Is a Ford Ranger a 1/4 Ton Truck?

When it comes to the world of pickup trucks, the Ford Ranger has been a staple for many years. One common question that often arises is whether the Ford Ranger is considered a 1/4 ton truck. Let’s delve into this topic and explore the various aspects that define the Ranger’s classification.

Understanding the Classification

Before we can determine if the Ford Ranger is a 1/4 ton truck, it’s important to understand how trucks are classified based on their weight capacity. Trucks are typically categorized into different classes, with each class representing a specific weight range. The most common classifications are 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton, and 1 ton.

The 1/4 ton classification refers to trucks that have a payload capacity of between 1,000 and 1,200 pounds. This payload capacity is a crucial factor in determining the truck’s suitability for various tasks, such as towing and carrying heavy loads.

Ford Ranger Specifications

Now let’s take a closer look at the specifications of the Ford Ranger to determine its classification. The Ranger has been available in various models and configurations over the years, so it’s important to consider the specific model and year when assessing its payload capacity.

For example, the 2021 Ford Ranger SuperCrew with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine has a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds. This exceeds the upper limit of the 1/4 ton classification, suggesting that it may not be strictly considered a 1/4 ton truck.

However, it’s worth noting that the Ranger’s payload capacity can vary depending on the configuration and options chosen. For instance, the 2021 Ranger SuperCrew with the 3.0-liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel engine has a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds, which is still within the 1/4 ton range.

Comparison with Other Trucks

To further understand the Ranger’s classification, let’s compare it with other popular pickup trucks in the market. The Chevrolet Colorado, for example, is often considered a 1/4 ton truck, with a maximum payload capacity of around 1,585 pounds for the 2.5-liter engine and 1,660 pounds for the 3.6-liter engine.

On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma, which is often compared to the Ranger, offers a maximum payload capacity of around 1,620 pounds for the 2.7-liter engine and 3,525 pounds for the 3.5-liter engine. This puts the Tacoma closer to the 3/4 ton classification.

Conclusion

Based on the information provided, it can be concluded that the Ford Ranger is not strictly a 1/4 ton truck. While some models and configurations may fall within the 1/4 ton range, others exceed this limit. The classification of the Ranger as a 1/4 ton truck ultimately depends on the specific model and year, as well as the engine and options chosen.

When considering the Ranger for your needs, it’s important to carefully review the specifications and payload capacity of the specific model you’re interested in. This will help ensure that the Ranger meets your requirements for towing and carrying heavy loads.

Model	Engine	Maximum Payload Capacity
2021 Ford Ranger SuperCrew	2.3-liter EcoBoost	1,860 pounds
2021 Ford Ranger SuperCrew	3.0-liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel	1,860 pounds
2021 Chevrolet Colorado	2.5-liter	1,585 pounds
2021 Toyota Tacoma	2.7-liter	1,620 pounds