Trailer Hitch

[Purp1eOne]

Dumb question.

Do you need a tow package to get the trailer hitch?

 

[peterk9]

Dumb question.

Do you need a tow package to get the trailer hitch?

If you are talking about getting the hitch from the factory then I'm quite sure you would have to order the tow package. You can always add a hitch later if you don't get the package but then you will be limited to 2000 lb. The factory class III will allow for towing up to 5000 lbs. The tow package also includes a Tow switch to improve transmission operation.

Peter

 

[Purp1eOne]

If you are talking about getting the hitch from the factory then I'm quite sure you would have to order the tow package. You can always add a hitch later if you don't get the package but then you will be limited to 2000 lb. The factory class III will allow for towing up to 5000 lbs. The tow package also includes a Tow switch to improve transmission operation.

Peter

I just want it for a bike rack

2000 lbs is plenty

 

[megerian]

Keep in mind that the tow package also has a nice cover and an overall very clean look when you are not using the hitch. If you add a hitch later, I feel it would not look nearly as nice, and you would either have to cut into the rear valence or have the tow hitch really low, below the valence.

 

[Ryan327]

I don't even need the tow package as i have nothing to tow, but i figure that if i ever change my mind it's cheap insurance and will improve resale. I'd say get it from the factory, but thats just my .02

 

[Nairb4190]

I didn't get the tow package so why do I have a trailer sway option on the left driver panel. Should it be left on or off or does it not matter?

 

[JohnBoyToo]

Are you asking about a button or a setting ?
Which button ?

 

[Purp1eOne]

Keep in mind that the tow package also has a nice cover and an overall very clean look when you are not using the hitch. If you add a hitch later, I feel it would not look nearly as nice, and you would either have to cut into the rear valence or have the tow hitch really low, below the valence.

That blows. Hmmm...... don't think I want to do that then. So you can't add/replace the "cover" when you add the hitch?

This doesn't look too bad but I would rather hide it.

 

[nick75035]

I had an aftermarket hitch put on for a bike rack by the dealership the day I bought my 2011 XLT. The hitch worked fine but the exhausts rattled against it if I hit a bump or any kind of rough road. It drove me nuts to the point I had it removed and had the "Factory" hitch without the tow package installed.

Im not saying all aftermarket hitches will have this problem, but make sure there is plenty of clearance between the hitch and the tail pipes.

 

[peterk9]

I didn't get the tow package so why do I have a trailer sway option on the left driver panel. Should it be left on or off or does it not matter?

The Trailer Sway setting in the left hand screen under Driver Assist is on all models whether or not you have the factory tow package. The default setting is 'ON' which means that even if you turn it OFF, the next time you start the vehicle, it will turn ON again. It is part of the vehicle stability control system. I have driven mine with the setting both 'ON' and 'OFF' and didn't notice any difference in the steering or vehicle behavior.

Peter

 

[Nairb4190]

Thx for the info.

 

[Steve7647]

Purp1eOne,

Is that a picture of the trailer tow package or an aftermarket install?

 

[peterk9]

Purp1eOne,

Is that a picture of the trailer tow package or an aftermarket install?

Steve, that is an aftermarket one. I'll see if I can find a link that shows the factory hitch.
Wasn't able to located the exact thread I was looking for but here is a link to some photos that RonJrSVCMGR took and posted on his site. The first 4 pics are the factory installed hitch.

http://api.viglink.com/api/click?fo...tures%20etc/&jsonp=vglnk_jsonp_13691484140399

Peter

 

[sdm9465]

I had an aftermarket hitch put on for a bike rack by the dealership the day I bought my 2011 XLT. The hitch worked fine but the exhausts rattled against it if I hit a bump or any kind of rough road. It drove me nuts to the point I had it removed and had the "Factory" hitch without the tow package installed.

Unfortunately, I didn't order mine with tow package and now I want a hitch for a bike rack too. How much did it cost to get the factory hitch installed? I assume you also had to replace the bumper cover with the one that has the removable panel -- is that correct?

 

[spr]

I didn't get the tow package so why do I have a trailer sway option on the left driver panel. Should it be left on or off or does it not matter?

Its default computer controlled compensation when the system detects abnormal yaw at the rear of the vehicle. It (I believe) adjusts brake and acceleration at the appropriate wheels to help counteract it. As far as I know you cant shut it off permanently - but you can disable it while the vehicle is running. (It re-enables itself next time you startup). I think you get a big fat safety warning if you disable it. Comes standard and is not specifically part of the tow package.

I dont think it is detrimental in any way and may even be helpful in counteracting events leading to rollover - but I'm guessing. I would just leave it alone.

 

[megerian]

As far as I know, you cannot install the exact factory hitch as a post-purchase option.

I think it would look different. Bottom line (IMHO) is that the trailer package is worth it, for the clean look, the hitch cover, and for resale value. Unless, of course, you have no need to either tow something or use a bike rack.

On my previous vehicle, the Ford Expedition, the hitch stayed on all the time, and of course looked rusty and dirty like everyone else. With my new explorer, I take the extra step of removing the hitch and replacing the plastic cover when its not in use, because I like the clean look.

 

[Steve7647]

GREAT thanks Purp1eOne!

 

[jetpilot747]

After looking at the option closely, I chose to get the hitch option when I ordered by 2014 Sport. It comes with the 4 and 7 pin connectors both, plus it adds an engine oil cooler. Seems like a good deal with those included with the hitch. I live in a hot climate so I figured the oil cooler would be nice even if I'm not towing anything.

 

[JohnBoyToo]

I was wondering about that ....
is it an oil cooker or tranny cooler that's added with hitch option...

Hadn't researched it as the ExSport the wife picked just happened to have hitch option... probably won't tow much with it as we have a 350 platinum for those duties !

 

[jetpilot747]

The ford website, when looking at the options, says its an engine oil cooler. It was the same when I was looking at the Limited and Sport versions, probably the rest too.
http://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/trim/sport/

With the class III hitch, two wiring connector types and the oil cooler, it seemed like a bargain to me. I've seen aftermarkets for not much less than the ford option. At least for X-plan pricing of that option I thought it was a good deal for what you get.