2004 XLT Towing question

I recently purchased a 22 fishing boat. Boat, motor and trailer weigh approximately 4700-5000 pounds. I see my towing capacity is rated at 5300 yet I have a class II hitch installed on my truck which is rated at 3500 pounds. Anyone know the process of swapping out the factory class II hitch for a higher rated hitch? Can I remove the factory class II hitch myself? In looking at it, it appears the bumper may have to come off to slide it out. Strange why Ford would install a smaller hitch when every other SUV of it's size has a tow hitch with a higher towing capacity. All answers and suggestions appreciated.

 

[Norad]

Look at Reese tow powers website and see what hitches they have to offer for your X. Also another way if time was a little on the short side would be to go to Uhaul and have them size up a hitch for you. Have a good one

 

[jrford]

If you have a Class II and your Axle Code is a 45 (Open 3.55's) your limit is 3500lbs not 5,300. To really tow Class III +5klbs, not only will you need a ClassIII hitch but also 3.73 Gearing. As to the ClassIII hitch its a bolt on 20min if you can find one. I found mine at a junkyard with Wiring. I bought it to mount a bike rack and tow a 1000lb boat which isn't a big deal with the setup I have.

 

[2002 Eddie Bauer]

Just upgraded from the Class II to the Class III. I found a used Class III WITH the factory 7 pin wiring harness. That harness alone usually runs $85-$120, I got all for $75. This would be the way I would go. I am now towing my 5200# travel trailer with now problems (V8 engine of course). The bumber cover comes off in about 10 minutes and then the old reciever has three bolts on each side for a total of six. Let me know if I cam be of some help, as I just did this a week ago.
Thanks