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theoldwizard1's avatar
theoldwizard1
Explorer II
Sep 23, 2017

Ford Transit (full size) for towing

Is anyone using a full sized Ford Transit as a tow vehicle ?
  • coolmom42 wrote:
    There are several different versions of the Transit, varying in length and load capability. IMHO you would want the 3500 version in the shorter length. The shorter length would have a little more load capacity than the longer one. I believe they all have the 3.5L Ecoboost, which will pull really well.

    EcoBoost is an option as is an inline 5 cylinder diesel (widely used for years outside of the US)

    coolmom42 wrote:
    You will need to look at the rated towing capacity, the hitch rating, if the hitch is intended to be used with weight distribution, and the cargo capacity of the vehicle to make any decision about suitability.

    The tow rating is rather low, especially compared to the old E-series.
  • It's by far the best driving van out there. Just beware it maxes out at 7500 pounds towing capacity, although many of the commercial outdoors guide companies pull way more.

    Also beware that tow ratings are based of a every seat being full, so the published rating for the T150 are higher than the T350 but the effective towing capacity of the T350 is higher when comparing the same occupant load, since it has slightly higher GCWRs due to gearing.
  • There are several different versions of the Transit, varying in length and load capability. IMHO you would want the 3500 version in the shorter length. The shorter length would have a little more load capacity than the longer one. I believe they all have the 3.5L Ecoboost, which will pull really well.

    You will need to look at the rated towing capacity, the hitch rating, if the hitch is intended to be used with weight distribution, and the cargo capacity of the vehicle to make any decision about suitability.