03 Limited Towing Question

[scottrappley]

Just bought an 03 limited with the 4.6L, 133,x.. miles. How do I know what comes with this explorer, ie trans cooler, oil cooler, etc....

I am looking to purchase around a 20' travel trailer sometime next year. I just want to make sure this vehicle is already equipped without me really having to do anythng more. I have already replaced every fluid in her except the brake fluid.

I am looking at a trailer probably around the 4500lb mark I presume.

Appreciate any input. Thanks.

 

[jrford]

Whats the axle code on the door? This will tell you what the OEM spec is, for an '03 the only thing that changes was the Axle ratio and maybe an oil cooler.

Door sticker, under 'Axle'
45 - 3.55's - 3500lbs, although some have posted, they got by with a lot more weight than spec although i wouldn't want to make it a habit and you would be best to keep O/D off.

D4 -3.73's - 7100lbs tow rating (also might have an oil cooler) with the tow package.

But you do have the V8 same as mine, but i have the 3.55's. thus a 3,500lb limit. Tows great, and i've added an OEM class III hitch, so the hitch size is not a sure thing on the tow rating.

Trans cooler - you already have one, big at that too, same as tow vs non-tow.
Oil cooler - not sure, might be helpful but i've never need one only towing a dozen times a year, daily would be different, or long hauls.

 

[scottrappley]

I know the axle is the 3.73LS.

So you say it does have the trans cooler huh. Cool. Then I guess I do not need to worry about adding one for towing an RV.

Oil cooler... Would like to know if it has one but did not plan on adding one.

Definately from all the readings will be using the tow/haul mode which disables the OD.

Anymore input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[thebrakeman]

Easiest way to tell (for '02 and later) is to check the integrated receiver size:
1¼" square = Class II rating up to 3500 lbs MAX tow rating. This includes an aux trans cooler, and wiring for 4-flat connector (lights only).

2" square = HD Class III/IV tow package. V6 is Class III (up to 5000 lbs); V8 is Class IV up to 7000+ (depending on equipment). This has the same trans cooling, and adds wiring for electric brakes and 12V charge line. All '02-'05 (regardless of engine) also get a bump from the 3.55 gearing to 3.73. '06-'10 V6 trucks also get bumped to 3.73 rear end. '06-'10 V8 trucks retain the 3.55 gearing with full ratings, due to the new 6-speed auto trans introduced in '06 on the V8 only.

So, if you have the 2" (factory tow package), you are all set. If you only have the 1¼", you are limited to 3500 lbs MAX tow rating, and that's if it only the driver in the truck (no passengers or cargo).

 

[jrford]

Easiest way to tell (for '02 and later) is to check the integrated receiver size:

For '06 true, but note that the hitch is a bolt on up to '05. 20min and $75 will get you the 2" receiver. . . .so the hitch isn't 100% fool proof method of telling on an '02-'05 although i don't think many have done the swap. I might be the only one in MI lol but i seriously doubt it.

To the OP Brakeman has some very good points, but with the V8 and 3.73's you can tow all day everyday . . .lol.

 

[thebrakeman]

I thought these got the included/integrated hitches as standard starting in '02. I've never seen an '02 or later Explorer/Mountaineer that didn't have the receiver. Or are you saying '02-'05 was bolt-on, while '06-'10 is welded-in?

To the last point, certainly. My point was that it's easier to check the receiver size than it is to check the axle code, especially if you don't remember what the codes mean, and have look them up.

Either way, 4500 lbs loaded will not be a problem.

 

[jrford]

Or are you saying '02-'05 was bolt-on, while '06-'10 is welded-in?

it's easier to check the receiver size than it is to check the axle code, especially if you don't remember what the codes mean, and have look them up.

Yes,
02-05 bolt on simile easy swap, less than 5% may have changed it (guessing here) but it dosent change the tow rating however, just more mounting options, Cargo, Bike racks, etc. . .

06-up welded not so easy, probably 100% accurate

True if you forget the codes or what it means. . .

 

[scottrappley]

Checked it last night and the hitch is a 2". I did not get a chance to look under the hood or vehicle to determine that any coolers were installed. Based on what I have been hearing I should be all set other then getting an equalizer WD hitch when I purchase the trailer. That will not be until sometime next year though.

Any more input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[thebrakeman]

You need to install an electic brake controller, too. I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy or Tekonsha P3. Get either one of them from etrailer.com or rvwholesalers.com, and get the Ford-specific pigtail at the same time. One end plugs into the Prodigy, the other end plugs in to the socket under the dash (near the e-brake pedal). Simple plug-n-play.