I've skimmed through the other answers, but can't quite find my answer, so here's my situation (I tried to do my homework before asking the question).

The first owner handily left the window sticker, making it easier to track down those numbers. Mine is a 2000 Explorer XLS with the 4.0 L OHV, with "optional equipment" of the 3.55 regular axle (there was NO CHARGE for this great option). Not surprisingly, my Explorer is meagerly equipped for towing. What we want is a small travel trailer, and the owner's manual says the max trailer weight is 3960. Now, I've been looking at trailers in the 3500-and-under area, and that would seem to keep me in good range. Also, I would like to be able to take it on longer trips (i.e., the beach to escape my land-locked state).

Here are my questions: that 3960# seems to be optimistic from what I've heard and seen from most people, yet it's what the book says. I would prefer to stay under it (considering the loading), but how far under is the honest-to-goodness bottom line? Also, what sort of hitch do I need -- Class III, or bigger? And I'm hearing a lot about sway, etc. How much trouble with that wheelbase and motor would I have? I'm thinking of buying myself a, um, (((dakota))) with 20-inches more wheelbase and more towing capacity and wonder if I should just forget the Explorer for the camper -- the Explorer would be better for the family.

Thanks in advance, Ford-gurus.

 

laytham -

I had a '99 XLS with the 4.0L OHV (160 HP) and towing package with the 3.73 LS rear axle. With my 3340 # boat/trailer (weighed) on her tail + 4 people and coolers, she struggled with anything other than flatland towing (which is why I traded for an '02 with the 4.0L SOHC). By the time you get water, propane, food, utensils and whatever else in that TT, it's going to weigh LOTS more than the mfg's claimed weight. Plus, I'm sure there will be more than 1 person in your 2000. Bottom line, I think you'll be pushing your Ex to the limit with no tow package - IMHO.

Steve

 

Your humble opinion is well appreciated -- that's what I'm looking for, people who had been there, done that. Guess I'm going to look for very light trailers or another way to haul them.

 

Bad news, but that combination is definitely not good for towing. I would not tow more than 2500 lbs with your Explorer. Although the 4.0 OHV is a great engine, with good low end torque, and great reliabilty, your 3.55 gears, and the weight of the Explorer is going to give that engine a good work out.

I have a 93 4.0 4x4 Ranger with a 3.73 axle. It strugles to pull a 3000 lb travel trailer up the mountains where I live.
I have a 97 4.0 Explorer 4x4 4.10 gears,with the SOHC motor, and it does great!
There is a world of difference between the two.

 

(((dakota))) You might ask the guys that know Dodge better than I do, but last I knew the Dakota used the small (will break quickly under load) rear end. Unless they have upgraded it to a full size rear end don't do it. If you don't drive lot's of miles where a small decrease in gas mileage would hurt,( you didn't say if you are running stock tire size), but 4.10 gears would give you a lot more pulling power (especially in 3rd gear) and you still have overdrive when you are not pulling a hill..