1998 Ford Windstar Logo
Posted on Oct 03, 2008
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1998 Windstar w/o tow package need solution to increase tow capacity

I understand the standard towing capacity is 2000lbs & 3500lbs with a "tow package" I have a class III hitch and wiring what else do I need to do to complete the package ...a tranny cooler? and I am good to go?
Thanks

  • hzama Oct 04, 2008

    Thanks for the input...I guess I should have clarified that I hope to be towing a pop-up trailer that we are looking at that has a GVW of 2,500 lbs.... 500 over the standard load limit.

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1 Answer

Curt Downs

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  • Ford Master 1,779 Answers
  • Posted on Oct 03, 2008
Curt  Downs
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You may be getting into a very dangerous situation. You definitely need a tranny cooler, a brake controller installed in your van, electric brakes on all wheels of whatever u r towing, an oil cooler (engine), and u still may be in big trouble. Factory towing packages usually include heavy duty brakes, alternator, heavy duty suspension, bigger tires, sway bars, etc. So even w/ some add-ons u still won't match a factory set up, meaning u shouldn't tow that much weight. Check out edmonds.com/ownership/howto/articles/44921/page001.html for more info, be careful, and good luck, countrycurt0

  • Curt Downs Oct 04, 2008

    Hey hzama, check out the above website anyway, get the tranny cooler, and I'm still a bit concerned about stopping your van w/ an extra 2500 lbs behind it, not to mention a full load of camping gear. Go easy down those hills! Happy camping countrycurt0

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