Recommended Brake Controller for 2014 Ford Escape with Class II Towing Package

Question:

Just bought a Escape 2014 with Class II Towing Package. Can I tow a Palimino Palimino G 145 Treck. The ad for it says that the weight is 2791lbs. Escape towing capacity is 3500lbs dry weight. Dont understand all theses weight configurations. What does GVWR mean?

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

For your 2014 Ford Escape when you have the Class II trailer towing package you mentioned, the manufacturer rates your towing capacity as 3500 lbs. The Palomino G145 Trek when loaded needs to remain under that max capacity, but it is compatible. The GVWR is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, which means the maximum load that your trailer can be when fully loaded. This can be higher than your vehicle towing capacity as long as you aren't loaded past the vehicle capacity. For instance your trailer could have a GVWR of 3850lbs and you can tow it as long as the fully loaded weight is actually under 3500 lbs. The rating can be higher, but the actual weight cannot be.

To get you fully set to tow that trailer, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195. This is a great brake controller that has easy to understand diagnostics, easy to use presets, and an LCD screen to give you clear diagnostic information. You will also need the # ETBC7 to complete your wiring of this brake controller. I've attached a video to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S