I have a 2002 Explorer Eddie Bauer 4x4 with the 4.6L V8. It has 136,000 miles on it. I am moving from Alabama to Alaska and will need a good 4x4 for the winter months. I am also needing to tow a car all the way there. Are these trucks good enough to pull (we will say around 8K) accross the country? Also how are these trucks in Sub Zero temps? I have maintained this truck very well. The thing is I oculd trade it in for a F-250 but this is paid off already and I do not want payments. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

I'm not sure if your truck is set up with the Class II or Class III hitch, but here are the towing specs from the 2002 spec's sheet:
Maximum Towing Capacity
4x4, Class II 3,500lbs
4x4, Class III/IV 7,000lbs

Here's the link to it:
Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 2002 Ford Explorer Specifications

Your truck is maxed out at 7k lbs regardless of your setup.

 

not sure on the towing issue, but 8000lbs sounds like a LOT for an Explorer to tow. As far as cold starting.......................they start well in cold weather, if you keep them tuned and running right. If you are worried about it, install a freeze plug heater before the cold weather hits. Wish I was moving to AK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

I think it is a Class IV.. if not definatly a class III. 8000 lbs is a rough guess.. it would be a full car no motor so i would say the car is about 4000 not sure how much full flatbed trailers weigh.. If it comes around 6000 would it hurt to tow almost at max ? its 3640 miles...

 

You'll probably be ok around 6k lbs. That's still a pretty good haul for the Expl though. Might want to consider a weight distribution hitch for the truck/trailer to even things out. Also, tow that load with the overdrive OFF unless you're on dead flat terrain. You'll run more RPM, but without all the downshifts, you should help the tranny be more happy.

 

Ok so i stopped bieng lazy and found out the cars weigh thtat i am towing.. Curb weight is 2960lbs. and i have no idea how much a trailor weighs but i might try to to wit there. This way i can avoid having to trade it in on a truck and have a payment. As far as Extreme cold weather. i am having it Prepped for the winter. Other than that does anyone know how they run in Ice/Snow? with the 4WD on?