Towing w/ 06 Explorer V8 - Aftermarket Hitch Update & what else?
Hi Guys-
New to the site, just picked up my pre-owned 2006 Explorer V8 a day or two ago, replacing my 2003 Suburban. I haven't owned an explorer since the mid 90's, so it's been quite a while since my last Ford vehicle.
I have 3 primary reasons for towing;
1) 18' Bowrider w/ trailer weighs about 2500lbs
2) Flat bed w/ Kubota Tractor weighs about 3000lbs
3) Race trailer w/ car weighs about 5000lbs
One of the reason I choose the explorer V8 was it's substantial towing capacity. However, the explorer I ultimately purchased came equipped only with the factory Class II 1 1/4" towing package.
I've done alot of searching and I know the class II hitch is frame mounted and unrealistic to remove & replace. It seems an obvious option to include when ordering a new one for only $250. I have found that an aftermarket class III hitch can be mounted underneath the class II quite simply.
Based on my requirements, it seems this aftermarket class III hitch is the most cost effective solution. Does anybody have any experience with these undermount hitches? Is their another solution I am missing? Any recommendations on trans coolers or other equipment for this model?
Thanks,
Z
Hi Guys-
New to the site, just picked up my pre-owned 2006 Explorer V8 a day or two ago, replacing my 2003 Suburban. I haven't owned an explorer since the mid 90's, so it's been quite a while since my last Ford vehicle.
I have 3 primary reasons for towing;
1) 18' Bowrider w/ trailer weighs about 2500lbs
2) Flat bed w/ Kubota Tractor weighs about 3000lbs
3) Race trailer w/ car weighs about 5000lbs
One of the reason I choose the explorer V8 was it's substantial towing capacity. However, the explorer I ultimately purchased came equipped only with the factory Class II 1 1/4" towing package.
I've done alot of searching and I know the class II hitch is frame mounted and unrealistic to remove & replace. It seems an obvious option to include when ordering a new one for only $250. I have found that an aftermarket class III hitch can be mounted underneath the class II quite simply.
Based on my requirements, it seems this aftermarket class III hitch is the most cost effective solution. Does anybody have any experience with these undermount hitches? Is their another solution I am missing? Any recommendations on trans coolers or other equipment for this model?
Thanks,
Z