Unweighted option is the 2.7 without a doubt.
However, if I find out more on the 3.0, that could also be an option.
I would be totally ok with the 2.3 as well - as my second option - since people have made ungodly amounts of power out of that engine. However, that engine has a weak block...
I would be surprised if it towed less than 6000lbs.
Everything in this segment is headed towards 7K-7500lbs tow.
Even the Gladiator has a decent tow rating and its essentially based on the ranger.
Ironically enough, the automatic optioned trucks tow a LOT more than the manual (4500 vs 7500)...
I would like to see what would happen if you did that procedure, but left the trans in park.
ALL my other trucks that I have ever flat towed, have been transmission in Park, Transfer case in Neutral.
They are very different. The 2.7 (at least on the F150) makes torque much lower RPM than either the 2.3 or the 3.5.
Probably because its a direct to head turbo.