Preping Ford Explorer

[tpenfield]

Explorer is a decent sized SUV with a good tow capacity, sure it can't down like an F-150 but it tows just fine. I am not buying huge boats like many here, I am stopping at 19' max. Whole setup will be well under 3500 lbs. I am confident the Explorer will tow what I need it too since I know I have towed with an old dying escape that towed it without much issue. Pushed the limits of the Escape but won't with the explorer.

Any type of questioning about towing capacity will get a gambit of responses. Some folks tow right up near the rated capacity and other folks like to have a factor of 2X ( or 3X). That is why you some times see an F-250 towing a 19 foot bowrider and you also see an Explorer or Ford Ranger towing a 24 foot cruiser.

IMO - a lot has to do with how you tow (i.e. drive) if you are towing up near the rated capacity and driving like you are in the NASCAR circuit, then there is cause for concern. If you are respective of your vehicle and its limits, then not a great concern.

My own personal experience towing 6500 - 7000 lbs with my Explorer (chassis version) is that it towed fine, but I would not run it beyond 60 mph , because it did not feel as stable as I would like beyond that speed. I probably could have towed a 4000 lb load with more authority and speed, but 60 mph got me where I needed to go. :thumb:

I think your 3500 lb load with the uni-body Explorer would be fine, as you are at about 70% of capacity.

 

[Redfred1]

Admiral's '07 Explorer came with the hitch (1") solid bar. Pulls boat fine. Has the anti-sway button (have never used). Don't know if it would improve mileage or not; don't consider it when towing.