-duty front and rear shock absorbers, auxiliary transmission oil cooler with automatic overdrive, 1,600-lb payload package, 3.45 axle with 2.8L engine, and 5-speed transmission on long-wheelbase models.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
1984 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
Camper (Pkg #3) (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×2 |
1,235 |
1,610 |
1,760 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×2 |
1,220 |
1,620 |
1,770 |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4×4 |
1,230 |
1,620 |
— |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4×4 |
1,210 |
1,620 |
— |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,220 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,260 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 SWB |
4,420 |
| Regular Cab 4×4 LWB |
4,480 |
Camper Package / Payload Package #3 GVWR
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab 4×2 SWB |
4,380 |
| Regular Cab 4×2 LWB |
4,420 |
Notes:
- A special Camper Package prepares the Ranger for aftermarket camper applications. It includes front and rear stabilizer bars, heavy-duty shock absorbers, the optional 1,760/1,770-lb payload package, heavy-duty springs, P205/75R14XL BSW highway tires, and selected minimum axle ratio.
- Content varies slightly depending on engine and transmission choice. For camper application, the 2.3L I-4 engine is the required minimum. Heavy-duty battery, automatic transmission, super engine cooling, and low-mount western swingaway mirrors are recommended.
- A similar package is offered for 4×4 models. Consult the 1984 Ford Recreation Vehicles catalog or your Ford Dealer for details on required or recommended equipment for trailer towing or camper applications.
- “—” in a table cell indicates the package was not available for that configuration.
1983 Ford Ranger Payload Ratings
Base & Optional Payloads
| Configuration |
Drivetrain |
Base (lbs) |
Pkg #2 (lbs) |
| SWB |
4×2 |
1,210 |
1,620 |
| LWB |
4×2 |
1,200 |
1,605 |
Payload Package #2 Identification (GVWR)
| Configuration |
GVWR (lbs) |
| Regular Cab SWB |
4,200 |
| Regular Cab LWB |
4,220 |
Notes:
- Payload Package #2 includes power brakes, heavy-duty rear springs, and a 2,700-lb capacity rear axle.
- “—” in a table cell would indicate the package was not available for that configuration (not applicable for 1983).
Related Resources
Ford Ranger Owners Manuals
Ford Ranger Brochures (lists payload capacities)
Ford Towing Guides – Blue Oval Trucks
Related Articles
Tire Load & Speed Ratings
Towing Trailers
Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road adventures contributed by owners worldwide. TheRangerStation.com has been referenced in print, video and online by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, and experience-based information.