Is an Oil Cooler Required for Towing with a 2016 Ford Explorer

Question:

Hi. Im likely getting a hitch for my 2016 Ford Explorer. The owners manual says that for their class III hitch package, an oil cooler is included and required. For your class III hitch, in the documents and videos there is no mention of the required oil cooler. So Im confused about whether your hitch meets Fords requirements.

asked by: Gary H

Expert Reply:

I do have the items you will need to tow with your 2016 Ford Explorer but we do not offer complete towing packages. Instead, you will need to purchase the items separately. According to the Ford Trailer Towing Guide, the towing package for the 3.5L V6 engine came with a oil cooler, 7-way trailer connector, and a trailer hitch receiver. The towing package for the 2.5L I4 engine came with a 4-way trailer connector and a trailer hitch receiver.

For an oil cooler, I recommend using the Derale Stacked-Plate Engine Oil Cooler Kit part # D15602. This kit will do a good job of keeping the vehicle's engine oil cool and comes with everything needed for installation. You will want to use the thread adapter with the yellow tape to install the sandwich adapter on your engine.

I am not sure what you mean by "meets Ford's requirements" but I can state that the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76034 has been tested and confirmed to fit your vehicle. This is a Class III hitch receiver with a 2" receiver tube opening. This hitch is also the highest rated trailer hitch receiver we have for you vehicle.

I have attached an installation video of this hitch installed on a 2016 Ford Explorer for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L