Towing with manual transmission

[jaxun]

question ....
Since the rated towing capacity is much higher for the A/T equipped explorer, I assume the weak link is the clutch since everything else is the same.
94 2WD 4D 98K miles - Stock 3500# bumper hitch

jaxun

 

[Anime]

The rear bumper on models equipped to tow is rated at 3500 lbs, but manual transmission models are only rated to tow just under a ton (2000 lbs) The 2WD models will tow more than the 4WD, and the 2 door models will tow more than the 4 door.

The clutch is probably the weak link, but you can replace the clutch with a heavy-duty unit that will do much better than the stock or stock replacement clutch. I know for sure I've exceeded a ton by quite a bit when towing, and never had the clutch slip or even felt like there was a trailer back there. Having the towing package with super engine cooling helps too. Also be sure your rear bumper is up to the task, and is stamped with the tow capacity.

 

[briwayjones]

It's the clutch and the tranny. The clutch being the weaker of the two. They just didn't set up the Explorers with manual transmissions for towing. If you're towing anything halfway significant in a manual Explorer don't tow in 5th gear. Your transmission won't last long.