Official 2011 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide
2011 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide
Research 2011 Ford towing capacities for F-150, Super Duty, Ranger, Expedition, Explorer, Flex, Edge, Escape, E-Series, Mustang, Taurus and more. Compare maximum trailer weights, engine choices, axle ratios, towing packages, hitch requirements, payload considerations and configuration-specific limits.
Maximum towing capacity is configuration-specific. Engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, cab, wheelbase, optional equipment, passengers, cargo, hitch equipment and trailer tongue or king pin weight can all change the towing capacity of an individual 2011 Ford. Always verify your exact vehicle using Ford's detailed towing tables.
Explore the 2011 Guide
Find 2011 Ford Towing Information by Vehicle
Start with the maximum available ratings, then use Ford's complete guide to match engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, GCWR, wheelbase and towing equipment to your vehicle.
Maximum Available Capability
2011 Ford Towing Capacity Highlights
The 2011 Ford lineup ranges from compact Ranger pickups and passenger vehicles to heavy-duty Super Duty trucks, commercial chassis and full-size E-Series vans.
11,300 lbs.
Ford F-150
Maximum available towing with qualifying 3.5L EcoBoost or 6.2L V8 configurations.
24,500 lbs.
Super Duty Pickup
Maximum available fifth-wheel towing for the properly configured F-450 pickup.
10,000 lbs.
Ford E-Series
Maximum loaded trailer rating for qualifying E-Series Van and Wagon configurations.
5,800 lbs.
Ford Ranger
Maximum available towing for a properly equipped 4.0L V6 Ranger.
2011 Model Comparison
How Much Can a 2011 Ford Tow?
These are selected maximum available ratings from Ford's 2011 guide. Individual vehicles may be rated substantially lower.
| 2011 Ford Vehicle | Maximum Listed Towing | Important 2011 Detail |
|---|---|---|
| F-150 | Up to 11,300 lbs. | Qualifying 3.5L EcoBoost and 6.2L V8 configurations reach the highest rating. |
| Super Duty Pickup - Conventional | Up to 17,500 lbs. | Maximum applies to qualifying 6.7L Power Stroke diesel configurations. |
| Super Duty Pickup - Fifth-Wheel | Up to 24,500 lbs. | The highest pickup fifth-wheel rating is found in the F-450 selector. |
| Super Duty Chassis Cab - Conventional | Up to 16,000 lbs. | Ford's tables assume second-unit body weight when calculating Chassis Cab ratings. |
| Super Duty Chassis Cab - Fifth-Wheel | Up to 26,500 lbs. | Certain high-GCWR F-450/F-550 configurations carry the highest detailed-table rating. |
| E-Series Van / Wagon | Up to 10,000 lbs. | Maximum applies to qualifying 6.8L V10 E-350 Super Duty configurations. |
| Expedition | Up to 9,200 lbs. | Higher ratings require the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. |
| Expedition EL | Up to 8,900 lbs. | Extended-length models use separate GCWR and trailer ratings. |
| Ranger | Up to 5,800 lbs. | The 4.0L V6 automatic carries the highest Ranger towing rating. |
| Explorer | Up to 5,000 lbs. | The completely redesigned 2011 Explorer reaches 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. |
| Flex | Up to 4,500 lbs. | Requires the applicable Class III Trailer Tow Package. |
| Edge | Up to 3,500 lbs. | Tow rating is reduced on certain 22-inch-wheel configurations. |
| Escape | Up to 3,500 lbs. | Maximum applies to the 3.0L V6 with Class II Trailer Tow Package. |
| Mustang | Up to 1,000 lbs. | Ford lists a minimum 3.7L V6 for its light-duty Mustang towing rating. |
| Taurus | Up to 1,000 lbs. | Ford lists a minimum 3.5L V6 for the Taurus light-duty towing rating. |
| Fusion | Not Recommended | Ford specifically lists Fusion as not recommended for trailer towing. |
| Transit Connect | Not Recommended | Ford specifically excludes the 2011 Transit Connect from trailer towing. |
What Makes the 2011 Ford Towing Guide Different?
