Can anyone help me understand what the towing capacity is for my 97 explorer v8 awd 5.0l? I just bought a 24 foot four winns that weighs 4000 lbs... with trailer probably 5000 lbs.... had a class 3 hitch installed with max load of 7500 lbs

 

dr -

I'd be real surprised if that boat/trailer rig isn't closer to 6000-6200# - you really should get it weighed, full of gas and any gear you're planning to carry in it. Also, are you planning on having 4 people and gear in the Explorer? Do you know what the rear axle ratio is? If the trailer has tandem axles (I assume so), does it have brakes on both axles? Surge or electric brakes?

Steve

 

I back up Steina...Plus, do you have P rated tires or LT? I would bet you have P's (not very suitable for towing IMO). Your Explorer could probably put it in & out of the water just fine- The issue is safety on the road. Before I got my PSD, I rented a truck to pull our boat on long trips.
FYI- I am certain that trailer has surge brakes.

Happy Holidays everyone!

 

Hi dr: Your Explorer should tow the trailer ok. Make sure you have good tires on it. My 97 explorer had Goodyear Wranglers, and was dangerous to tow with. I replaced them with Michelin Cross Terrains and it was 100% better. The problem was the side walls were to soft and the trailer would cause the truck to sway. I belive the towing capacity of the 97 V8 AWD is 7000 lbs. (this is from memory)