What is the payload of the Ford Ranger 4wd?
The payload is the maximum weight a Ford Ranger 4WD can carry, including passengers and cargo. In recent Ranger 4WD models, payload typically ranges from about 1,400 to 1,700 pounds, depending on configuration.
Payload depends on factors like cab size, bed length, drivetrain, options, and year. This article explains how payload is defined, what typical ranges look like, and how to determine the exact figure for your vehicle.
Payload basics
In vehicle specifications, payload is calculated as GVWR minus curb weight. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum safe weight the vehicle can carry, including passengers, cargo, and fluids. Curb weight is the vehicle’s weight with standard equipment, a full tank of fuel, and no passengers or cargo. The difference is the base payload the vehicle can carry before adding people or cargo.
How payload is calculated
Payload = GVWR minus curb weight. To estimate for your truck, locate the GVWR on the door jamb sticker or window sticker, find the curb weight in the same place or in official spec sheets, and subtract. The result is the base payload; you then subtract the weight of occupants and cargo to determine remaining capacity for a given trip.
Typical payload range for Ranger 4WD
Before listing common figures, note that exact payload varies by year, trim, cab configuration, bed length, and equipment. The numbers below reflect common 4WD Ranger configurations in recent years.
- Most recent Ford Ranger 4WD configurations with a Crew Cab and standard bed have payload ratings roughly in the 1,400–1,700 pounds (635–770 kg) range.
- Heavier equipment or larger trims can push payload toward the lower end, while lighter configurations may approach the upper end of that range.
The exact payload for any given Ranger is printed on the vehicle's door jamb sticker (Monroney label) and can be found in the owner's manual or the Ford Build & Price tool. Always verify the exact figure for your specific vehicle before loading heavy cargo or multiple passengers.
Factors that affect payload
Beyond the basics, several factors influence how much payload a Ranger 4WD can carry safely. The following considerations help explain why two trucks that look similar may have different payloads.
- Cab configuration and bed size: heavier cabs or larger beds add weight and can lower payload.
- Drivetrain and options: 4WD systems, off-road packages, and added equipment increase weight, reducing payload.
- Engine and transmission: different engine choices and transmissions have different weights and can affect GVWR allocation.
- Aftermarket equipment and accessories: bed liners, winches, racks, and other add-ons reduce payload capacity.
- GVWR variance by model year and trim: Ford can adjust GVWR slightly across years and trims based on changes to components and safety standards.
Understanding these factors helps owners estimate how much they can carry in day-to-day use or when planning loads for trips or work.
How to find your exact payload
To determine the exact payload for your Ranger 4WD, use the following steps. This yields an accurate figure that accounts for your vehicle’s specific configuration and equipment.
- Locate the GVWR on the door jamb sticker (or in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or window sticker).
- Find the curb weight for your exact configuration (also often listed on the door jamb sticker or in official spec sheets).
- Subtract curb weight from GVWR to obtain the base payload capacity.
- Subtract the actual weight of occupants and cargo you plan to carry from the base payload to determine the remaining payload capacity for the trip.
- Respect the remaining payload plus any towing-related weights to stay within the vehicle’s safe limits.
Tip: If you’re considering heavy payloads, consult the dealer’s specifications for your exact build or use Ford’s online configurator to pull the precise GVWR and curb weight numbers for your truck.
Summary
Payload capacity for the Ford Ranger 4WD is configuration-dependent but typically sits in the 1,400–1,700 pounds range for recent models. To know the exact figure for your vehicle, check the door jamb sticker for GVWR and curb weight, then perform the subtraction and account for occupants and cargo. Always verify with official documentation before loading heavy items or planning trips.