The 2011 model year captures several major changes in Ford truck engineering while preserving models and powertrains that disappeared from later towing guides.
All-New F-150 Engine Lineup
Ford introduced four new F-150 engines: a 3.7L V6, 5.0L V8, 6.2L V8 and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6.
EcoBoost Arrives in F-150
The 3.5L EcoBoost produces 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque and can reach the 11,300-pound maximum.
Ranger Is Still in the Guide
The compact Ranger receives a complete towing selector and reaches as high as 5,800 pounds with the 4.0L V6.
Explorer Is Completely Redesigned
Ford's redesigned 2011 Explorer reaches 5,000 pounds of maximum towing when properly equipped.
New Super Duty Powertrains
The 2011 Super Duty uses Ford's new 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and 6.2L gasoline V8 in pickup applications.
E-Series Still Plays a Major Role
Full-size E-Series Van and Wagon configurations remain prominent and reach 10,000 pounds of towing.
A New F-150 Powertrain Era
2011 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity by Engine
Ford replaced the previous F-150 engine lineup for 2011 with four new powertrains and a standard six-speed automatic transmission with Tow/Haul Mode.
| 2011 F-150 Engine | Power | Maximum Available Towing |
|---|---|---|
| 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 | 302 hp / 278 lb.-ft. | Up to 6,100 lbs. |
| 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 | 360 hp / 380 lb.-ft. | Up to 10,000 lbs. |
| 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | 365 hp / 420 lb.-ft. | Up to 11,300 lbs. |
| 6.2L V8 | 411 hp / 434 lb.-ft. | Up to 11,300 lbs. |
2011 F-150 towing note: The highest 11,300-pound ratings require qualifying vehicle configurations and the Max Trailer Tow Package. Ford also states that trailer weight should not exceed 5,000 pounds when towing with the bumper only.
2011 F-150 Research
EcoBoost, V8 Power & Maximum Payload
The 2011 model year is especially important for used F-150 research because the engine lineup changed dramatically.
3.5L EcoBoost V6
11,300 lbs.The first F-150 EcoBoost engine combines 365 horsepower with 420 lb.-ft. of torque and reaches Ford's maximum available towing rating.
6.2L V8
11,300 lbs.The 411-horsepower 6.2L V8 can also reach the maximum in qualifying configurations. Raptor configurations carry lower ratings.
Maximum F-150 Payload
3,060 lbs.Ford lists maximum available payload at 3,060 pounds. Maximum payload and maximum towing do not necessarily occur on the same truck.
Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
Ford offered an integrated trailer brake controller to coordinate compatible electrically actuated trailer brakes with the truck.
Trailer Tow Mirrors
Available trailer tow mirrors improve visibility alongside wider recreational and work trailers.
Rearview Camera
Ford highlights its available rearview camera as a useful aid when positioning the truck near a trailer coupler.
2011 Heavy-Duty Ford Towing
2011 Ford Super Duty Towing Capacity
Ford separates Super Duty pickup ratings from the F-350, F-450 and F-550 Chassis Cab configurations.
Pickup Conventional
17,500 lbs.Pickup Fifth-Wheel
24,500 lbs.Chassis Cab Conventional
16,000 lbs.Chassis Cab Fifth-Wheel
26,500 lbs.6.7L Power Stroke Diesel
800 lb.-ft.Ford lists the 2011 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel at 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque.
It powers the highest-capacity Super Duty pickup combinations in the guide.
Maximum Pickup Payload
7,070 lbs.Ford lists maximum Super Duty pickup payload at 7,070 pounds for the proper configuration.
Payload, hitch load and trailer capacity must each be verified independently.
Do not apply the headline maximum to every Super Duty. F-250, F-350 and F-450 ratings change with engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, cab, wheelbase, single- or dual-rear-wheel configuration, GVWR and hitch type.
