How much can a Ford Bronco tow?
``` 2026 Ford Bronco Towing Guide
How Much Can a Ford Bronco Tow?
Most properly equipped 2026 Ford Bronco models can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Bronco Raptor raises the maximum to 4,500 pounds. But the number on the brochure is only the beginning: engine, equipment, trailer tongue weight, passengers, cargo and trailer size all matter when deciding what your Bronco can safely tow.
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``` Quick Answer: Most Broncos Tow 3,500 Pounds; Raptor Tows 4,500
Most properly equipped 2026 Ford Bronco configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
That includes applicable 2-Door and 4-Door Broncos with the 2.3L EcoBoost or available 2.7L EcoBoost V6.
Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds with its standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and Raptor towing equipment.
Ford also specifies a maximum hitch tongue load of 350 pounds for conventional Bronco and 450 pounds for Bronco Raptor.
For trailers over 2,000 pounds, Ford requires the applicable dealer-installed towing equipment on conventional Bronco configurations.
3,500 LBSMost Bronco Models
4,500 LBSBronco Raptor Maximum
350 LBSBronco Hitch Tongue Limit
450 LBSRaptor Hitch Tongue Limit
```
``` 2026 Ford Bronco Towing Capacity Chart
Ford's published ratings show that body style and engine choice do not automatically change the conventional Bronco's 3,500-pound maximum.
| Bronco Configuration | Engine | Transmission | Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronco 2-Door | 2.3L EcoBoost | 7-Speed Manual | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Bronco 2-Door | 2.3L EcoBoost | 10-Speed Automatic | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Bronco 2-Door | 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | 10-Speed Automatic | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Bronco 4-Door | 2.3L EcoBoost | 7-Speed Manual | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Bronco 4-Door | 2.3L EcoBoost | 10-Speed Automatic | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Bronco 4-Door | 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | 10-Speed Automatic | Up to approximately 3,500 lbs depending on exact configuration |
| Bronco Raptor 4-Door | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 10-Speed Automatic | Up to 4,500 lbs |
The maximum rating is configuration-specific. Ford's detailed towing chart includes individual axle ratios, trims and option combinations. Certain specific configurations can have a rating slightly below the headline 3,500-pound figure. Always verify the rating of the exact Bronco rather than assuming every vehicle automatically carries the maximum.
``` 
``` Engine Choice
Does the 2.7L V6 Bronco Tow More Than the 2.3L?
Not necessarily.
This is one of the most important Bronco towing facts to understand.
The 2.7L EcoBoost produces substantially more torque than the 2.3L, but Ford still rates most properly equipped conventional Bronco configurations at a maximum of 3,500 pounds.
The 2.3L EcoBoost produces up to 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 reaches up to 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft.
That extra V6 torque may make towing feel easier during acceleration or on grades, but it does not automatically increase the trailer rating.
```
``` How Much Can Bronco Raptor Tow?
Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Raptor uses a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing up to 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque.
Ford includes the Raptor Tow Package 2 as standard equipment.
Bronco Raptor Tow Limits
Maximum Trailer Weight:
4,500 lbs
Maximum Tongue Load:
450 lbs
Maximum Trailer Frontal Area:
40 sq. ft.
Raptor gives Bronco buyers approximately 1,000 pounds of additional maximum trailer capacity over most conventional Bronco configurations.
```
``` Bronco Hitch Receiver Capacity
Trailer rating and hitch rating are related, but both limits must be respected.
Conventional Ford Bronco
Ford lists the dealer-installed OEM hitch receiver at a maximum weight-carrying trailer capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Maximum tongue load is 350 pounds.
The receiver does not automatically include every ball mount, hitch ball or trailer-specific component you may need.
Bronco Raptor
Bronco Raptor's hitch receiver is rated for up to 4,500 pounds of trailer weight.
Maximum tongue load is 450 pounds.
All vehicle, trailer, hitch and load limits must still be respected.
```
``` What Towing Equipment Does a Ford Bronco Need?
Ford's 2026 towing guide states that the Trailer Tow Prep Package is included on Bronco models other than Raptor.
To actually hitch a trailer, applicable conventional Bronco models require the dealer-installed OEM trailer hitch receiver and towing equipment.
For trailers weighing more than 2,000 pounds, Ford specifically requires dealer-installed towing equipment.
Bronco Raptor includes its higher-capacity Raptor Tow Package 2 as standard equipment.
If towing is part of your Bronco purchase, verify the exact vehicle's installed towing equipment before assuming it is ready to connect to your trailer.
