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Denis4x4 · 11-15-2009, 10:57 AM

I picked up a Ford E250 super cargo van with the 5.4 EFI engine, 4 speed electronic o'drive transmission, 138" WB, anti-lock brakes, 16" wheels and a 3:71 rear end. It's in excellent shape with 70,000 miles. The book gives a tow rating capacity of 7400#. I have a 25' Safari FB with a 7300# GVW.

I'm interested in facts, not theory, on how much I can add to the van's towing capacity by installing a 4:11 limited slip rear end, K&N Filter Charger (yes, I know they're worthless in spite of the fact that I have them on several vehicles with excellent results) tube headers and/or a cat-back exhaust system. I'm reluctant to go the chip route unless somebody has some good hands on info.

Needless to say, I'll upgrade the tires and shocks and use a Reese WD hitch. Since I'm into this van at a right price, I'm open to upgrading to a PP or Hensley hitch if either one will really make a difference.

HowieE · 11-15-2009, 11:54 AM

Yes the 4.11 will be a good addition living in CO.

Rather than the headers I would first spend some money on a trans cooler system and a temperature gauge. You are going to spend a lot of time driving with that converter unlocked and it would be helpful to know what is happening in the trans. If the F250 has a gauge disregard it altogether. Mine in my Excursion never movers while my after market temperature gauge does ovr quite a range.

Yes the K&N is a waste of money. If you want to prove it to yourself drive through some dust and then take the filter out and rub your hand on the inside of the air tube. That grit is also going into the engine.

2airishuman · 11-15-2009, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Denis4x4

I'm interested in facts, not theory, on how much I can add to the van's towing capacity by installing a 4:11 limited slip rear end...

then contact FORD or find an OLDER factory tow rating spec for THIS model equipped ORIGINALLY with a 4.11...

what YEAR e250 ?

the FACT is NONE of the other suggested tweaks CHANGE the tow rating.

certainly useful changes may IMPROVE the towing experience...

but these tweaks are ALL backed by USER feedback, generalization, wishful thinking, subjective reports and so on...

at least that's my theory.

a BRAKE upgrade on the e250 is a good idea too, dat's a fact.

cheers
2air'

Denis4x4 · 11-16-2009, 05:12 AM

I was able to find towing stats on an E250 van with the 5.4 engine and a a 4:11 rear end. Exactly the same towing capacity! Over on the Ford Forum, one poster claimed that changing out to a 4:11 would increase towing capacity by 10%. Not worth the time and effort. It will now be turned into a fishing machine to tow my t@b.