Please excuse me if this should have been in the "towing" threads, but could someone tell me if the 6 cylinder Explorer has enough power for towing - I'm thinking of maybe a trailer with a couple of ATV's or dirt bikes? Or do you need to go with 8? Also, since I'm new to Explorer's, are there any years you folks know to stay away from used? Thanks in advance for anyone that answers.

 

If it has the SOHC V6 (not the OHV) and a towing package, it should be OK with that load. If you can find a V8 in good condition, there's not much difference in MPG.

Steve

 

That small of a load, any Explorer engine should do fine. As for the OHV vs. OHC debate, Some people are of the opposite opinion as Steina. Some feel that, because the OHC's torque curve is set so high in the RPM range that the OHV is actually better for towing. Of course, there are also some who are of the opinion that you shouldn't tow anythign with a short-wheel-based vehicle like an Explorer. IMO, a couple of ATV's shouldn't be heavy enough to really matter.

 

mrshorty -

Good point about the torque curve! I was basing my opinion on the '99 OHV (160hp) I used for towing vs the '02 OHC (210hp) I used for the same boat/trailer rig; the '02 handled hills much better. I can't remember if the '99 had the tow package (the '02 did), so if it didn't that would be one reason the '02 pulled hills better.

Steve

 

I've got both. A '92 with the 4.0L pushrod (OHV) engine and an '03 with the 4.0L OHC engine. Both 4X4 and both with the trailer towing package. I wouldn't hesitate to tow the load you're describing with either one. However, note that they both have the towing package option that was available for that year, and that does make a difference. A lot more difference than the two engines.

 

How does one know if they have the towing pkg.?

 

On Gen III (2002+) Explorers, you've got the tow package if the receiver hitch is 2" and the trailer connector is 7-pole.

Steve

 

On the older ones (Gen I) you can look for the extra cooler for the transmission. On my '92, the axle code is D4. I don't know if that indicates the 3.73 rear end or not. You could jack it up and count the drive shaft revolutions for one wheel revolution. The older explorers did not have a hitch reciever as part of the towing package, that only started on Gen III and as stated above it would have the Class II/IV (2 inch) reciever.