2006 Ford Ranger towing capacity chart
The 2006 Ford Ranger’s mix of capability, reliability, durability, and tremendous value too just as tough as ever. Ford Rangers prove their worth and live up to the reputation as one of America’s most popular compact pickups ready to roam far and wide, always on active duty. The Ranger with a striking front-end layout, an intelligently refined interior, and technology is undoubtedly a standout agent. In this article let’s take a look at the trim, cab styles, options, and the 2006 Ford Ranger towing capacity in detail.
| 2006 Ford Ranger trim levels | 2006 Ford Ranger towing capacity |
| Ford Ranger XL | 1,580 – 6,000 lbs. |
| Ford Ranger STX | 1,580 – 6,000 lbs. |
| Ford Ranger XLT | 1,580 – 6,000 lbs. |
| Ford Ranger SPORT | 2,560 – 5,680 lbs. |
| Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road | 3,120 – 5,580 lbs. |
| Ford Ranger FX4 Level II | 3,120 – 5,580 lbs. |
Table of Contents
2006 Ford Ranger Engine Specs
The 2006 Ford Ranger has a three-engine option to choose from which are listed below.
- The 2.3L DOHC I-4 16-valve dual overhead cam design produces solid horsepower and torque in a compact, efficient package. Sophisticated intake and exhaust camshaft profiles, throttle body, exhaust manifold design, and engine control calibration help boost highway performance. Advanced engineering delivers best-in-class fuel economy without sacrificing power.
- The 3.0L OHV V6 engine produces solid horsepower and torque in a compact, efficient package and is a rugged, reliable powerplant consistently posts some of the best mileage numbers.
- The 4.0L SOHC V6 generates maximum power of 207 hp and 238 lb.-ft. of torque are the numbers that count. Excellent torque gives you the edge for towing, hauling, and even rock-crawling (on 4WD models). It has a smooth-revving overhead cam design with an upper intake manifold engineered to deliver broad powerband.
A proven engine makes Ranger an adventure machine, providing excellent torque for towing or climbing trails. Whether you choose the 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain or explore all six trims, you’ll find a towing capacity that is further noteworthy of any pickup truck.
| Engine Type | 2.3L DOHC 16-VALVE I-4 Engine | 3.0L OHV 12-VALVE V6 Engine | 4.0L SOHC 12-VALVE V6 Engine |
| Maximum Power | 143 hp@ 5,250rpm | 148 hp @ 4,900 | 207 hp@ 5,250rpm |
| Maximium Torque | 154 lb.-ft.@ 3,750rpm | 180 lb.-ft. @ 3,950 | 238 lb.-ft.@ 3,000rpm |
2006 Ford Ranger Regular Cab 4X2 towing capacity
| 2.3L DOHC 16-VALVE I-4 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 /4.10 | 4,800 | 1,580 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 5,500 | 2,260 |
| 3.0L OHV 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 | 6,000 | 2,660 |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 6,000 | 2,500 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 | 6,000 | 2,620 |
| Automatic transmission | 7′ Box | 3.73 | 6,000 | 2,560 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 6,000 | 2,460 |
| 4.0L SOHC 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Automatic transmission | 7′ Box | 3.55 | 9,500 | 6,000 |
2006 Ford Ranger Regular Cab 4X4 towing capacity
| 3.0L OHV 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73/4.10 | 6,000 | 2,340 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 6,000 | 2,320 |
| 4.0L SOHC 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 7,000 | 3,220 |
| Automatic transmission | 7′ Box | 4.10 | 9,500 | 5,680 |
2006 Ford Ranger SuperCab 4X2 towing capacity
| 3.0L OHV 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 | 6,000 | 2,480 |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 6,000 | 2,340 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 | 6,000 | 2,440 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 6,000 | 2,300 |
| 4.0L SOHC 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 3.55 | 7,000 | 3400/3280 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 3.73 | 9,500 | 5,720 |
2006 Ford Ranger SuperCab 4X4 towing capacity
| 4.0L SOHC 12-VALVE V6 Engine | Box Size | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Loaded Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| Manual transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 7,000 | 3,120 |
| Automatic transmission | 6′ Box | 4.10 | 9,500 | 5,580 |
Note: Ford Ranger does not have an electric brake wiring provision. Certain states require electric trailer brakes over a specified trailer weight. In those states, the Ranger maximum trailer weight is limited to the state regulation. Please do check your state’s trailer weight regulations. The above-shown numbers may be offered only in combination with other options or subject to additional added requirements or limitations. Please do contact your Ford dealership or go through your individual vehicle owner's manual is the best source for the right information and guideance.
