Dumb Question: HD Trailer Tow Package
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Thanks, but manual is not much help describing what is included in this package other than wiring for trailer hookup. So far the best description is located via Wikipedia (yes, I know how reliable (or not) that is):
Heavy-duty trailer tow package
Expeditions equipped with the heavy-duty trailer tow package are prepped and readied for towing at the factory. The package includes a heavy-duty V-5 rated Class IV trailer hitch with weight distribution capability, heavy-duty radiator, heavy-duty auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, hitch mounted 4 and 7-pin trailer electrics connector and factory prewiring for an electronic trailer brake controller module. The brake controller wiring harness is located under the dash on the driver’s side for easy installment of the brake controller module.
Heavy-duty trailer tow package
Expeditions equipped with the heavy-duty trailer tow package are prepped and readied for towing at the factory. The package includes a heavy-duty V-5 rated Class IV trailer hitch with weight distribution capability, heavy-duty radiator, heavy-duty auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, hitch mounted 4 and 7-pin trailer electrics connector and factory prewiring for an electronic trailer brake controller module. The brake controller wiring harness is located under the dash on the driver’s side for easy installment of the brake controller module.
#6
According to the 2004 Trailer Towing Guide, it includes the following:
7-Wire Harness & 4/7-Pin Connector
Aux. Auto Trans. Oil Cooler (22-plate)
Super Engine Cooling (1.42" Core Thickness)
Electronic Brake Wiring Kit
It also raises the Maximum GCWR to 14,500 lbs. and the maximum trailer towing capacity from 6000 lbs to 8650 lbs.
You can get a copy of the trailer towing guide here:
https://www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/...ng/default.asp
The information is located on pages 14 and 20.
7-Wire Harness & 4/7-Pin Connector
Aux. Auto Trans. Oil Cooler (22-plate)
Super Engine Cooling (1.42" Core Thickness)
Electronic Brake Wiring Kit
It also raises the Maximum GCWR to 14,500 lbs. and the maximum trailer towing capacity from 6000 lbs to 8650 lbs.
You can get a copy of the trailer towing guide here:
https://www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/...ng/default.asp
The information is located on pages 14 and 20.
#7
That's a great find John--I appreciate it. I was asking the questions because I am planning on towing my 99 Ranger across the country (from WA - to - VA) as part of my military move. Wanted to ensure Expedition could handle the tow (via tow dolly). I also have the 3.73 Limited Slip Axle and electronic brake wiring kit. BTW, I am shipping my 2006 Mustang, but may end up towing (not via tow dolly, but car trailer instead), if the enclosed carrier deal falls through.
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Well after completing almost the 3K mile trek from Washington to Virginia I think I have an obligation to share my experience.
The bottomline is that my 2004 Expedition XLT (tow package, etc) as described above flawlessly towed my 1999 Ford Ranger across the nation via U-Haul Tow Dolly. Here's what I experienced:
- 2004 Expy has an excellent pulling/towing capability.
- Was able to maintain an average speed of 70-80 MPH on flat highways, using cruise control, and under 2,000 RPM.
- Of course, I would slow down going up hill, but if I found myself having to pass an 18 wheeler I could do it with plenty of prior planning.
- I disconnected my 1999 Ford Ranger drive shaft to ensure I did not bust my transmission.
- U-Haul tow dolly was flawless...new design has two pivot points, so backing up is a no-go....had to plan ahead pulling into places.
- Braking and slowing down also took prior planning...panic stop was a no-go. Almost kissed a doggone dear near Ohio...no cars in front or back and this thing had to cross in front of me...thank God it was around 8 am...and I saw it coming.
- As expected, gas consumption was high..overall around $900 worth of gas.
Feel free to ask questions...
Here's a quick pic...some rest stop along the Ohio Turnpike...
The bottomline is that my 2004 Expedition XLT (tow package, etc) as described above flawlessly towed my 1999 Ford Ranger across the nation via U-Haul Tow Dolly. Here's what I experienced:
- 2004 Expy has an excellent pulling/towing capability.
- Was able to maintain an average speed of 70-80 MPH on flat highways, using cruise control, and under 2,000 RPM.
- Of course, I would slow down going up hill, but if I found myself having to pass an 18 wheeler I could do it with plenty of prior planning.
- I disconnected my 1999 Ford Ranger drive shaft to ensure I did not bust my transmission.
- U-Haul tow dolly was flawless...new design has two pivot points, so backing up is a no-go....had to plan ahead pulling into places.
- Braking and slowing down also took prior planning...panic stop was a no-go. Almost kissed a doggone dear near Ohio...no cars in front or back and this thing had to cross in front of me...thank God it was around 8 am...and I saw it coming.
- As expected, gas consumption was high..overall around $900 worth of gas.
Feel free to ask questions...
Here's a quick pic...some rest stop along the Ohio Turnpike...
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