2011 Super Duty Towing Technology
Systems Designed for Heavy Trailer Control
The 2011 Super Duty guide highlights several features intended to make towing large trailers easier to manage.
Trailer Sway Control
Ford's stability system can detect trailer sway and selectively apply braking or reduce engine power to help the driver regain control.
Hill Start Assist
Hill Start Assist helps reduce rollback when transitioning from the brake to the accelerator on an incline.
Trailer Brake Controller
Ford's integrated controller is designed to work with compatible electric trailer braking systems.
Tow/Haul Mode
Tow/Haul Mode changes transmission operation to improve control under heavier loads.
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Prep
Ford offered integrated frame-mounted provisions for fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch installations.
Tailgate Clearance
Ford's selector even provides tailgate-height considerations for fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers.
A Distinctive 2011 Archive Model
2011 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
Ranger still appears in Ford's 2011 U.S. towing guide, with separate ratings for four-cylinder and V6, manual and automatic, 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.
4.0L V6 Automatic
Up to 5,800 lbs.The 4.0L SOHC V6 provides Ranger's highest listed 2011 trailer rating in the detailed selector.
2.3L I4 Automatic
Up to 2,160 lbs.Certain Regular Cab 4x2 configurations reach 2,160 pounds with the four-cylinder engine.
Manual Transmission
Manual-transmission Ranger ratings are lower than many comparable automatic-transmission combinations, making transmission identification important.
Ford states that Ranger maximum loaded trailer weight above 5,000 pounds requires a weight-distributing hitch. State trailer-brake regulations may also restrict the usable rating because of the Ranger's electrical configuration.
Full-Size Van & RV Capability
2011 Ford E-Series Towing Capacity
E-Series remains a major part of Ford's 2011 RV and trailer lineup, including cargo vans, passenger wagons, cutaways, stripped chassis and RV conversions.
4.6L V8
Up to 6,500 lbs.Certain E-150 and E-250 configurations with the 4.6L V8 reach 6,500 pounds.
5.4L V8
Up to 7,500 lbs.Properly configured E-Series Van and Wagon models using the 5.4L V8 reach 7,500 pounds.
6.8L V10
Up to 10,000 lbs.Qualifying E-350 Super Duty Van and Wagon configurations reach Ford's 10,000-pound maximum.
E-350 Cutaway
18,500-lb. GCWRThe 6.8L V10 E-350 Cutaway is listed with a GCWR reaching 18,500 pounds.
E-450 Cutaway
22,000-lb. GCWRProperly configured 6.8L V10 E-450 Cutaway and Stripped Chassis models reach a 22,000-pound GCWR.
Trailer Tow Package
Ford requires the appropriate Class II/III/IV Trailer Tow Package on E-Series Van and Wagon applications towing more than 5,000 pounds.
Full-Size SUV Towing
2011 Ford Expedition & Expedition EL Towing Capacity
Expedition uses the 5.4L V8 and reaches substantially higher ratings with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
2011 Ford Expedition
Up to 9,200 lbs.Properly equipped Expedition configurations reach 9,200 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
2011 Ford Expedition EL
Up to 8,900 lbs.Extended-length Expedition EL configurations reach up to 8,900 pounds depending on drivetrain and axle ratio.
Ford requires the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package for trailers over 6,000 pounds on Expedition. Higher-capacity applications also require the appropriate weight-distributing hitch setup.
2011 Ford SUV & Crossover Towing
Explorer, Flex, Edge & Escape Tow Ratings
Ford's 2011 crossover lineup demonstrates how much towing capability can change based on engine, wheels and factory towing equipment.
Ford Explorer
Up to 5,000 lbs.The redesigned 2011 Explorer with the 3.5L V6 reaches 5,000 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and weight-distributing hitch.
Ford Flex
Up to 4,500 lbs.Flex can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the Class III Trailer Tow Package and appropriate hitch.
Ford Edge
Up to 3,500 lbs.Ford lists Edge at up to 3,500 pounds, although certain 22-inch-wheel configurations are limited to 2,000 pounds.
