2005 Explorer Hitches?
Thread Starter
|
Junior User
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
2005 Explorer Hitches?
I have a 2005 Explorer that the hitch is actually the rear bumper with an 1 1/4 hitch opening, class I/II. The factory hitch is bolted on the fram with 3 bolts on each side. Does anyone know if I could just order the same part with a 2" hitch bar opening and swap it out? I am not getting any straight answers from my dealer, they keep insisting that I have to mount a second hitch under the factory one, and I don't like the look of a double decker hitch. I cannot see any reason why it can't be done unless something is done differently to the frame it is connected to at the factory for a class III/IV hitch.
CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
Likes: 0
From: Lake Havasu City AZ
Why don't you check out an '05 with tow package (2" receiver) at the dealer? That should tell you real quick if the swap is feasible. If you have the V6, you're missing the oil cooler and wiring/relays for a 7-pin connector.
As you're finding out, it's always cheaper to get a truck/SUV with the factory tow package; adding/changing afterwards can be a PITA.
Steve
As you're finding out, it's always cheaper to get a truck/SUV with the factory tow package; adding/changing afterwards can be a PITA.
Steve
Junior User
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 74
Likes: 0
You can use the Class III hitch as a direct replacement. You'll need to remove some bumper cover screws as well, but it's an easy-ish swap. The biggest problem you will encounter is covering the 7 pin hole, since you only have the 4 pin connector.
Junior User
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 99
Likes: 0
From: Newmwnstown, PA
Just bought a used 2005 4L EXP XLT with the 1 1/4 inch receiver. ALL of my current towing parts are the of 2 inch variety.
Does an earlier comment from Steina mean "engine oil cooler" or tranny cooler or both? If engine oil cooler, is that difficult to add to my Explorer? If I don't intend to exceed the current tow ratings of the 1 1/4 inch hitch, are these coolers necessary? Thanks.
Michael
__________________________
2005 Explorer XLT - 39K
1994 Explorer XLT 4.0L - 178K
1994 Explorer Limited 4.0L - 153K
Does an earlier comment from Steina mean "engine oil cooler" or tranny cooler or both? If engine oil cooler, is that difficult to add to my Explorer? If I don't intend to exceed the current tow ratings of the 1 1/4 inch hitch, are these coolers necessary? Thanks.
Michael
__________________________
2005 Explorer XLT - 39K
1994 Explorer XLT 4.0L - 178K
1994 Explorer Limited 4.0L - 153K
CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
Likes: 0
From: Lake Havasu City AZ
Michael -
If your '05 has a V6 then it's missing the engine oil cooler; V8s didn't need them. You can buy an adapter to go from 1.25" to 2" but I sure wouldn't trust it. Your tow limit is 3500# (no 3.73 LS rear gears). If you're gonna be doing lots of towing a Class III/IV receiver would be the way to go; with so many Explorers sold a wrecking yard should have one cheap.
Steve
If your '05 has a V6 then it's missing the engine oil cooler; V8s didn't need them. You can buy an adapter to go from 1.25" to 2" but I sure wouldn't trust it. Your tow limit is 3500# (no 3.73 LS rear gears). If you're gonna be doing lots of towing a Class III/IV receiver would be the way to go; with so many Explorers sold a wrecking yard should have one cheap.
Steve
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
turborich
Explorer, Sport Trac, Mountaineer & Aviator
6
Mar 20, 2012 06:41 PM
ajgrossmeier
Explorer, Sport Trac, Mountaineer & Aviator
21
Jun 9, 2004 10:26 AM
