NJExplorerFan
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- May 29, 2009
- Messages
- 332
- Reaction score
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- City, State
- New Jersey
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2015 Limited
Guys - I found this great link which shows towing capacity of Explorers. In particular, I'm looking for a 2003 - 2005 model. It seems that only the 3.73 gear ratio will tow a car. As explained to me by a Ford Rep., the GCWR weight is the total weight the engine/transmission can tow. The truck weighs 5,560 lbs. So an example, lets' take a 4.0L with a 3.55 gear ratio with a 8K lb. GCWR. Take the 8,000 lbs. minus 5,560 lbs. of the Explorer, and you can only tow 2,440 lbs. with an Explorer with a 4.0L V6 with 3.55's.
For me to tow my Mustang, it appears I will need to get either the V6 or V8 with a 3.73 gear ratio class III/IV. It's max. weight tow is 10K lbs minus a 5,560 lb. truck gives me an ability to pull 4,440 lbs.
https://www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/rv_trailer_towing/2004/2004RVTrailer_Escape_Explorer.pdf
The question now is this... As I shop around for a 2003 - 2005 Explorer, how will I know what class towing package it has? Or, can I just see somehow the gear ratio on the door panel label? If I just see a 3.73 package, I know it will be the Class III/IV package which will handle towing my Mustang on an open trailer.
Your input is greatly appreciated.
For me to tow my Mustang, it appears I will need to get either the V6 or V8 with a 3.73 gear ratio class III/IV. It's max. weight tow is 10K lbs minus a 5,560 lb. truck gives me an ability to pull 4,440 lbs.
https://www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/rv_trailer_towing/2004/2004RVTrailer_Escape_Explorer.pdf
The question now is this... As I shop around for a 2003 - 2005 Explorer, how will I know what class towing package it has? Or, can I just see somehow the gear ratio on the door panel label? If I just see a 3.73 package, I know it will be the Class III/IV package which will handle towing my Mustang on an open trailer.
Your input is greatly appreciated.