2017 Explorer trailer questions

[michael86]

Hello,

I have a 2017 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD without Tow Package.
I am planning to buy a RV trailer (3000 lbs) in the next few years and it would be nice but not absolutely necessary to tow smaller utility trailers in the meantime.
Now my question.
What I noticed is, even if I install all parts of the factory tow package (hitch, cooler, transmission and who knows what else) I will still be limited to 2000 pounds and there is no way to change that limitation, right?
Even if I do it on my own risk to damage the car; will I break any laws?
Will it maybe smarter to buy a new one with the Class 3 pack and trade the old in?
Thank you

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum Michael.
You are correct that officially the vehicle will be limited to 2000 lb. You could likely tow more than that but as has been mentioned, the tow rating is what it is when it leaves the factory. As for the legalities, I can't say. Should you be in an accident while exceeding the tow rating, I guess there could be issues.

Peter

 

[DogRunner2]

You're fine.Don't over think it.

 

[JAPeterson]

On the trailer you better figure closer to 4,000+ than 3,000. If the information plate on the trailer says 3,000 it means that is what it is dry. No propane, no water, no food, and nothing in the trailer except for what it came from the factory with.

The legalities of it may come bite you in the rear depending on the state that you live in. It's may be best to check into your states towing laws.

 

[michael86]

On the trailer you better figure closer to 4,000+ than 3,000. If the information plate on the trailer says 3,000 it means that is what it is dry. No propane, no water, no food, and nothing in the trailer except for what it came from the factory with.

The legalities of it may come bite you in the rear depending on the state that you live in. It's may be best to check into your states towing laws.

Thank you so far.
I want to import a European trailer when its old enough so I don´t have to worry about the modifications and paperwork.
That model I want says 1350 kg what is about 3000 lbs +/-. And that is the total weight limit for the trailer when its loaded.
The trailer itself maybe has 2000 lbs but its useless when its empty.
I dont have a problem when its a little overloaded but +1000 lbs is too much I think.
The state laws don´t matter for me because I also want to travel in other states. Then I would have the same problem again even if its ok in my state.

I think the best is to buy a new Explorer (same year, same model, just with tow package) but currently it really hard to find a good deal.
I just wanted to ask, maybe there is another way around it.
And I have a Class D License by the way but that should be fine.

 

[JAPeterson]

Instead of another Explorer look to a F150. Lot higher tow ratings and unless you need the third row seating it would work a lot better.

 

[michael86]

Problem solved. I found almost the same car and sold mine. Didn´t pay that much more for it and also has less miles on it.

Instead of another Explorer look to a F150. Lot higher tow ratings and unless you need the third row seating it would work a lot better.

Trucks are useless for me. If then I would get an Expedition instead of a F150+.
I just need a every-day-car that is able to tow small and average trailers sometimes.

 

[Satz]

I towed a 2500 lb pop up and then a 3500 lb pop up with mine. Never had any issue . popup ofcourse has less wind resistance .

my explorer with the 3.5 naturally aspirated engine still going at 197k.