Best Trailer Hitch Receiver and other Parts to Tow a Trailer with a 2011 Ford Explorer
Question:
I want to buy a towing receiver for my 2011 ford explorer...wanted to make sure I receive the right one
asked by: Brian D
Expert Reply:
I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76034 for your 2011 Ford Explorer. It bolts right up on your vehicle. I've linked an install video for you.
If you're going to be towing with the Explorer you'll also need a ball mount, hitch ball, pin and clip, and trailer wiring.
To power a trailer's lights use the Tekonsha Wiring Harness # 118540. It simply plugs into a black connector beneath the rear of your Explorer on the passenger side.
You'll also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I've attached link of our selection of ball mounts for a 2 inch hitch receiver as well as an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop you may need. Once you choose a ball mount you can then choose a hitch ball to fit it.
One way to make choosing a ball mount easier is to go with an adjustable ball mount like the B&W Tow & Stow # BWTS10038B. It features the ability to be flipped under the hitch when not using it and will provide up to 5-1/2 inches of rise or 5 inches of drop.
For a pin and clip to fit you can use # PC3 or if you'd like to have a locking pin you can use # BX8858.
I've also included links to some articles on towing that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 >
B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 5" Drop, 5-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Adjustable Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Matte Black
- Drop - 5 Inch
- Rise - 5 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- B and W
more information >
Blue Ox Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Standard Pin Lock
- Keyed Unique
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Flush Pin
- 2-3/4 Inch Span
- Blue Ox
more information >
Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span
- Hitch Pins and Clips
- Standard Hitch Pin
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 5/8 Inch Diameter
- 4 Inch Span
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 675 lbs TW
- 4500 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Where is Brake Controller Install Port for 2018 Ford Explorer
- Q&A: How to Determine if 2014 Ford Explorer Has Factory Tow Package
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is Standard Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern for 14 inch Wheels
- Q&A: What Does Harness on 2017 Ford Explorer Look Like for Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Replacement Circuit Breaker for a Harbor Freight Badland ZXR 3,500 lb Winch
- Q&A: Size of Factory Bolts For Installation of Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver in Factory Weldnuts
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: Ball Mount Basics: Weight Capacity, Class, and Size
- Article: Troubleshooting 4 and 5-Way Wiring Installations
- Article: Trailer Hitch Balls