```
``` Bronco Towing Equipment Can Include
- OEM trailer hitch receiver
- 7-wire harness
- 4-pin / 7-pin trailer connector
- Trailer module
- Trailer Sway Control
- Front tow hooks
- Applicable Lane Keeping Alert integration
Raptor Adds More Standard Tow Capability
Raptor's towing configuration supports its 4,500-pound maximum rating and includes additional towing-oriented equipment from the factory.
Exact content varies by trim, powertrain and current production configuration.
Always check the Monroney label, build information or vehicle-specific equipment before purchase.
```
``` Tongue Weight May Matter More Than the 3,500-Pound Headline
Maximum trailer weight is only one of the numbers you need to check.
Ford lists a maximum tongue load of 350 pounds for conventional Bronco and 450 pounds for Bronco Raptor.
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer places on the hitch.
That weight is also part of the load being carried by the Bronco, along with passengers, luggage, aftermarket accessories and other cargo.
A trailer can be below 3,500 pounds and still be an improper match if tongue weight or another vehicle limit is exceeded.
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``` Example: 3,000-Pound Loaded Trailer
A 3,000-pound loaded trailer is below a conventional Bronco's 3,500-pound headline maximum.
But you still need to verify:
- Actual tongue weight
- Bronco payload
- Passenger weight
- Cargo inside the Bronco
- GCWR
- Required hitch equipment
- Trailer brakes where applicable
Why This Matters
Families rarely tow with an empty SUV.
People, coolers, camping gear, tools and accessories all add weight.
A Bronco loaded for a weekend trip therefore has a different towing situation from an otherwise identical Bronco carrying only the driver.
Tow ratings are limits, not permission to ignore the rest of the vehicle's weight ratings.
```
``` What Is GCWR?
GCWR means Gross Combined Weight Rating.
It is the maximum permitted combined weight of the loaded Bronco and loaded trailer under the applicable configuration.
Ford specifically states that the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer cannot exceed the listed GCWR.
Why It Matters
Imagine two identical trailers.
One Bronco carries only a driver.
Another carries four passengers, luggage, camping equipment and accessories.
The trailer is identical, but the total combined load is not.
That is why towing has to be evaluated as an entire vehicle-and-trailer system.
```
``` Ford Bronco Also Has a Trailer Frontal-Area Limit
This is easy to overlook because most trailer advertisements focus almost entirely on weight.
Ford lists a maximum trailer frontal area of 30 square feet for conventional Bronco configurations rated at 3,500 pounds or less with the required towing equipment.
Bronco Raptor with its towing package allows up to 40 square feet.
Frontal area is essentially the amount of trailer surface pushing through the air.
A tall box-shaped camper can create much more aerodynamic drag than a low utility trailer even when both weigh the same amount.
That makes frontal area particularly important when shopping for a camper.
```
``` What Can a Ford Bronco Tow?
Bronco works best with smaller recreational and utility trailers rather than large family campers.
Small Utility Trailers
Bronco can be a useful tow vehicle for appropriately sized utility trailers carrying landscaping supplies, home-improvement materials, furniture or recreational equipment.
Remember that the trailer plus everything loaded onto it determines actual loaded weight.
Personal Watercraft
Many personal-watercraft trailer combinations can fall well within Bronco's capability.
Include the trailer, fuel and equipment when calculating the load.
Small Boats
Certain smaller fishing and recreational boats can fit within Bronco ratings when the complete boat-and-trailer combination remains within the exact vehicle's limits.
Batteries, fuel and onboard gear all add weight.
Small Campers
Some lightweight campers can work with Bronco, but camper shopping requires more caution because trailers can gain substantial weight after water, propane, batteries and camping gear are added.
Frontal area is also important.
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``` Can a Ford Bronco Tow a Camper?
Yes, but think small and lightweight.
A properly equipped conventional Bronco has a 3,500-pound maximum, while Raptor reaches 4,500 pounds.
That can accommodate certain small campers, teardrop trailers and lightweight recreational trailers.
Before Buying a Camper, Check:
- Trailer GVWR
- Actual or estimated loaded weight
- Tongue weight
- Trailer frontal area
- Bronco payload
- GCWR
- Required hitch equipment
- Trailer-brake requirements
Do not select a camper based only on the dry weight printed in an advertisement.
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``` Camper Dry Weight Is Not the Number You Will Actually Tow
A camper advertised at 2,800 pounds dry will not necessarily weigh 2,800 pounds when your family leaves for the weekend.
You may add:
Water, propane, batteries, food, clothing, chairs, tools, bedding, dishes, outdoor equipment, accessories and other cargo.
