Real World RV towing

[oldoldtruck]

Hi Everyone, I have a 1995 XLT, AWD,Automatic V-6, with 46,000 miles. It runs great, but I'm wondering how it would do pulling a 4,000 lb travel trailer. I would install a good transmission cooler and rear air shocks. The numbers say it can handle it, but I'd love to hear from folks who have actually done it on an ongoing basis and what the pitfalls might be. My concern is whether the tail would wag the dog...! Thanks

 

[Spdrcer34]

I love my Explorers, but knowing their weakness', I wouldn't tow with the transmission that is behind that 4.0L. The Chassis can take it, the brakes are fine, the engine even has adequate power for flat land towing....it is the transmission that will fail.

If you want to tow, get a V8. Not because they have more power (although it doesn't hurt either), but mainly because they have better transmission options.

Ryan

 

[Joe Dirt]

I kind of concur- especially if it is an original mileage 46,000 mile '95. The '95 is kind of a ******* year with some specialized stuff in the drivetrain that can make finding parts hard sometimes...

How often are you going to tow?

 

[2TimingTom]

Which transmission is it? Was the 5r55e out in 1995 or did that not come until later?

 

[Joe Dirt]

4r55e on the 1995... I believe the 5r55e came out in 1997.

 

[joecrna]

I tow a 6000 lb trailer regularly, it will not wag the dog but the trans has a monster 26500 BTU cooler in addition to the factory aux cooler. Several other modifications to tow even bigger loads in the near future.

 

[oldoldtruck]

Thanks for the input!

I would tow every couple of months,2-400 mi on flat ground. It is an original vehicle and the mileage is accurate. There is no max combined weight rating on the door sticker, only front and rear numbers. The owners manual says a 4 door V6 with auto trans, 4WD and "D" gearing (3.73) can max @9,500 lbs of combined vehicle weight. I know the factory ratings would allow it, but my concern is it really safe and will the proper equipment protect the truck. Again, Thank you all for the insight...

 

[IZwack]

Its not just about the trailer weight - trailer dimensions (length), weight distribution, and the shape of the trailer (cross winds) are a few more factors which play into whether or not the "tail" will wag the "dog". Compare pulling a trailer with a small car on it against a travel trailer of the same gross weight and a gusting 40 mph cross wind. Personally, I would get something with a longer wheelbase to increase the chances of survival in those "oh wtf" moments (animal crosses the road, some one cuts you off, etc..)