Anyone towing with a 2008 Ford Sport Trac 4.0

tackhammer wrote:
We have a ultralight TT 462 lb. tongue weight, loaded 3515 lbs. we also have a 2008 Ford Sport Trac with only 20k miles on it. It came with a factory 1 1/4 hitch with 350 tongue weight, 3500 tow weight. It has been impossible to find a 2" for it anywhere. The vehicle is is rated for 500 tongue and 5500 tow with a 2" hitch. It came from the factory wired for 7 pole connector, and I added a brake controller. Hitches are welded on at the factory. I have found a hitch guy that has measured the factory hitches 2" and 1 1/4" and found that the tubing is the same the receiver size is all that is deferent. He has offered me two options.
1. cut out the 1 1/4" and weld in a 2" receiver tube. $350.00
2. use the 1 1/4" receiver that is on it, and build a ball mount that has a solid 1 1/4 bar with a wide plate 1" hole for the 2 5/16's ball with a sway control ball off to the side. $85.00. I have been towing this trailer with a 2006 express 2500 van. So I don't even know the TT is back there. Does anyone know how the Sport Trac's tow? Just wandering before I spend any money. Thanks.

I personally wouldn't do either. I'd be uncomfortable unless I really trusted the welder and his competencies. I've known too many people load something up and say "that should make it" or "that might hold for a while". Not good enough for my loved ones. Best of luck to you.

FYI:
The 2008 Sport trac (according to the Ford towing guide) is rated for a max of 5,260 4x2 or 5,090 4x4 with the V6.

Link page 23.