Those additions can move a trailer much closer to Bronco's maximum rating than its brochure dry weight suggests.
Shop from realistic loaded trailer weight, not the most flattering number in the camper advertisement.
``` 
``` 
Maximum Bronco Towing
Should You Buy Bronco Raptor Just to Tow More?
Probably not.
Raptor does increase maximum Bronco towing capacity from 3,500 to 4,500 pounds.
But Bronco Raptor is primarily a high-performance off-road SUV with a 418-horsepower engine, 37-inch tires and specialized suspension.
Buying one solely because you need another 1,000 pounds of towing capacity is an expensive way to solve the towing problem.
If your trailer consistently requires more than a conventional Bronco can handle, you may be better served by stepping into a Ranger, F-150 or Expedition rather than buying Raptor purely for its trailer rating.
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``` When Is Bronco Not Enough Tow Vehicle?
Bronco's primary mission is off-road capability, not maximum trailer capacity.
If your trailer regularly pushes beyond Bronco's range, Ford has other vehicles designed around heavier towing.
Move Up When Your Trailer Requires It
Bronco:
Up to 3,500 lbs
Bronco Raptor:
Up to 4,500 lbs
Ford Ranger:
Up to 7,500 lbs in applicable configurations
Ford Expedition:
Up to 9,600 lbs when properly equipped
Ford F-150 can move substantially beyond Bronco capability as well, depending on configuration.
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``` Can a Manual-Transmission Ford Bronco Tow?
Yes.
Applicable 2026 Broncos equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost and 7-speed manual transmission can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
That means choosing the manual does not automatically require you to give up the conventional Bronco's headline maximum tow rating.
Trailer weight, trim, axle ratio, vehicle equipment and other limits still apply.
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``` 2-Door Bronco Towing
Applicable 2-Door Broncos with either the 2.3L or 2.7L EcoBoost can reach up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
The shorter body does not automatically reduce the headline maximum tow rating.
4-Door Bronco Towing
Applicable 4-Door Broncos with the 2.3L or 2.7L can also reach up to approximately 3,500 pounds depending on the exact configuration.
Four-door models may be more practical for families carrying passengers and cargo, but that additional load still has to be included in the towing calculation.
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``` Does Axle Ratio Affect Bronco Towing?
Yes.
Ford's towing chart lists Bronco configurations with several axle ratios, including:
- 3.73
- 4.46
- 4.70
Where Do You Find Your Bronco's Axle Ratio?
Ford says the axle code can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label near the driver's door opening.
The axle code can then be matched to Ford's published axle-ratio chart.
This is useful when evaluating the towing capability of a specific Bronco rather than relying on general trim information.
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``` How Should You Load a Trailer Behind a Bronco?
Proper weight distribution affects stability, braking and steering.
Keep the Load Low
A lower center of gravity generally improves trailer stability.
Avoid stacking unnecessarily heavy equipment high in the trailer.
Balance the Trailer Side to Side
Uneven loading can affect stability and tire wear.
Heavy items should be secured so they cannot shift during braking or cornering.
Keep Enough Weight Toward the Front
Ford's towing guidance recommends approximately 60% of allowable trailer cargo weight in the front half and 40% in the rear, while remaining within tongue-load limits.
Secure Everything
Cargo that moves suddenly changes the weight distribution of the trailer.
That can negatively affect handling and vehicle control.
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``` Real-World Towing
Towing in Hills Is Different From Towing Across Missouri
Trailer weight does not change because the road gets steeper, but the demand placed on the Bronco does.
Grades increase the amount of power needed when climbing and the amount of braking control required coming back down.
Ford advises selecting a lower gear where appropriate to help control vehicle speed on descents and improve power on climbs.
A trailer that feels easy behind a Bronco on flat roads can feel very different in Colorado.
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``` High Altitude Can Reduce Towing Performance
Ford notes that vehicle performance can be reduced at high altitude when the Bronco is heavily loaded or towing.
To approximate sea-level performance, Ford advises reducing Gross Vehicle Weight and Gross Combination Weight by 2% for every 1,000 feet of elevation.
Why Missouri Buyers Should Care
You may buy your Bronco in Excelsior Springs and tow mostly on relatively low-elevation roads.
But a camping trip into Colorado, Wyoming or other mountainous regions creates a very different environment.
If mountain towing is part of your travel plans, leave yourself additional margin instead of shopping at the absolute limit.
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``` Ford Recommends Rechecking Your Trailer After About 50 Miles
Ford's basic towing guidance recommends stopping in a safe location after approximately the first 50 miles of a towing trip.
