Forum Discussion

_DJ_1's avatar
_DJ_1
Explorer II
Feb 07, 2019

Flat towing a pre 2011 Ford Ranger

If this has been posted before I could not find it.

I would like to buy a Ranger for a future toad. I Googled it but got too many mixed answers.

Please advise if this is correct.

A RWD Ranger with manual transmission can be towed in neutral with no problems.

A RWD with auto transmission you need a driveline disconnect.

A 4X4 with either transmission needs a transfer case pump as there is no neutral on the transfer case.

Checking the owners manual would be the best but rigs this old with the manuals are scarce.

Thanks......DJ
  • Heisenberg's avatar
    Heisenberg
    Explorer
    Feb 20, 2019
    4X4 2015 Colorado/Canyon a breeze through 2017 that I know of. It will be in the manual ..............
  • D_E_Bishop's avatar
    D_E_Bishop
    Explorer
    Feb 19, 2019
    After making the above post I found this part, 3L2Z-7H332-AA. I verified the number with Ford.

    Now I'm looking a other possibilities, like an Chevy Colorado or Dodge Dakota.
  • D_E_Bishop's avatar
    D_E_Bishop
    Explorer
    Feb 17, 2019
    JoeH wrote:
    Neutral Tow Kit for Rangers from Ford lists 2007 and up -- I had a 2011 with the NTK ( automatic tranny) and towed for several years with no issues. It is essentially a reprogram of the computer with a LED indicator light added to show that you are indeed in neutral

    https://accessories.ford.com/neutral-tow-kit-9818.html


    The Remco towing guide says that Rangers with 4X4 must have a manual transfer case and auto trans. I am looking at pre-2005 as a replacement for both my towed(Suzi Sidekick) and my F150(now the grandsons).

    Does anyone flat tow an earlier Ranger 4X4 with an automatic transfer case and auto trans?
  • JoeH's avatar
    JoeH
    Explorer III
    Feb 17, 2019
    Neutral Tow Kit for Rangers from Ford lists 2007 and up -- I had a 2011 with the NTK ( automatic tranny) and towed for several years with no issues. It is essentially a reprogram of the computer with a LED indicator light added to show that you are indeed in neutral

    https://accessories.ford.com/neutral-tow-kit-9818.html
  • Captain_Happy's avatar
    Captain_Happy
    Explorer
    Feb 08, 2019
    I use to tow a 2010 Ranger, 2 wheel drive manual tranny. Put tranny in neutral and unlock steering wheel. Not sure about the 4 X 4 models.
  • Hank85713's avatar
    Hank85713
    Explorer
    Feb 07, 2019
    There are some standards (4x4) that have peculiar towing requirements. Friend towed a bronco in neutral, ate up the transmission. Guess it has to be in gear and the transfer case in neutral! So be sure to read up on what can cant be towed even if a standard trans. My 94 ranger per the manual can be, later models??
  • Tal_IL's avatar
    Tal_IL
    Explorer
    Feb 07, 2019
    I towed a '95 Ranger 2WD with manual transmission in neutral for several years with no issues.
  • Y-Guy's avatar
    Y-Guy
    Moderator
    Feb 07, 2019
    Lot of options, I'd suggest finding an online owners manual, but I also find the Remco Towing Store to be helpful since can change the various options you mention and it will tell you what's needed.

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