Can I Tow a Boat and Trailer that Weighs 1,255 lbs with a 2008 Ford Taurus

Updated 03/12/2010 | Published 03/11/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets - Class I -Extra Efficient

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Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

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Question:

tow bars are rated for 3,500 lbs for any size ball the engine seems plent big in horse power, one would guess that the torque would handle same

asked by: william h

Expert Reply:

I do not see any reason why you would not be able to tow a 1,255 pound boat and trailer with a 2008 Ford Taurus. You should check your vehicle owner manual and make sure that the gross trailer weight and the tongue weight of the boat, loaded and ready to tow, are within the vehicle limits.

We have the Draw-Tite Max-Frame, # 75299, which has a 3,500 pound weight carrying capacity and would be plenty of hitch to tow the boat you mentioned, as long as the vehicle ratings are high enough.

You may want to consider adding a transmission cooler to your vehicle if you will be towing frequently or long distances. Transmissions and transmission fluid lasts much longer if kept as far below 200 degrees as possible. The largest cooler you can fit in front of the radiator or AC condenser is the best recommendation for your vehicle and transmission. I have listed a couple of coolers that may work for you below. You will need to measure to be sure that the cooler will fit in the area provided on your vehicle.

Derale Transmission Cooler, item # D13502, Overall dimensions 11in wide x 7-1/4in tall x 7/8in deep

Derale Transmission Cooler, item # D13611, Overall dimensions 11in wide x 3-7/8in tall x 1-1/4in deep