96 4.0 noob questions

[fireant]

Hello, I recently acquired a pristine 96 4L Ranger, and the hole for a tow hitch on the rear bumper still has its plastic stopper.

I have a 5x8 trailer that I would consider a medium duty/weight...Its larger and heavier than the average harbor freight stuff, but its still just two 14" wheels and no brakes. I'd guess its ~300lbs?

I am wondering if I can use such a trailer with the stock ball hitch on the bumper, or should I get a towing kit for it?

 

[Earl43P]

I'd try to snag an OEM hitch from a junkyard Ranger.
These bumpers aren't very stout.

 

[swtjames23]

You can tow up to 2000 lbs on the bumper with no problems. I think the tounge weight rating is something like 200 or 300 lbs though so load accordingly

 

[pcollins]

I've seen rangers towing things heavier than the truck itsself on the bumper. You'll be fine.

 

[Colin]

try and grab a hitch, i've noticed that the part of the bumper where the ball sits likes to bend away from the truck after a while

 

[fireant]

Thanks guys. I think I'll look for a tow hitch kit, but its good to know that I can use the bumper if needed before then.