Ford Escape
Up to 3,500 lbs.The 3.0L V6 provides Escape's highest rating with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
Escape Hybrid
1,000 lbs.*Ford's selector shows a 1,000-pound figure but states that Escape Hybrid does not offer factory- or dealer-installed towing equipment for this application.
Transit Connect
Not RecommendedFord specifically lists the 2011 Transit Connect as not recommended for trailer towing.
Engine-Specific Ratings
2011 Escape & Explorer Towing Capacity
2011 Ford Escape
- 2.5L Hybrid: 1,000-lb. listed figure*
- 2.5L I4: up to 1,500 lbs.
- 3.0L V6: up to 3,500 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 requires the Class II Trailer Tow Package for the 3,500-pound rating. The Hybrid has special towing-equipment restrictions.
2011 Ford Explorer
Up to 5,000 lbs.Ford's selector lists the 3.5L V6 Explorer at 2,000 pounds in standard configurations and up to 5,000 pounds with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and weight-distributing hitch.
Historical Ford Passenger Cars
2011 Mustang, Taurus & Non-Tow-Rated Cars
Ford's historical guide is especially useful for distinguishing vehicles that received light-duty towing ratings from those Ford specifically excluded.
2011 Ford Mustang
1,000 lbs.Ford lists a Class I maximum gross trailer weight of 1,000 pounds with a minimum 3.7L V6 engine.
2011 Ford Taurus
1,000 lbs.Ford lists Taurus at a 1,000-pound Class I maximum with a minimum 3.5L V6.
2011 Ford Fusion
Not RecommendedFord specifically identifies the 2011 Fusion as not recommended for trailer towing.
Important Ford Guidance
2011 Vehicles Not Recommended for Trailer Towing
Ford's 2011 RV & Trailer Towing Guide explicitly identifies several vehicles that should not be used for trailer towing.
Ford Fiesta
Ford does not recommend the 2011 Fiesta for trailer towing.
Ford Focus
The 2011 Focus is also listed as not recommended for trailer towing.
Ford Fusion
Ford specifically excludes the 2011 Fusion from trailer towing.
Mercury Milan
Milan is included in Ford's list of vehicles not recommended for trailer towing.
Lincoln MKZ
Ford's guide also lists MKZ as not recommended for trailer towing.
Transit Connect
The 2011 Transit Connect does not receive a trailer-towing rating in Ford's guide.
Trailer Shape Also Matters
2011 Ford Trailer Frontal Area Limits
Ford publishes trailer frontal-area guidance because aerodynamic drag can affect towing performance even when trailer weight is within the published maximum.
F-150
Up to 60 sq. ft.Applicable trucks with the Trailer Tow or Max Trailer Tow Package receive the higher frontal-area allowance.
Super Duty
60 sq. ft.Ford lists 60 square feet for applicable F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 applications.
E-Series
60 sq. ft.Ford lists a 60-square-foot frontal-area consideration for E-Series applications.
Expedition
Up to 60 sq. ft.The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package increases Expedition's allowable trailer frontal area.
Explorer
Up to 40 sq. ft.Explorer reaches the higher frontal-area figure with the Class III Trailer Tow Package.
Ranger
Up to 50 sq. ft.Ford lists the larger 50-square-foot allowance for Ranger with the 4.0L V6.
Trailer Weight Categories
2011 Ford Trailer Classes
Class I
Up to 2,000 lbs.Light-duty applications such as smaller campers, utility trailers and boats.
Class II
2,001-3,500 lbs.Medium-duty recreational and utility trailer applications.
Class III
3,501-5,000 lbs.Larger conventional trailers requiring appropriately rated equipment.
Class IV
Over 5,000 lbs.Larger travel, equipment and recreational trailer applications.
Proper Trailer Loading
Tongue Weight, King Pin Weight & Payload
Maximum trailer capacity cannot be considered independently from the weight the trailer places on the tow vehicle.