Recheck:
Trailer hitch attachment, trailer electrical connections, trailer wheel-lug tightness and engine oil.
This is especially useful with a new trailer setup or after equipment has recently been installed.
Towing safely is a process, not simply attaching a trailer and driving away.
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``` 
Bronco vs. Wrangler
Does Jeep Wrangler Tow More Than Ford Bronco?
In certain current configurations, yes.
Properly equipped 4-Door Wrangler Rubicon models can reach up to approximately 5,000 pounds.
Conventional Bronco reaches up to 3,500 pounds, while Bronco Raptor reaches 4,500 pounds.
But towing is only one part of the Bronco-versus-Wrangler decision.
If you never tow more than 2,000 or 3,000 pounds, Wrangler's higher theoretical maximum may provide no benefit in your actual ownership.
Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler ```
``` Does Bronco Tow More Than Bronco Sport?
Yes.
Conventional full-size Bronco can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Bronco Raptor reaches up to 4,500 pounds.
Bronco Sport
Bronco Sport towing is lower, with properly equipped configurations topping out below full-size Bronco.
That is one of several capability differences between the body-on-frame Bronco and the smaller unibody Bronco Sport.
Bronco vs. Bronco Sport ```
``` Which Ford Bronco Is Best for Towing?
The highest number does not necessarily identify the best Bronco for your situation.
Best Maximum Tow Rating: Bronco Raptor
Raptor wins the Bronco towing-capacity contest with its 4,500-pound maximum.
But it is an expensive and highly specialized way to gain another 1,000 pounds of trailer capacity.
Best Conventional Bronco Engine for Towing Feel: 2.7L V6
The 2.7L EcoBoost's 415 lb-ft of torque can make it attractive for drivers who tow regularly.
It does not automatically raise the 3,500-pound maximum, but the additional torque can still matter in real-world driving.
Best for Occasional Light Towing: 2.3L Bronco
If your trailer is comfortably below the maximum, the standard 2.3L EcoBoost can still provide the full conventional 3,500-pound rating in applicable configurations.
You do not necessarily need the V6 simply because you own a trailer.
Best for Heavy Towing: Probably Not a Bronco
If you regularly need more than 4,500 pounds of trailer capacity, look beyond Bronco.
Ranger, F-150 and Expedition all provide substantially more available towing capability.
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``` Bronco Towing Decision Guide
"My trailer weighs under 2,000 pounds."
Bronco can be a strong candidate, but still verify the exact vehicle and hitch setup.
"My loaded trailer is around 2,500 to 3,000 pounds."
A properly equipped conventional Bronco may work well, assuming tongue weight, payload and other ratings remain within limits.
"My trailer is close to 3,500 pounds."
Verify every number carefully and leave room for passengers, cargo and realistic trailer loading.
"My trailer is over 3,500 pounds."
Conventional Bronco is no longer the right choice. Bronco Raptor may work up to 4,500 pounds depending on the exact trailer.
"My trailer is close to or over 4,500 pounds."
Look at Ranger, F-150, Expedition or another vehicle designed with greater towing capacity.
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``` Our Verdict: Bronco Tows Enough for Recreation, Not Heavy-Duty Work
Bronco's towing capability fits the vehicle's mission well.
Most models provide up to 3,500 pounds, which can work for many smaller boats, utility trailers and lightweight recreational trailers.
Bronco Raptor stretches the maximum to 4,500 pounds.
But Know When to Move Up
Bronco was designed first as an off-road SUV.
If towing a large travel trailer, enclosed car trailer or other heavy load is central to your purchase, another Ford may be a much better match.
Use Bronco for the trailer that fits comfortably within its capability—not because you can mathematically squeeze a load underneath the absolute maximum.
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``` Ford Bronco Towing FAQs
Quick answers to the most common Bronco towing questions.
How much can a 2026 Ford Bronco tow?
Most properly equipped 2026 Ford Bronco models can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds.
Which Ford Bronco can tow the most?
Bronco Raptor has the highest published 2026 Bronco towing capacity at up to 4,500 pounds.
How much can Bronco Raptor tow?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
How much can a 2.3L Ford Bronco tow?
Applicable 2.3L EcoBoost Bronco configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
How much can a 2.7L Ford Bronco tow?
Most applicable 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Bronco configurations can tow up to approximately 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Exact ratings vary by trim, axle ratio and configuration.
Does the Bronco V6 tow more than the four-cylinder?
Not automatically. Most conventional 2.3L and 2.7L Bronco configurations share a 3,500-pound maximum, although the 2.7L provides substantially more torque.
