So, this is a hot topic with me. I plan to be towing. I've looked for everything I could possibly find on the topic and I find two ares of discussion: Can I, and Should I.
Can I...
Yes. Your Duratec 2.5 engine is capable. Consider rear suspension help, tongue weight and trailer packing. Some people add an extra transmission cooler. If your trailer doesn't have brakes, add them. Trailer brakes and a brake controller are kinda non-negotiable.
Should I...
This is the harder question. There is history behind the 2000 lb tow rating. Where does that number come from? It seems awfully round and convenient as a number. Why not 1850 lbs or 2387 lbs? 2000 lbs is just the established standard for a class 1 hitch. The factory hitch is a class 1 hitch despite it's 2 inch receiver. The factory hitch is just bolted to the bumper and not the frame. You can get an aftermarket class three hitch that attaches to the frame. The problem then becomes a legal question. If anything were to happen, could we be held liable for operating outside the manufacturer's published spec? This is going to be a state by state question. I've gotten answers in both directions. Largely though, this is more an issue with commercial towing. It's a VERY serious issue with commercial haulers with stiff fines for being over weight.
In my reading, I've come across some interesting pieces of info: The TC was originally rated as not suitable for towing. It then became 2000 lbs. The speculation seems to be that this issue has more to do with EPA and lawyers than it has with engineering. Search this site for an old thread entitled "Towing with the Transit Connect" from 2009. It was interesting.
My bottom line...
I haven't tried it yet, but if the new 2.0 liter engine will pull my trailer, I'm gonna do it. (yes, I have trailer brakes)
Brett.
