Adding a 2 Inch Trailer Hitch to a 2006 Ford Explorer with Factory 1-1/4 Inch Trailer Hitch

Question:

Hey guys, just stumbled upon you looking for an answer to my question, maybe you can help. I have a 2006 Ford Explorer with the factory 1-1/4inch tow hitch installed. What Im looking to do is remove that and install a 2inch tow hitch, however I want the aftermarket tow hitch to be in the factory position, i.e. where the current 1-1/4inch receiver is, so it gives the factory appearance. Do you have a product that can do that for me? Thanks for your time

asked by: Kyle

Expert Reply:

All of the aftermarket trailer hitches for your 2006 Ford Explorer fit beneath the factory 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch. While you won't be able to install one in place of the OEM hitch, the benefit is that you can use both the 1-1/4 inch hitch and 2 inch hitch (once installed) though not at the same time.

If you think that this will be a good solution I recommend Curt trailer hitch # 13112 as it is the most cost efficient and popular hitch for your Explorer. I have linked a video showing an example installation of this hitch for you.

If you plan on doing some towing I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

The Explorer should already have a trailer connector but if you needed a new one any time you could use # HM40975.