Can a manual Ford Bronco tow?
Yes. Applicable 2.3L EcoBoost Broncos with the 7-speed manual can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
How much can a 2-Door Bronco tow?
Applicable 2-Door Bronco configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
How much can a 4-Door Bronco tow?
Most properly equipped 4-Door Bronco configurations can tow up to approximately 3,500 pounds. Bronco Raptor increases the maximum to 4,500 pounds.
Does Ford Bronco need a tow package?
Conventional 2026 Bronco models include Trailer Tow Prep Package equipment but require the applicable dealer-installed towing equipment and OEM hitch receiver to tow as specified. Ford requires dealer-installed towing equipment for trailers over 2,000 pounds. Raptor includes its upgraded towing package.
What is the Ford Bronco tongue-weight limit?
Ford lists a maximum hitch tongue load of 350 pounds for conventional Bronco and 450 pounds for Bronco Raptor.
Can a Ford Bronco tow a camper?
Yes. Some lightweight campers and teardrop trailers can fall within Bronco's ratings. Check loaded trailer weight, tongue weight, frontal area, payload and all other vehicle limits before towing.
Can a Ford Bronco tow a boat?
Yes. Many smaller boat-and-trailer combinations may fit within Bronco's towing capability. Include the trailer, fuel, batteries, gear and equipment when calculating loaded weight.
Can a Ford Bronco tow 4,000 pounds?
A conventional Bronco cannot, because its maximum is approximately 3,500 pounds. Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, subject to all other vehicle and trailer limits.
Can a Ford Bronco tow 5,000 pounds?
No current 2026 Bronco is rated to tow 5,000 pounds. Bronco Raptor has the highest published maximum at 4,500 pounds.
What is the Bronco trailer frontal-area limit?
Ford lists up to 30 square feet for conventional Bronco towing configurations and up to 40 square feet with Bronco Raptor's towing package.
What is GCWR?
Gross Combined Weight Rating is the maximum allowable combined weight of the loaded Bronco and loaded trailer. The combined vehicle and trailer weight must remain within the applicable GCWR.
Does passenger weight affect Bronco towing capacity?
Yes. Passengers, cargo, accessories and trailer tongue weight all contribute to the vehicle's load and can reduce the practical amount of trailer weight the Bronco can handle within all ratings.
Does trailer dry weight matter?
Dry weight is useful as a starting point but does not represent the trailer as actually used. Water, batteries, propane, food, equipment and other cargo increase loaded trailer weight.
Should I buy a Bronco if towing is my main priority?
Bronco is a strong choice for lighter recreational towing, but buyers who regularly pull heavier trailers should consider a Ford Ranger, F-150 or Expedition with significantly greater available towing capacity.
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``` Continue Your Ford Bronco Research
Compare Bronco trims, engines, reliability and capability before choosing your SUV.
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``` Want to Know if a Bronco Can Tow Your Trailer?
Bring us the trailer numbers.
The most useful information is the trailer's GVWR, actual or expected loaded weight, tongue weight and dimensions.
Chuck Anderson Ford can help you compare the towing equipment and ratings of the Bronco configurations you are considering and determine whether conventional Bronco, Bronco Raptor or another Ford vehicle makes more sense.
If your trailer is comfortably within Bronco's limits, you can enjoy real towing utility without giving up the removable doors, open-air design and off-road capability that made you want a Bronco in the first place.
Visit Chuck Anderson Ford in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, serving Bronco shoppers from Liberty, Kearney, Lawson, Smithville and throughout the Kansas City Northland.
Chuck Anderson Ford
- 1910 W Jesse James Road
- Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
- Sales: 816-648-6419
- Service: 816-648-6424
- Parts: 816-648-6429
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``` 2026 Ford Bronco towing specifications vary by model, engine, transmission, axle ratio, body style, equipment, accessories, passengers and cargo. Most properly equipped Bronco configurations have a maximum loaded trailer rating of up to 3,500 pounds, while Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds. Certain specific configurations may have lower ratings. Ford requires applicable dealer-installed towing equipment for trailers over 2,000 pounds on conventional Bronco models. Maximum hitch tongue load is 350 pounds for Bronco and 450 pounds for Bronco Raptor. Maximum trailer frontal area is 30 square feet for applicable conventional Bronco towing and 40 square feet with Raptor Tow Package 2. Never exceed the maximum loaded trailer weight, GCWR, GVWR, axle ratings, hitch limits or other vehicle-specific ratings. Always consult the current Ford towing guide, Owner's Manual and labels for the exact vehicle and trailer before towing.