Conventional Tongue Weight
10-15%Ford specifies approximately 10 to 15 percent of total loaded trailer weight as tongue load.
Fifth-Wheel King Pin Weight
15-25%Fifth-wheel trailer king pin weight should generally equal approximately 15 to 25 percent of total loaded trailer weight.
Payload Must Accommodate It
Trailer hitch load combines with passengers, cargo and vehicle options and cannot cause GVWR or rear GAWR to be exceeded.
Understand Ford's Towing Tables
Important 2011 Ford Towing Terms
Base Curb Weight
Vehicle weight with standard equipment and fluids before passengers, cargo and optional equipment.
Payload
The combined maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry.
GVW
Gross Vehicle Weight is the actual loaded weight of the tow vehicle.
GVWR
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum allowable loaded weight of the vehicle itself.
GAWR
Gross Axle Weight Rating is the maximum allowable weight supported by an individual axle.
GCW
Gross Combination Weight is the actual combined weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer.
GCWR
Gross Combination Weight Rating is the maximum permissible combined weight of tow vehicle and trailer.
Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight
Ford's maximum allowable loaded trailer rating for a particular engine, axle ratio and configuration.
Find Your Actual Rating
How to Verify a 2011 Ford Towing Capacity
1
Determine Loaded Trailer Weight
Include cargo, fluids, equipment and supplies rather than relying only on the trailer's empty weight.
2
Identify the Exact Vehicle
Confirm model, engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, cab, wheelbase and transmission.
3
Confirm Required Tow Equipment
Higher ratings may require Trailer Tow, Max Trailer Tow, Class II, Class III, Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow or other equipment.
4
Calculate Available Payload
Include passengers, cargo, options, hitch equipment and trailer tongue or king pin weight.
5
Check Every Weight Rating
Verify GVWR, rear GAWR, GCWR, hitch capacity and Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight.
6
Use Ford's Complete 2011 Guide
Match your exact configuration to the Ford selector and review the vehicle Owner Guide before towing.
Before You Tow
2011 Ford Trailer Safety & Break-In Guidance
Ford's 2011 guide includes operating recommendations in addition to maximum trailer-weight tables.
Drive 500 Miles First
500 MilesFord says not to tow a trailer until the vehicle has been driven at least 500 miles.
Weigh the Combination
Ford recommends weighing the fully loaded vehicle, passengers and trailer so critical weight limits are not exceeded.
Trailer Brakes
Over 1,500 lbs.Ford recommends a separate functional brake system for trailers weighing more than 1,500 pounds when loaded.
Consider Hilly Terrain
Ford warns that towing performance can be compromised in hilly terrain when a minimum acceptable powertrain combination is selected.
Check Maintenance Requirements
Review the Owner Guide for break-in and severe-duty maintenance schedules before towing.
Remove Weight if Necessary
If a critical vehicle or trailer limit is exceeded, cargo must be removed until all weights are within limits.
Motorhome Owners
Towing a 2011 Ford Behind an RV
Ford's 2011 guide includes a dedicated four-wheel-down towing section for owners bringing a vehicle behind a motorhome.
Four-Wheel-Down Towing
Ford provides model- and powertrain-specific guidance for vehicles that may be towed with all four wheels on the ground.
Transmission, drivetrain and vehicle preparation requirements vary by model.
Follow the Owner Guide
Recreational towing requirements may include special transmission positions, ignition procedures, speed limits or periodic engine operation.
Use the exact 2011 Owner Guide instructions before four-wheel-down towing.
Beyond Pickups & SUVs
2011 Ford Commercial & Motorhome Chassis
Ford's complete towing guide also covers Class A motorhome chassis, E-Series Cutaway, commercial stripped chassis and F-650/F-750 medium-duty trucks.
16,000-lb. Motorhome Chassis
7,000-lb. TrailerFord lists a 23,000-pound GCWR and 7,000-pound maximum trailer weight.
