Towing Capacity Question

[Chuck Richards]

We are considering upgrading our camper. While researching we came upon some confusing info about the towing capacity of our ST. We have a 2007 ST, 4.6 L V-8, 4wd, 6 speed Auto Trans with a factory towing package. The data sticker on the door says GVWR 6248 pounds and the manual says a GCVWR of 11,600 pounds. By my math that leaves a usable towing weight of 5,352 pounds.



Every chart I can find online and even the Ford website show between 6,800 ond 7,000 pounds as the rated towing capacity.



Am I missing something? Does anyone know what the real number is and where I can find it to show my wife?

 

[Lloyd Curry]

This is straight out of the spec sheet for my 2007 4.6 V8:



Class III/IV Trailer Tow Package

Allows Explorer Sport Trac to tow up to 7160 lbs.

(4.6L 3-valve V-8 4x2)

XLT and Limited models

Includes trailer wiring harness, 7-pin and 4

connectors and frame-mounted hitch receiv

Maximum Towing Capability

(with Trailer Tow Package)

5250 lbs. 4x2 automatic (4.0L 2-valve V-6)

5080 lbs. 4x4 automatic (4.0L 2-valve V-6)

7160 lbs. 4x2 automatic (4.6L 3-valve V-8)

6990 lbs. 4x4 automatic (4.6L 3-valve V-8)

 

[Brian McDonald]

I agree, I tow a 21 foot trailer with no issues at except for gas consumption :cheeky:

 

[Johnny O]

However using your math assumes the Sport Trac is also loaded to its maximum capacity and that is the towing weight left. The maximum towing capacity (I'm 99% sure) is with an otherwise empty truck. So the 11,600 GCVW - 6990 Max Tow Capacity = 4610, which is about what a Trac weighs.