Towing with the 5.0 explorer

[ProjectAviator]

With the possibility of my 96 Limited being toast. I may be looking for another vehicle.( I like having a safety net) What I may be looking for is a towing rig. I am wondering about using a explorer with a 5.0 for towing. I am looking to tow my Harley in bad weather, but the possibly of wanting to haul my 95 Ex on farther runs( where breakage may occur, Like Moab, ETC) Would a 5.0 Ex be able to handle it or should I look into a full size tow rig like a Suburban or Expedition.

Tim

 

[jimbo74]

do not tow an explorer with an explorer

it will pull it power wise, but it will not stop it, and it will not have any give in terms of weight, an explorer either flat or on a trailer will weigh the same or more than the towrig, and that is all bad

 

[JDraper]

A 5.0 Explorer will easily tow your motorcycle on a trailer, but towing another Explorer with it would not be recommended. It can be done, but you're treading on thin ice at that point. If you definitely plan on towing your other Explorer, I'd go with a bigger vehicle.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

With the right trailer (i.e. one with brakes) it wouldn't be that bad, but it would be near the limits of the 5.0. Occasional towing, maybe, but, if you intend to tow often or long distances, you'd be better suited with a larger tow vehicle.

 

[CDW6212R]

Agreed, all of that. You might look at the 2003+ Explorers if you like the body size or style. The later trucks have a better(higher ratio) first gear, much better for towing. I drove for quite a ways with an Aviator towing a medium sized camper. That has the same basic trans, and it pulled on hills like the camper wasn't there, 70mph+.

For the heavy weight loads, look at transmissions and brakes. Good luck,

 

[manaen]

Also if you can stick to a dolly, or a light aluminum trailer for towing the ex it should be fine as long as the trailer has brakes. Just make sure you check your GVW numbers with everything on it.