2006 Ford Ranger trims
A wide selection of body styles, trim levels, and options lets you build the truck that fits your work style and your lifestyle. Available in six trim levels XL, STX, XLT, Sport, FX4 OFF-ROAD, and FX4 Level II the 2006 Ranger is enhanced to provide greater fuel efficiency. Whether your idea of fun is 4×4 adventure or high-powered audio, a huge selection of body styles, trim levels, and options lets you build the truck that fits your work style and your lifestyle. Let’s find out more about all the details on the 2006 Ford Ranger trim levels below.
2006 Ford Ranger XL towing capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger XL trim includes all the essential features that make the Ranger pickup the right choice for every next adventure. The highlighted features are a Black bar-style grille, Black front & rear bumpers, Manual side view mirrors, 15″ steel wheels, AM/FM stereo with clock, Manual windows, Black vinyl floor covering, Black urethane steering wheel, and Vinyl 60/40 split bench seat (cloth on SuperCab). The maximum towing capacity of the 2006 Ford XL trim is between 1,580 to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
2006 Ford Ranger STX towing capacity
The key highlighted features of Ranger’s STX trim are a Black horizontal slat grille with body-color surround, Body-color front & rear bumpers, Body-color door handles & side view mirror caps, Fog lamps, 15″ split-spoke machined cast-aluminum wheels, Cloth sport bucket seats with red or blue two-tone inserts, Rear jump seats (4-door SuperCab only) and Black textured vinyl floor covering. The maximum towing capacity of the Ford 2006 STX trim is between 1,580 to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
2006 Ford Ranger XLT towing capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger XLT includes all Ranger STX features, plus more than ergonomics. The highlighted features are Air conditioning, Color-coordinated carpet and carpeted front floor mats, AM/FM stereo with single-CD player, Cloth 60/40 split bench seat 4×2: Black bar-style grille, Black front & rear bumpers, Black door handles & side view mirror caps 4×4: Chromed bar-style grille, Body-color front & rear bumpers, Fog lamps and Tow hooks. When equipped properly 2006 Ford Ranger XLT trim can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
2006 Ford Ranger Sport towing capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger Sport trim racks up style points and features a unique grille, body-color trim, and a range of wheels design and drivelines. The highlighted features are Body-color bar-style grille surround, Body-color front & rear bumpers, Body-color wheel-lip moldings & side view mirror caps, Black textured vinyl floor covering, Fog lamps, AM/FM stereo/cassette/single-CD player with MP3 capability (Dual-Media),16″ 5-spoke cast-aluminum wheels (SuperCab), Side step bars and Tow hooks. It can tow between a maximum of 2,520 to 5,680 pounds and carry 1,260 pounds of weight when equipped properly.
2006 Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road towing capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger FX4 OFF-ROAD trims include all the standard Ranger SPORT features. The highlighted features are a Body-color bar-style grille, Accent color front & rear bumpers, Limited-slip rear axle, Molded-in-color wheel-lip moldings, 2 skid plates, Premium shocks, 16″ 5-spoke cast-aluminum wheels, Black power side view mirrors, AM/FM stereo/single-CD player with clock, Leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with speed control, Power Equipment Group, Black textured vinyl floor covering with front slush-type floor mats and Sliding rear window. When equipped properly 2006 Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road can tow up to 5,580 pounds.
2006 Ford Ranger FX4 LEVEL II towing capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger FX4 Level II trim with standard equipment is Body-color bar-style grille, Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, Silver-tone front tow hooks, Black rear tow hook 15″ Alcoa® forged aluminum wheels with Dark Shadow Grey paint, 3 skid plates, Bilstein shocks, Chromed shifter on manual transmission, AM/FM stereo/cassette/single-CD player with MP3 capability (Dual-Media), and Rear vinyl jump seats. It can tow up to 5,580 pounds and carry 1,260 pounds of weight when equipped properly.
