2003 explorer limited 4.6L

[scottrappley]

I know this information is probably here somewhere but I do not have the time to search. I am looking at purchasing a travel trailer in the 19-23 foot range. Weight will probably be anywhere from 3000-4500 pounds. Does anyone think I would have any problems towing with my explorer? Also they are talking about a husky 1200# hitch or an equalizer. Not sure what way to go there either. I do not think my ex would have too much problem towing but I have never towed that much weight with it before. Any thoughts from anyone? Thanks.

 

[jrford]

i just pick up a TT this summer, 20' 3.5k lbs Heartland MPG.
What size is the hitch? Do you know the gear ratio on the door sticker? Because if the door code is 45 you have 3.55's and a rating of 5k lbs. With the D4 code it jumps to 7k lbs. If you have the 3.55's you can get away with it but i'd keep the O/D off. Don't forget to add 'Wet' or loaded weight. Mine tops out at 4.5 lbs 'Wet' or loaded, also figure the Frontal Area add to the weight.

With my '10 V8 Class III its a little different but no problems what so ever. I got a few extra hp and the 6r60 which has different gearing, but similar. I towed a small boat with the '04 V8 but 3.55's with an upgraded hitch to class III, it had no problems what so ever. Downright zippy in fact.

 

[scottrappley]

It has the class III hitch, 3.73 rear end. The trailer I am picking up tomorrow is 4,000lbs dry weight.

The explorer also has the trailering package so I can turn O/D off. I am "guessing" I will probably be turning it off while towing this unit. I am also

getting the equalizer brand weight distribution hitch/sway bar.

Kind of nervous. From what I have been reading it "seems" I should not have any problem towing this unit.

Any more thoughts based on this information?

 

[jrford]

Any more thoughts based on this information?

Tow away it should be easy. I also have the weight distribution hitch, it seems to work well. Although i almost don't need it for short trips. You will need a brake controller, i got the Prodigy.

 

[larivies]

I am looking at purchasing a travel trailer in the 19-23 foot range. Weight will probably be anywhere from 3000-4500 pounds. Does anyone think I would have any problems towing with my explorer?

I'm using my Explorer 2002 XLT 4.6l 4x4 3.73 to tow my boat. Not every weekend but getting it in/out of water in sprint and fall season.

My trailer overall lenght is 29'
Trailer (1700 lbs) + Boat (5200 lbs) = 6900 lbs

I'm using 4x4 low to get it out of water and I disable overdrive all the time.

Picture: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B3qZqb8OAcCSVmpCRWVRZ1JiR0U

 

[lexrid]

Tow away it should be easy. I also have the weight distribution hitch, it seems to work well. Although i almost don't need it for short trips. You will need a brake controller, i got the Prodigy.

Completely off topic, but love the Central license plate. Fire up Chips!

 

[thebrakeman]

Here is the 2003 Ford Towing Guide

See page 22, but read the entire document!
2003 V8 with tow package is going to have the 5-speed trans, 3.73 gearing, and max rating somewhere around 7000 lbs, and 11,600lbs GCVWR (combined rating).

11,600 - 4500 (empty Explorer??) - 4000 (empty trailer) = 3100 lbs
General estimate for trailer options and cargo (over dry) is up to 800 lbs
3100-800 = 2300 lbs
That's the approx. capacity for people and cargo in the Explorer.
Subtract that out, and see what's left over.
Then you'll want to consider what kind of cushion you want to keep.