Only really got one question about trailer hitches

[CapnEnnui]

Hey, a friend and I are planning on shipping my Explorer over to the mainland US and going on a roadtrip, with an RV trailer, but I don't think I have a trailer hitch and I don't really know what to get or what I'm doing. Both of us suck with cars, so if anyone has any recommendations for a trailer hitch for a 2004 Explorer, V6, only 2 wheel drive, that could haul around a medium sized RV trailer, that'd be great. Any other tips concerning trailing is welcome, thanks!

 

[JDraper]

Welcome to the forum!! You're probably going to want to buy a Class III hitch for the truck to tow with. You can get one from many places online (Dead Link Removed , http://www.jcwhitney.com etc.) or from most auto parts stores or RV dealers. I'd buy a brand name hitch like Reese, Hidden Hitch, or Valley Hitches. Stay away from the "universal" hitches and get one dedicated to your vehicle. You can expect to pay between $100-$200 for one.

Since you're not familiar with towing, I'd suggest stopping by an RV dealer. They should be able to get you pointed in the right direction.

Good Luck!

BTW, moving to the towing forum.

 

[CapnEnnui]

Thanks for the help! Another question, what type of gas mileage can I expect if I'm towing a trailer? I'm unsure about the weight, but I expect it to be a pretty small RV trailer and can only guess, really. My car should be getting 16 for cities and 20 for highways right now. I'd ask an RV dealer these kinds of questions, but I don't think there is one on this island (RVs are kinda useless here)

 

[Nocturnall]

I think that mostly depends on size and weight of the trailer. I think I've read a 10% decrease is to be expected.

 

[JDraper]

Depends upon the trailer, how heavy your right foot is, and the terrain. I used to tow a Suzuki Samurai behind my 01 Explorer with the 4.0SOHC motor, and I got 10-12 mpg at 70 mph on hilly terrain.