19,500-lb. Motorhome Chassis
6,500-lb. TrailerFord lists a 26,000-pound GCWR and 6,500-pound maximum trailer weight.
22,000-lb. Motorhome Chassis
4,000-lb. TrailerFord lists a 26,000-pound GCWR and 4,000-pound maximum trailer weight.
F-650
Up to 29,000-lb. GVWRFord provides model-specific commercial ratings based on configuration and intended application.
F-750
Up to 37,000-lb. GVWRThe F-750 represents the upper end of the medium-duty Ford chassis covered in the guide.
Commercial Upfit Weight
Body equipment and completed-vehicle weight must be included when calculating available trailer capacity.
2011 Ford Towing FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2011 Ford F-150?
A properly equipped 2011 Ford F-150 can tow up to 11,300 pounds. Qualifying 3.5L EcoBoost and 6.2L V8 configurations reach the highest rating.
How much can a 2011 F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost tow?
Certain properly configured 2011 Ford F-150 models with the 3.5L EcoBoost can tow up to 11,300 pounds.
How much can a 2011 F-150 with the 5.0L V8 tow?
Ford's detailed selector lists properly equipped 2011 F-150 5.0L V8 configurations at up to approximately 10,000 pounds.
How much can a 2011 Ford Super Duty tow?
Ford lists Super Duty pickups at up to 17,500 pounds for conventional towing and 24,500 pounds for fifth-wheel towing. Chassis Cab fifth-wheel configurations reach as high as 26,500 pounds in the detailed selector.
How much can a 2011 Ford Ranger tow?
A properly configured 2011 Ranger with the 4.0L V6 and automatic transmission can tow up to 5,800 pounds.
How much can a 2011 Ford Expedition tow?
A properly equipped 2011 Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,200 pounds. Expedition EL reaches up to 8,900 pounds.
How much can a 2011 Ford Explorer tow?
A properly equipped 2011 Ford Explorer with the 3.5L V6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
How much can a 2011 Ford Escape tow?
The 2011 Escape with the 3.0L V6 can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
How much can a 2011 Ford Flex tow?
A properly equipped 2011 Ford Flex can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the Class III Trailer Tow Package.
How much can a 2011 Ford Edge tow?
A properly equipped 2011 Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Ford notes that certain configurations with 22-inch wheels are limited to 2,000 pounds.
How much can a 2011 Ford E-Series tow?
Certain properly equipped 2011 E-Series Van and Wagon configurations with the 6.8L V10 can tow up to 10,000 pounds.
Can a 2011 Ford Fusion tow a trailer?
Ford's 2011 RV & Trailer Towing Guide lists Fusion as not recommended for trailer towing.
Can a 2011 Ford Transit Connect tow a trailer?
Ford specifically lists the 2011 Transit Connect as not recommended for trailer towing.
How long should I drive a 2011 Ford before towing?
Ford's 2011 towing guide says not to tow a trailer until the vehicle has been driven at least 500 miles.
Researching a Used 2011 Ford for Towing?
A 2011 Ford's engine, axle ratio, drivetrain and towing equipment can make thousands of pounds of difference in its trailer capacity. Chuck Anderson Ford can help you understand the configuration of a used F-150, Super Duty, Ranger, Expedition, Explorer or other Ford and compare it with newer Ford towing options.
Ford Towing Guide Archive
Choose Another Ford Model Year
Ford towing capacities, engines, vehicle lines and required equipment change over time. Select the guide matching the vehicle you own or are researching.
2011 Ford Towing Disclaimer: This page summarizes information contained in the 2011 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide for research purposes. Maximum towing capabilities apply only to properly equipped vehicles and vary according to cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, options and number of passengers. Do not exceed the specific vehicle's GVWR, GAWR, GCWR, Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight, payload, hitch receiver rating or any other applicable limit. Consult the complete 2011 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide, vehicle Owner Guide and Safety Compliance Certification Label before towing. Chuck Anderson Ford is located at 1910 W Jesse James Road, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024.