Towing with bumper hitch

Hi everyone
I have a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport with bumper towing package. We are thinking of buying a tent trailer and I was wondering if anyone out there has towed a tent trailer with the bumper hitch. The trailer uses a 2" ball. Has anyone towed a tent trailer with the bumper hitch and what are your suggestions, or thoughts on this.
Thanks :exp:

 

[MountaineerGreen]

No. Buy a $125 hitch and do it right. Most popups are at least 2000 lbs, many are way heavier. I wouldn't trust the bumper with that kind of weight.

 

[jwh1056]

Agreed those bumpers can only take so much and how often do you know how much weight you really know you are pulling. you got to think the camper may weigh 2000 lbs but you can put another 1000 lbs in camping stuff in it. at 3000 lbs thats most likely 300 lbs down force on the bumper and 3000 lbs pulling on it.