tow bumper?

[thistlekicker]

My 93 Ranger has a "tow bumper", basically a step-up rear bumper with a hole to recieve a ball hitch. I need some help setting it up to tow a small boat.

Some tips to get started would be great, or at least understand what this project would entail. I do have a couple specific questions:

If the truck doesn't have a "tow package", will the wiring be difficult?

I bought it used so I don't have the manual - how do I determine load limits? I've seen similar trucks driving around with caved-in bumpers, I assume from trying to tow too heavy a load.

Thanks in advance,

TK

[Eric Wettschreck]

This is just my opinion but drop a hundo and get a receiver. Your truck, your back, and your trailer will thank you in the long run.

[anyfishwilldo]

A 93 Ranger doesn't have the power to pull anything with any size, so if you are only towing a small boat, you should be ok. The wiring is quite simple. If you go to Fleet Farm, or somewhere that sells trailer supplies, you can get a wiring harness that is vehicle specific. It will plug into your wiring harness for your tail lights on the truck. It is very simple, unhook one connector, and put the new one inline. They cost a little more, but it can eliminate corrosion problems down the line. You might also want to think about using a convert-a-ball hitch so if you have 2 different size couplers on trailers, you can easily change ball sizes.

[IFallsRon]

The receiver hitch is well worth the investment. Typical bumpers are designed for light-duty towing. With the receiver it's easier to swap out different size balls, too.

You should be able to put a T-plug in the wire harness behind the license plate for your electric. Kits for specific vehicles are available at Fleet and parts stores. Read the instructions and make sure you attach your ground wires properly.

[thistlekicker]

yeah I realize it will have to be a small boat due to the Ranger's power limitations - that's fine, and I thought since it will be a small boat the bumper hitch might be easier. But on the other hand I do like the idea of a receiver hitch.

At first glance it looks like most of the Class III hitch mounts are made for full-size pickups - this is definitely a compact truck so I wonder will be too wide to mount correctly? Any suggestions on where to look? Should I be looking for a car-sized receiver mount?

thanks to all - getting started and just knowing where to look can be tough. I appreciate the advice.

[IFallsRon]

U-Haul sells receivers.

[thistlekicker]

Quote:

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U-Haul sells receivers.

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cool man thanks I'll head up there this weeekend.

[anyfishwilldo]

Fleet Farm should also have one for that truck.

[ChuckN]

I had a '92 Ranger 4x4 4.0L V6 and I towed a lot of loads with that truck, mainly 16'-17' boats I owned. They will tow boats of this nature just fine, but depends on the motor. The 4.0L was a strong motor, I've owned 2 (also in an Explorer)

Get a Class III hitch that attaches to the frame of the truck and the wiring harness that simply plugs into the wiring in the undercarriage/bumper area like others have said.

[BobT]

A common problem with using the bumper is the height. When a trailer is not level while towing, it can cause handling problems or may not tow very true and therefore wander a bit.

How often I see bumpers bent upward because of this. The trailer tongue is up too high and a sudden application of the brakes sends the trailer pushing the bumper upward. This can also cause tow vehicle handling problems.

You're far better off installing an appropriate receiver and a correct hitch with appropriate drop or rise to fit the trailer height.

Bob

[thistlekicker]

how did I never notice this forum before? You guys are great - thanks again.