Just purchased a 2004 Explorer XLT with 4.0L V6. It appears to have a factory towing package. It has a trans cooler - looks factory - a bolted on 2" trailer hitch with welded steel chain rings (not through-and-through) that extends beyond frame with a "wing" on each side to distribute load transversely, and a 7-pin hookup - wiring also looks factory (at least DIO).


Two questions:
1) Can anyone confirm this is the Class III hitch (I assume so) and
2) I assume there is a brake controller connector somewhere under the IP but I cant find it - anybody know where it is?


Appreciate any help! Thanks.

 

I don't think the factory 2" receiver was a bolt on unit in 2004. Does it fit in the rear bumper valence cutout or does it hang below the bumper cover?

If it does have the factor tow package, the brake controller pigtail is likely taped up to a wiring harness behind the glove box door. Once you release the glove box door to the all the way open position by squeezing the sides, you should see a rectangular gray connector on the upper left side of the opening.

-Rod

 

Rod -
Thanks a million! The connector was right where you said it was. It was taped up kind of weird, and if I didn't expect it to be there, I would still be looking. I was able to confirm that this was the original Class III factory hitch. I was able to run the VIN and get the original build-out info.


Thanks again for posting the response - I really appreciate your time.


- Bob

 

Great, glad to hear you found the information you were seeking!

-Rod