Towing with a 99 Explorer

[mrj62]

I bought a 99 Explorer, Eddie Bauer, in April 2022 for $2500. It is in near perfect condition, but has just over 200k miles. It runs great, the trans was rebuilt about 4000 miles ago, has all maintenance receipts from past 16 years, and a really good Carfax report. I am planning a move to Colorado in about 6 months (approx 1300 miles) and would like an opinion, from experienced owners, as to whether or not you would recommend towing a small, enclosed, u-haul trailer. Also, just general information on this particular vehicle, things to look for/expect, concerns, issues, etc. It's my first Explorer. Have had several older model Rangers, a brand new 2003 F-350 Super Duty (what a beast, a friend said it should beep when it backs up), and a couple cars over the years. Any feedback will be appreciated.

 

[Turdle]

Vehicle specs?

Engine, gear ratio?

Please add these to your profile page.

 

[donalds]

Need more info.

 

[Josh P]

Where at in Colorado? The explorer will pull the trailer fine. How much trailer pulling experience do you have in snow and on ice?

 

[Fix4Dirt]

I bought a 99 Explorer, Eddie Bauer, in April 2022 for $2500. It is in near perfect condition, but has just over 200k miles. It runs great, the trans was rebuilt about 4000 miles ago, has all maintenance receipts from past 16 years, and a really good Carfax report. I am planning a move to Colorado in about 6 months (approx 1300 miles) and would like an opinion, from experienced owners, as to whether or not you would recommend towing a small, enclosed, u-haul trailer. Also, just general information on this particular vehicle, things to look for/expect, concerns, issues, etc. It's my first Explorer. Have had several older model Rangers, a brand new 2003 F-350 Super Duty (what a beast, a friend said it should beep when it backs up), and a couple cars over the years. Any feedback will be appreciated.

as long as they are in good condition either the sohc or the v8 should pull it alright since you have an EB i *think* you have either 373 or 410 if v6 or 373 if v8. both of those should be ok for a small trailer. just check brakes etc. for the sohc if the trans recently had an r&r it should be good. make sure you make sure trans fluid is good and maybe upgrade coolers if its the 5r55e

 

[C420sailor]

Your biggest challenge will be renting the trailer. Uhaul has a policy to not rent to Ford Explorers. It’s a long story involving litigation.

Sometimes you can pull a fast one on a lazy employee by saying it’s a Mountaineer

I’ve pulled those smaller enclosed trailers with my SOHC. It handles the single axle great. The double axle…not as much. I wouldn’t want to tow the double axle into the Rockies heavily loaded. Just me. Flat land? Sure.

 

[Mbrooks420]

Where I’m at I can pick up trailers after hours through the app. Make the reservation as a Mountaineer with the same specs.