Parts Needed To Tow 3,000 Lb Trailer With 2015 Ford Explorer

Question:

My owners manual states that the Explorer FWD with 3.5L TiVCT engine has a 2,000 lb towing capacity without a towing package. With a towing package consisting of an engine oil cooler and weight-carryinginch hitch and ball, it will raise the towing capacity up to 3,500 lbs. With an oil cooler and weight distributinginch hitch it raises the towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs. What would be my best setup o your products including engine oil cooler to accommodate a combined trailer and boat reaching approx 3,000 lbs?

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

You can add a hitch, weight distribution system and cooler to the 2015 Ford Explorer but it will not increase the towing capacity set by Ford for your particular vehicle. It is not possible to increase the towing capacity of the vehicle by adding parts unless they came on the vehicle from the factory. If your vehicle does not have the towing package, I cannot recommend to tow a trailer that exceeds the capacity of the Explorer because it will cause damage to the vehicle's frame and transmission after time however the choice is ultimately up to you.

If you decide to tow the 3,000 lb trailer, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III 2" hitch part # 76034 which is rated for the use of a weight distribution system. I have attached an installation video for your reference.

If you need wiring, I recommend to use part # C56306 since it sounds like your vehicle does not have the towing package. This will give a 7-Way plug at the rear of your vehicle if your trailer uses electric brakes. If your vehicle does a factory towing package, I recommend part # C55774.

For the weight distribution system, the best option is Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control part # EQ37060ET for your 3,000 lb trailer because the Equal-i-zer systems have 4 points of friction sway control to keep the trailer in line with passing vehicles and gusts of wind.

I recommend to add a transmission cooler part # D13501 which comes with everything that you need to install the cooler. This will help to cool the transmission when towing. We do not have an oil cooler available. I have attached a video and help article about transmission coolers.

Please let me know if your trailer has electric brakes because I can recommend a brake controller option.