What Will I Need to Tow a 1600 Lbs Camper Trailer Behind My 2003 Ford Escape With a Tow Package

Question:

Hi there, I have a ~1600lb camper trailer from the 60s that I wish to tow. We are looking at a 2003 Ford Escape for this purpose. It has a factory installed 1 1-4inch hitch and 4 pin wiring. Am I right that an after market curt hitch will install below the factory one easily? In terms of running a brake controller... I would purchase the 4-7pin adaptor then wiring for a controller? Need a little guidance I guess!

asked by: Ben D

Expert Reply:

If the 2003 Ford Escape already has a hitch installed, then the Curt hitch for a Ford Escape part # C13506 will not be needed. The Curt hitch is designed for a vehicle that does not have a hitch already installed on the vehicle. Both the Curt hitch and the factory hitch have the same tow capacity of 3500 pounds. The Curt hitch has a 2-inch opening, and the factory hitch has a 1-1/4 inch receiver openings.

The owner's manual for a 2003 Ford Escape lists the trailer weight range allowable to tow is 3,500 lbs for the Escape with 3.0L engine and tow package. Either the factory hitch or the Curt hitch will be able to tow your trailer based on the specs that you provided.

If you want to change out the factory hitch, I recommend going with a 2-inch receiver opening. The 2-inch opening is the most common size and fits most of the hitch accessories that are available. Many cargo carries, bike racks and other hitch mounted accessories use the 2-inch receiver opening.

I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller # 90885 and installation kit # ETBC7 if you want to use the electric brakes on the trailer. The Prodigy P2 controller is a proportional brake controller that is designed for 1 to 4 axles. A proportional controller will provide you with a smooth and quick braking response, while increasing the brake efficiency of your electric trailer brakes. This controller is designed to brake with the same intensity as the vehicle is braking.

The installation kit # ETBC7 includes connectors, wires, fittings and circuit breakers needed to wire a brake controller and 7-Way connector to your vehicle so you can use electric brakes on your trailer.

I have linked some help articles on brake controllers, trailer hitches and brake controller wiring for you to reference.