2002 V8 Explorer heavy duty towing

[boss429kiwi]

Hi (from New Zealand)

I own a 2002 V8 explorer limited and I have plans towing my enclosed car trailer and expensive payload to a car show (approx 300 mile each way).
The total load will be approx 3300kg (7300lb) including passangers etc.

I have electric brakes, 3500kg (7700lb) factory Ford tow hitch and 3.73 gears. I may be able to get my hands on a set of load levelers also. I will also be taking it to Ford to see what trans cooler I have and get their opinion on cooling.

So theoretically I have met Fords recommendations, but some people look at me side ways when I tell them what I am doing.

What are your thoughts. Has anyone here towed a similar weight. Any recommendations?

Cheers
Gary

 

[boss429kiwi]

anyone?

 

[97awdx]

7300lb is a bit of weight, but I think it can do it. Do you have a lot of long grades to climb?

 

[boss429kiwi]

7300lb is a bit of weight, but I think it can do it. Do you have a lot of long grades to climb?

The first quarter of the trip is a bit hilly.

 

[SyberTiger]

I think I have the same exact vehicle with tow package etc. I tow a horse trailer (2800lbs) with two horses (2400lbs) without a problem. I don't know that I'd want to tow much more though with this vehicle. It sounds like you have another 2000lbs+ than I do. I guess if you take it very slow and easy it is do-able but that's just an opinion without real experience with that kind of weight talking.

 

[boss429kiwi]

I think I have the same exact vehicle with tow package etc. I tow a horse trailer (2800lbs) with two horses (2400lbs) without a problem. I don't know that I'd want to tow much more though with this vehicle. It sounds like you have another 2000lbs+ than I do. I guess if you take it very slow and easy it is do-able but that's just an opinion without real experience with that kind of weight talking.

Hi
Sounds like a similar truck, as I also have 20" alloys with 305/45/20.

Thanks
Gary

 

[shadowless127]

I would suggest a brake controller as well.

You ARE pushing the limits though, idk if I'd trust it at 300mi each way.

 

[SyberTiger]

Oh hell yes...definitely electric brakes AND brake controller. Crazy to do it without!