Why is a Trailer Hitch for a 2013 Ford Explorer Rated Higher than the Vehicle

Question:

I just installed this hitch on to my 2013 Ford Explorer Limited 3.5L V6. Hitch documentation states 4,000 lbs w/o WD towing capacity , whereas Fords towing guide states 2,000 lbs. Which one is it?

asked by: Don U

Expert Reply:

Trailer hitches have their own rating as you have stated and that is the rating for the hitch only. Whichever capacity is lower, the hitch or the vehicle, is the capacity you need to go by. In this case if your 2013 Ford Explorer is rated for 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight that is what you are limited to even though hitch # C13386 is rated for more.

As you can see in the Ford towing guide you mentioned there are some models of the 2013 Ford Explorer that can tow more than 2,000 pounds and the same hitches will fit those models too.

expert reply by: Michael H