Recommendations for Setting Up a 2007 Ford Ranger to Tow a Trailer

Question:

Is this weight distributing for the Ranger? I would prefer a weight distributing hitch the best I can put on. What do you recommend? Also there is a capped plug that seems to be from the factory. Is there something I need to plug into that or replace it?

asked by: Randy R

Expert Reply:

The plug that you have capped is a standard 4 Flat wiring harness. This will power the lights on a trailer that does not utilize electric brakes. If you are planning on towing a trailer that does have brakes, you will need to add a few parts that will piggyback off of your existing 4 Flat. Our Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 will include the 7 Way plug and all the wiring, brackets, and circuit breakers needed to get a controller up and running.

For a brake controller, I suggest the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160. This is a very easy to use and set up controller and can be used on trailers with brakes on up to 3 axles.

For the weight distribution system, this will depend on the tongue weight of the trailer you will be towing. For example, the Reese Strait-Line # RP66082 will handle a tongue weight from 200 pounds at the minimum, up to 600 pounds at the maximum. What you really want to do is shoot for the middle of a system's capacity. If this system does get you to the correct weight, it is the one I recommend.

This would attach to the something like the Curt Class III Hitch # 13019. This will have a standard towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, but this increases to 6,000 pounds when a weight distribution system is used.

expert reply by: Lazer S