* Weight of the Nissan: The most important factor. You need to know the actual weight of the Nissan, not just the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR is the *maximum* weight it can be, but it might be lighter depending on its equipment. You can often find this on the vehicle's sticker (usually in the driver's side door jamb) or in the owner's manual.
* Towing Capacity of the Ford Ranger: Check your Ford Ranger XLT's owner's manual. It will specify the maximum towing capacity for both conventional towing (with a hitch) and towing with a dolly. Dolly towing usually has a lower capacity than conventional towing.
* Dolly Weight: The weight of the dolly itself needs to be added to the weight of the Nissan to get the total weight being towed.
* GVWR of the Ford Ranger: Ensure that the combined weight of the Ranger, the dolly, and the Nissan doesn't exceed the GVWR of the Ford Ranger. This information is also found in the owner's manual.
* Gear Ratio and Engine: The engine size and gear ratios of the Ranger will affect its ability to handle the load. A larger engine will generally have an easier time.
In short: You *might* be able to, but it's highly unlikely without significantly overloading your Ford Ranger. Nissan pickups from that era can weigh 3,000 lbs or more depending on the configuration. Most Ford Rangers, especially older models, have relatively low towing capacities when using a dolly.
Before attempting to tow, consult your Ford Ranger's owner's manual to get the correct towing capacity information and follow all safety guidelines. Overloading your truck is extremely dangerous and can lead to accidents, significant vehicle damage, and injury. It's always better to err on the side of caution and hire a professional towing service if you're unsure.
