Recommended Hitch, Wiring, And Ball Mount For 2016 Ford Escape SE

Question:

Hi, I currently own a 2016 Ford escape se. I am look at Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2inch - 75758 and T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector - 118566. With this installed would I be able to tow a 4x8foot uhaul cargo trailer. The requirements for the trailer are - Max load: 1,650 lbs. Gross vehicle weight: 2,500 lbs. max. Must have 1-7/8inch or, 2inch hitch ball 2,000 lbs. minimum Must not exceed maximum allowable hitch ball height 25. I just copied and pasted from the uhaul website. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

asked by: Brian N

Expert Reply:

For your 2016 Ford Escape SE, the Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 75758 is a great hitch option. It has a really nice round bar design and great capacity. I've attached an install video to assist with this bolt-on application. This hitch will work with the hands free liftgate sensors if you have them on either side of the hitch near exhaust.

For your trailer wiring connection, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118566 you mentioned. This will connect easily behind the tail lights of your vehicle to the factory quick connects. This harness will draw power directly from the battery to protect your factory wiring from overload.

For your ball mount, I recommend the etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs # 989900. This will give you two draw bars with different rise or drop and 2 hitch balls to match trailer couplers. This kit comes with the draw bars, a 2 inch and a 1-7/8 inch hitch ball, and the pin and clip all in a nice stowable bag.

This combination will give you far greater towing capacity than your vehicle towing capacity of 2000 lbs. That cargo trailer loaded to max capacity will not be an issue for your vehicle or this combination, so you will be good to go.

expert reply by: Jason S