TOWING

[MICHAEL PARKER]

Could anybody out there tell me the towing capacity of the tow ball that fits in the rear bumber.
I have a huge framed after market tow frame fitted but it looks crap.
I want to import one of these tow balls but i tow 1800kg .
Ford will not tell me the towing capacity as the tow ball is illegal over here.
thanks

 

[JDraper]

Over here, the rear bumpers are rated as a Class II hitch, which corresponds to 1587 kg. You're better off purchasing a class III frame hitch to pull 1800 kg. Class III hitches are rated to roughly 2275 kg. Class III hitches sell for roughly $100-125 USD. There is one called a "Hidden Hitch" that doesn't look as big and boxy as the standard Class III. Take a look at JC Whitney Hitches.

 

[MICHAEL PARKER]

Thanks , The hitch i have on now is rated to 3500kg and is mounted to extended bolts holding the rear bumper on to the chassis, so my thinking is to reinforce the tow plate that is attached to the bumper by extending the plate to the chassis, what do you think?
If towsure who made the tow bracket rated it @3500kg mounted to the bumper brackets, then it stands to reason the chassis is rated the same ..I think !

 

[Bill H]

Towing ball-hitches

Class I: 1 & 1/78 inch up to 2,000 pounds
Class II : 2 inch up to 3,500 pounds
Class III : 2 inch up to 5,000 pounds
The explorer's bumber mount is rated @ 3,500 pounds,class II.
Please also look into load equalizing and anti-sway hitches.You'll be glad you did. Hope that helps Bill

 

[MICHAEL PARKER]

Thanks Bill , I will have to find out what size the uk hitch/ball is as we only have one size.
I just like the no fuss looks of the ford tow gear, and fixed to the rear step i think they look good
michael