I have towed 2,500 pounds comfortably with my 99 Marquis with a class 3 hitch for the last 5 years. I have installed a transmission cooler and never had a problem. I just bought a new boat that will bring my towing weight over 3,000 pounds. I had a 94 that was rated to tow 5,000 pounds (with the towing package)and although Ford does'nt offer the towing package anymore, they still offer the same performance package with the differnt rear end and dual exhaust. I have read many reviews / post etc. that downgrading is more of "liablity thing" for Ford - not mechanical.
My question to the forum is:
1) Why would Ford downgrade its towing capacity by 3,000 pounds for this model? I don't see any mechanical changes that should adverssly effect it.
2) Eventially I would like to upgrade to a 2003 or newer model. Why would Ford further downgrade towing capacity to only 1,500 pounds for the 2003 and newer? I understand that Ford upgraded the frame that year - perahps that it. I appreciate any comments - thanks!