From the 2004 Ranger Owners manual:
RECREATIONAL TOWING
Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational towing. An example of recreational towing would be towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not damaged.
4x2 vehicles equipped with a manual transmission:
Note: 4x2 vehicles with a manual transmission follow these guidelines for recreational towing:
Before you have your vehicle towed:
• Release the parking brake.
• Move the gearshift to the neutral position.
• Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF/UNLOCKED position.
• The maximum recommended speed is 55 mph (88 km/h).
• The maximum recommended distance is unlimited.
• The vehicle must be towed in the forward position to ensure no damage is done to the internal transmission components.
In addition, it is recommended that you follow the instructions provided by the aftermarket manufacturer of the towing apparatus if one has been installed.
Vehicles equipped with automatic transmission and 4x4 vehicles
equipped with an electronic-shift transfer case and a manual
transmission:
4x2 vehicles with automatic transmissions, 4x4 vehicles with an
electronic-shift transfer case and automatic transmission and 4x4
vehicles equipped with an electronic-shift transfer case and manual transmission follow these guidelines for recreational towing:
• Release the parking brake.
• Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF/UNLOCKED position.
• Place the transmission in N (Neutral).
• Do not exceed a distance of 50 miles (80 km).
• Do not exceed 35 mph (56 km/h) vehicle speed.
• The vehicle must be towed in the forward position to ensure no
damage is done to the internal transfer case components.
If a distance of 50 miles (80 km) or a speed of 35 mph (56 km/h) must be exceeded, you must disconnect the front (4x4 only) and rear driveshafts. Ford recommends the driveshafts be removed/installed only by a qualified technician. See your local dealer for driveshaft removal/installation.
Improper removal/installation of the driveshaft can cause transmission fluid or transfer case fluid loss, damage to the driveshaft and internal transmission and transfer case components.
