A couple questions about towing...

[HIJACKER]

I have a 2004 Limited with the large towing package and a V8. My plans are to occassionally pull a 20 foot Haulmark Enclosed Trailer and a 2900lb show car.

Would it be ok to do this on the current setup of the vehicle? Is a transmission coller required? I thought since this is the V8 with the large tow package welded on the frame I should be ok.

Thought?

Here's the SUV.
http://www.sc-customs.com/storage/Explorer/DSCN1404.JPG
http://www.sc-customs.com/storage/Explorer/DSCN1405.JPG

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I'd say you'll probably be OK, assuming the trailer is about 2k empty, you should be under your gross rating. I'd suggest you look for some extended towing mirrors, the trailer will be wide. Are you planning on towing long distances?

 

[HIJACKER]

I'd say you'll probably be OK, assuming the trailer is about 2k empty, you should be under your gross rating. I'd suggest you look for some extended towing mirrors, the trailer will be wide. Are you planning on towing long distances?

The farthest would be about 150 miles probably. All highway though.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Lock it out of OD, make sure your trailer brakes and lights work and see how she does.

 

[CDW6212R]

Ditto, stay out of overdrive at all times when more than about 20% throttle is used. Basically stay out of it to be safe, Ford still uses a band for overdrive gears. Another trans cooler would be wise for regular towing, add it with the others, don't remove or replace anything. Good luck,

 

[HIJACKER]

I called and verified and according to the dealer, there are 2 tranny collers already installed on the Explorer Limited.

The trailer is a 20' CarMate that weighs 3500lbs. The car going inside is roughly 3000. So, I'm pulling a total of 6500lbs.

That should work fine right?

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Check your capacity in your owners manual- I think the late model v8's have a high towing capacity.

 

[CDW6212R]

That is still a lot of weight, I would definately add another cooler. Do not count the stock radiator cooler, all vehicles have those. Only count the one in front of the radiator, those are great for normal or light towing. Heavy or regular towing should demand better cooling. Transmissions have a lifespan directly related to temperature. If you lower the temperature 10-20%, then you gain 10-20% more life for the trans. Good luck,