Explorer As Tow Vehicle
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Explorer As Tow Vehicle
I'm wondering why my 1999 Explorer is exhibiting so much rear end sag when towing my new boat. It towed my old boat fine. My new boat is a little heavier (about 800 lbs) but at 4,700 lbs. it is within the gross limits. The tongue weight of the new trailer is 330 lbs, which also seems to be within the allowed range per the owner's manual. I'm looking for ideas because I am considering leasing a 2002 Explorer and I want to make sure that I can eliminate the sag syndrome. Any thoughts on why I'm experiencing the problem, what I could do about it, and whether the 2002 (with trailer towing package) is a good choice?
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Joined: Feb 2002
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From: Tooele United States
Explorer As Tow Vehicle
[updated:LAST EDITED ON 10-Feb-02 AT 09:56 AM (EST)]You could put some add-a-leafs I believe they were #51's if I remember right the heaviest ones they make for a 99 explorer.I put them on to tow my trailer they worked great but when I wasn't towing it was a stiff ride. so I put some procomp soft ride shocks on the back and it did improve the ride a little as far as the 2002 from what I have seen they have front and rear independent suspension and not much ground clearance.
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Joined: Feb 2002
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From: central PA
Explorer As Tow Vehicle
I've been towing 5000 + lbs with first a 93 then a 96 for almost 9 years, including three coast - coast and one west coast relocation. (military)
tongue weight is crucial, a bit more wouldnt hurt, also the length of the boat may be effecting you. Is the new boat longer or have a heavier motor? that can have a "swaying mass" effect.
is the trailer (new and old) a single or double axle? if changing the different characteristics can throw you.
wind effect? sail area? are new and old boats similar configuration? (i.e. fishing, skiing, bow rider, cuddy ????)
weight/mass load? is the boat evenly proportioned weight wise on trailer? including internal cargo/gear. if one side is heavier it can effect you and add to other problems....
remedies? pull the boat forward more on the trailer, this will increase the tongue and reduce the swaying mass.
a weight reducing hitch will also spread the load over the tow frame rather than rear end, this will reduce sway too.
tire pressures are also crucial, check ALL !
hope this helps.....
mike
tongue weight is crucial, a bit more wouldnt hurt, also the length of the boat may be effecting you. Is the new boat longer or have a heavier motor? that can have a "swaying mass" effect.
is the trailer (new and old) a single or double axle? if changing the different characteristics can throw you.
wind effect? sail area? are new and old boats similar configuration? (i.e. fishing, skiing, bow rider, cuddy ????)
weight/mass load? is the boat evenly proportioned weight wise on trailer? including internal cargo/gear. if one side is heavier it can effect you and add to other problems....
remedies? pull the boat forward more on the trailer, this will increase the tongue and reduce the swaying mass.
a weight reducing hitch will also spread the load over the tow frame rather than rear end, this will reduce sway too.
tire pressures are also crucial, check ALL !
hope this helps.....
mike
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