Maximum Towing Capacity of a 1989 Ford E350 Van

Question:

Hi...considering the purchase of a 1989 E350 Club Wagon. Intent is NOT to haul people, but strip the interior for cargo. Max estimated weight of vehicle cargo is 2,200 pounds. Intent is to also pull a 5foot x 10foot trailer that has a max rating of 4,500 pounds single axle w/brakes. Doubt I will ever max trailer out, but Id like to know if these numbers are doable. P.S What size/model transmission cooler would you recommend for this van?

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

To determine the maximum trailer weight you can tow with your 1989 Ford E350 you will need to find both the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of your van. This can all be found on the information tag located inside the driver door jamb. If you subtract the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of your van from the (GCWR) that will give you the maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) you can safely tow.

Generally speaking, the best transmission cooler to use would be the largest one you have space available for in front of the radiator/condenser behind the grill of your van. Therefore, as long as you have 11" wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep of space in this location the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets part # D13503 would do an excellent job of cooling your transmission fluid. This kit comes with everything you will need to install on your van.

If your trailer is more than 50% of your GCWR, you will want to use a weight distribution system. In order to be sure you are choosing the correct weight distribution system, you will want to find the total tongue weight of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight of both your loaded and ready to tow trailer by any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

The average total tongue weight (TW) rating of a trailer is typically 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). An easy way to find this would involve using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. When choosing a weight distribution system, you will want your total tongue weight to fall in the middle of the weight distributions weight capacity. For example, the ideal weight distribution system for a total tongue weight of 600 lbs is one that is rated for 400-800 lbs of tongue weight.

For a total tongue weight between 200-600 lbs I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37060ET. I have attached a review video of the transmission cooler for you as well.