Towing Trailer with Higher GVWR than Tow Vehicle's Capacity
Question:
Hi I plan to tow a 7x14 enclosed TA trailer with ~ 1500lbs payload. I have a 2014 Ford explorer v6 with a class 3 hitch, tow capacity of 5000lbs. The guy at the trailer yard told me that towing a trailer with a gvwr of 7000, even if not fully loaded could be a liability. Gvw of the trailer would be ~3500lbs. Should I be worried?
asked by: Tarek D
Helpful Expert Reply:
As long as the actual loaded weight of the trailer you plan on towing is less than the Ford Explorer's capacity then you are good to go. Since the trailer's GVWR (which refers to the most it can potentially weigh when loaded to its max) is more than the vehicle's capacity, you will just need to be very conscious of any weight you're adding and I recommend weighing it when fully loaded just to make sure it doesn't exceed 5,000 pounds.
It is also a good idea just to verify your particular model Explorer's towing capacity by checking your owner's manual or visiting a local Ford dealer with your VIN.
If you don't yet have a trailer hitch installed on the vehicle I highly recommend the etrailer.com Class III # e98867 that will use existing holes in the Explorer's frame for a no-drill installation. This hitch has a base towing weight capacity of 4,000 pounds that is increased to 5,000 pounds when used with a weight distribution system. I really like the unique matte black finish on this hitch that gives it a rugged look as well as the fact that it's made right here in the USA.
I have attached an install video that you can use for reference.
Most likely your Explorer already has a trailer wiring harness connector but just in case you can use either the Tekonsha # 118540 to add a 4-Way or # 118272 for a 7-Way.
Based on the hitches we have available for your vehicle you will likely need to add a weight distribution system to your setup in order to pull to the Explorer's full 5,000 pound towing weight capacity. It sounds like you expect the loaded trailer to only weigh about 3,500 pounds but if you feel it will be pushing 5,000 pounds please let me know and I will be happy to make a specific recommendation.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 7 Round - Blade
- Tekonsha
more information >
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 400 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Ark Xtreme Off-Road Swivel Trailer Jack w/ 2 Wheels - Sidewind - 12" Lift - Zinc - 770 lbs
- Shop: Tool Box
- Shop: Spare Tire Cover
- Search Results: ark 350
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Video: Performance Tool Torque Wrench Review
- Shop: TremPro 644 Silicone Sealant - 10.1-Fl-Oz Cartridge - Black
- Shop: DeeZee Specialty Series Transfer Tank/Tool Box Combo - Aluminum - 92 Gallon - Silver
- Shop: Torque Wrench with Storage Case - 3/8" Drive - 100 ft/lbs of Torque
- Shop: Erickson Adjustable Wheel Net with E-Track Fittings - 1,166 lbs
- Shop: Adco Spare Tire Cover for 31-1/4" Diameter Tires - Black - Qty 1
- Shop: etrailer Horizontal E Track - Black Powder Coated Steel - 2,000 lbs - 5' Long
- Search Results: slides
- Shop: Vehicle Lights
- Search Results: marker lights
- Search Results: mcl32
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: How Much Trailer Can I Really Tow
- Search Results: blue ox swaypro
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Q&A: Difference Between Underslung and Overslung Coupler For Weight Distribution System
- Q&A: Weight Distribution System For Trailer With Underslung Coupler
- Q&A: Comparing the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Systems Part # BXW4011 and Part # BXW4012
- Search Results: bxw1003
- Shop: Tire Chains
- Shop: RV Covers
- Q&A: Changing 3,500 Pound Trailer Axles to 5,200 Pound Axles
- Q&A: Replacement Axles Needed for Trailer with Tandem Lippert 3,500 lb Axles
- Q&A: Replacement for Lippert 3500 Lb Axle
- Q&A: Recommended ST225/75R15 Trailer Tire Rated for 81 Miles Per Hour