2006 Ford Ranger Payload Capacity
The maximum payload for your vehicle appears on the Tire and Loading label. The label is either on the B-pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The payload listed on the Tire and Loading Information label is the maximum payload for your vehicle as built by the assembly plant. If you install any additional equipment on your vehicle, you must determine the new payload. Subtract the weight of the equipment from the payload listed on the Tire and Loading label. The 2006 Ford Ranger’s payload capacity is up to 1,260 pounds when properly equipped.
Payload Package which includes increased rear spring rates and heavy-duty gas-charged shocks on 4×2 or increased rear spring rates and premium gas-charged shocks on 4×4 (not available on SPORT 4×2).
Note: Maximum capabilities shown are for properly equipped vehicles with the required equipment. The weight of additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo must be deducted from this weight. The suitable loading capacity of your vehicle can be limited either by volume capacity or by payload capacity. Once you have reached the maximum payload of your vehicle, do not add more cargo, even if there is space handy.
2006 Ford Ranger Trailer Tow Package
If you plan on doing a lot of towing along you’ll need the right accessories there are a number of towing accessories that are available. The 2006 Ford Ranger Trailer Tow Package comes with:
- 4-pin Trailer Wiring Harness (standard).
- Trailer tow-Class III hitch receiver.
- Tow hooks-2 black steel in front (4×4 only).
- Tow hooks-2 silver-tone steel in front and 1 black steel in the rear. (Note: Rear tow hook deleted with Trailer Tow option).
- Aux Auto Trans. Oil Cooler (Standard with the 3.0L/4.0L engine only).
Note: Always use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer or a reliable trailer dealer as soon as possible if you require assistance.
- Hitches
For towing trailers up to 2,000 lbs, use a weight-carrying hitch and ball which uniformly distributes the trailer tongue loads through the underbody structure. Do not install a single or multi-clamp type bumper hitch or a hitch that attaches to the axle. Underbody-mounted hitches are acceptable if they are installed properly. Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure all mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to prevent harmful gases or water from entering. - Safety chains
Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. Also, remember not to attach safety chains to the bumper. - Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations. Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase. The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the GVWR, not GCWR. - Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights are working. Contact your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps. - Trailer tow connector
The trailer tow connector is located under the rear bumper, on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Also Read: 2023 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2022 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2021 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2020 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2019 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2018 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2011 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2010 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2009 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2008 Ford Ranger towing capacity. 2007 Ford Ranger towing capacity.
2006 Ford Ranger Trailer Towing Guide
- Practice turning, stopping, and backing up before starting on a trip to get the feel of the vehicle-trailer combination. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.
- To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or neutral (manual transmission).
- Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended GVWR or the GAWR specified could result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, and vehicle rollover.
- Do not exceed the lowest rating capacity for your vehicle or trailer hitch. Overloading your vehicle or trailer hitch can impair your vehicle’s stability, loss of control, and handling.
- Make sure that the vertical load on the tow ball is between the minimum and maximum recommended weight at all times.
- Do not tow a trailer fitted with electric trailer brakes unless your vehicle is fitted with a compatible aftermarket electronic trailer brake controller.
- Place loads as low as possible and central to the axle of your trailer for the best stability of the trailer in an unloaded vehicle.
- After you have traveled 50 miles, thoroughly check your hitch, electrical connections, and trailer wheel lug nuts.
Note: Maximum capabilities shown are for properly equipped vehicles with the required equipment and a 150-lb. driver. The weight of additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo must be deducted from this weight. Ranger does not have an electric brake wiring provision. It requires electric trailer brakes over a specified trailer weight. Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury. For additional information, see your owner's manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my 2006 Ford Ranger tow?
The 2006 Ford Ranger’s compact size is a big advantage on tight trails and its noteworthy towing capabilities. When equipped properly with a trailer tow package pickup truck has up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity.
Aaron Bennett is an accomplished author and a true aficionado when it comes to pickup trucks. With an unwavering passion for all things automotive, Aaron has dedicated his life to exploring the world of pickups and sharing his expertise with others. As the proud owner of several powerful machines, he has spent countless hours behind the wheel, navigating rugged terrains and conquering highways with unrivaled enthusiasm.
