Will an 05 explorer XLT 4X4 4.0L pull a boat

[05explorerXLT]

I just purchased this vehicle a couple weeks ago, so bear with me cuz I know nothing about SUV's. My last 8 vehicles were mustangs. This is the boat I'm looking at and was wondering if this SUV can handle the towing? Thanks.

http://www.tahoesportboats.com/boat/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.specs&boat=1987

 

[dogfriend]

I think it would pull it fine.

The boat weighs ~2300 lbs + ~ 500 for the trailer = ~2800 lbs.


Check your owner's manual for the towing rating for your truck - should be about 4500 lbs or more. Derate (subtract) 2% for each 1000 ft of elevation above sea level where you plan to tow it.

If you don't have one, it would be a good idea to add a secondary trans cooler, especially if you are planning to tow a lot. Use the search function - you should be able to find a lot of info on trans coolers.

 

[blitzk]

I pull a boat about the same size, maybe even a little heavier then that with my 2wd 4.0L XLT... been just fine.

Do you have the towing package/upgrade (class III hitch)?

 

[05explorerXLT]

I pull a boat about the same size, maybe even a little heavier then that with my 2wd 4.0L XLT... been just fine.

Do you have the towing package/upgrade (class III hitch)?

I'm not sure what kind of towing package is on it. The hitch looks very small.

 

[collegeexplorer]

If the reciever is a class 2, you should upgrade to a class 3 to tow that boat. It sounds like you have the class 2 hitch if it looks small.

 

[tower]

I have a class 2 and pull a boat a little bigger plus I have 2 jet skis I pull never had a problem.

 

[A1C_Snowman]

Just remember a tow package is more than just a Class III hitch. Tow package has better gears, and bigger trans cooler.

 

[05explorerXLT]

Just remember a tow package is more than just a Class III hitch. Tow package has better gears, and bigger trans cooler.

Does the class three have bigger or just better gearing?

 

[Gatorblazer]

Class III is the rating for the hitch. The gearing has nothing to do with it. A tow package is a complete setup for towing. This means gears, trans cooler, whatever class hitch you need, plus trailer wiring.

Depending on how far you are towing, you should be fine. Just remember that you can go 80+ with a trailer behind you, and take it out of OD when you go uphill. And the most important rule of towing is to never try to start backing a trailer up with your wheels already turned. This will always lead to sheet metal damage. Just ask my wife

 

[mattyk6]

I have the same explorer, no tow package, and the max trailer weight is like 3300 lbs. I have a 17' Bayliner that weighs in at 2400 lbs w/ trailer that I tow.

I always tow with the OD off, whether it is in town or highway driving. Well, almost, if I am coasting downhill for a long period, then I take if off.

I haven't had any problems.
Matt

 

[05explorerXLT]

Good info. Thanks everyone.

 

[vervepipes]

I tow a 23' cabin cruiser with my 98 4.0 and it actually takes the load better than the f150 we rented to pick it up in the first place

 

[Bottomlesspit]

I also tow our Baja 18 foot boat without any problem. My 05 is an XLT 4.0L 4x4 without tow package. I installed a class III hitch though. She hauls the 3,000lbs of boat just great, but I still like to keep the towing distances down if possible. The X pulls fairly well, but you can feel the slight extra strain on most hills. I always tow with OD off. I am considering upgrading the transmission cooler just to be on the safe side.
Have fun with your new Explorer...they are just wonderful vehicles
Ken