What is included in a trailer tow package III?

[Ferdinand37]

I recently placed the order for XLT, the next day I signed the offered, they ordered the car. They called me said the system would not go through unless they put the tow package in the order. And the order was placed. I was not happy about that, since I don't need this $500 tow package, and it was not on the offer i Signed. I may have to bargain about this when I pick up the car.

Two question I have:
1, What is included in the package, some towing accessories?
2, Will the tow hitch be installed when I pick up the car? (I hope not, since I don't need that and I prefer to have the original cover comes that with the vehicle.)

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum.
Something's not right here. Both the Class II ($375) and Class III ($570) tow packages are an OPTION. Which Equipment Group did you order? 200A, 201A or 202A and is it FWD or AWD?
None of the Equipment Groups requires that you purchase the tow package. Sounds like the salesman is trying to earn a few more $$$.The Ford website used to break down what was include but it no longer seems to do that. From what I can recall, it includes a different transmission, an oil cooler, larger radiator, tow mode button and the hitch. This is not a dealer installed option if ordered. It comes that way from the factory. There is a cover over the actual hitch which also comes with 4 and 7 pin outlets.
Check the following link to see what it looks like without the cover. http://www.explorerforum.com/xenforo/index.php?threads/got-into-a-rear-collision.457661/
The Explorer without a factory tow package doesn't have a cover as the bumper is just a one piece item.

Peter

 

[SimonW]

I think by hitch, he means the draw bar and ball.
I don't think that is included in either package.

Simon

 

[peterk9]

I think by hitch, he means the draw bar and ball.
I don't think that is included in either package.

Simon

He mentioned he had to order the Tow Package.

 

[SimonW]

He mentioned he had to order the Tow Package.

Which means all the things you mentioned are installed on the car, and there is a socket behind the cover on the bumper.
It does not mean there is a ball sticking out on a draw bar to attach a trailer to.

Simon

 

[Ferdinand37]

Welcome to the Forum.
Something's not right here. Both the Class II ($375) and Class III ($570) tow packages are an OPTION. Which Equipment Group did you order? 200A, 201A or 202A and is it FWD or AWD?
None of the Equipment Groups requires that you purchase the tow package. Sounds like the salesman is trying to earn a few more $$$.The Ford website used to break down what was include but it no longer seems to do that. From what I can recall, it includes a different transmission, an oil cooler, larger radiator, tow mode button and the hitch. This is not a dealer installed option if ordered. It comes that way from the factory. There is a cover over the actual hitch which also comes with 4 and 7 pin outlets.
Check the following link to see what it looks like without the cover. http://www.explorerforum.com/xenforo/index.php?threads/got-into-a-rear-collision.457661/
The Explorer without a factory tow package doesn't have a cover as the bumper is just a one piece item.

Peter

So the package is build-in inside the vehicle, not some accessories that can be installed?

 

[Ferdinand37]

Welcome to the Forum.
Something's not right here. Both the Class II ($375) and Class III ($570) tow packages are an OPTION. Which Equipment Group did you order? 200A, 201A or 202A and is it FWD or AWD?
None of the Equipment Groups requires that you purchase the tow package. Sounds like the salesman is trying to earn a few more $$$.The Ford website used to break down what was include but it no longer seems to do that. From what I can recall, it includes a different transmission, an oil cooler, larger radiator, tow mode button and the hitch. This is not a dealer installed option if ordered. It comes that way from the factory. There is a cover over the actual hitch which also comes with 4 and 7 pin outlets.
Check the following link to see what it looks like without the cover. http://www.explorerforum.com/xenforo/index.php?threads/got-into-a-rear-collision.457661/
The Explorer without a factory tow package doesn't have a cover as the bumper is just a one piece item.

Peter

It is XLT, AWD, 202A, with technology package.
Since the website clearly states the tow package is optional, and I check some deal's inventory, I do find some XLT without the tow package, I don't think I am going to pay for this.

 

[SimonW]

Hi Ferdinand,
Let me try again.
Yes the tow package is adding things to the vehicle to improve its towing capability according to the package you ordered.
Class II is fairly light duty, and Class III is heavier duty (5000lbs in this case) and includes things like a transmission cooler.
The "hitch" itself is the is bolted (or welded) to the underside of the vehicle, and it has a square "receiver" into which you insert a draw bar with a ball to actually attach a trailer.
This receiver is behind the cover in the rear bumper.
To tow anything you'd need to purchase a draw bar with appropriate drop/rise for your trailer, install the right sized ball on the bar, remove the bumper cover, insert the bar into the receiver, hook up the electrics, and off you go.
Normally the receiver and sockets for the electrical hook-ups are hidden behind the bumper cover.
Hope that helps
Simon

 

[Ferdinand37]

Hi Ferdinand,
Let me try again.
Yes the tow package is adding things to the vehicle to improve its towing capability according to the package you ordered.
Class II is fairly light duty, and Class III is heavier duty (5000lbs in this case) and includes things like a transmission cooler.
The "hitch" itself is the is bolted (or welded) to the underside of the vehicle, and it has a square "receiver" into which you insert a draw bar with a ball to actually attach a trailer.
This receiver is behind the cover in the rear bumper.
To tow anything you'd need to purchase a draw bar with appropriate drop/rise for your trailer, install the right sized ball on the bar, remove the bumper cover, insert the bar into the receiver, hook up the electrics, and off you go.
Normally the receiver and sockets for the electrical hook-ups are hidden behind the bumper cover.
Hope that helps
Simon

I see. Appreciate that.
Need to come up a different bargain strategy I guess,lol.

 

[peterk9]

It is XLT, AWD, 202A, with technology package.
Since the website clearly states the tow package is optional, and I check some deal's inventory, I do find some XLT without the tow package, I don't think I am going to pay for this.

I don't think you should have to pay for it either. I'd be very curious as to the salesman's explanation for telling you he couldn't place the order without the Tow Package. Totally untrue unless he didn't know what he was doing. Cancel the option or if he tells you it's too late then tell him you won't pay for it and if he insists that you go through with it I'd tell him to cancel the deal and seek out the general manager and make a complaint.

Peter

 

[kmarnes]

I'd say show him your configuration online.

 

[Macnerd]

I wish I had gotten it just for the different transmission and the beefed up cooling on the drivetrain. But, not everyone cares about that. I agree with Peter, I'm sure if they want to sell the car they'll give you the $500.