Can this unit tow?
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New User
Joined: Feb 2007
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Can this unit tow?
I've finally found the towing forum - apologies to those back at the Explorer Forum........
I'm looking at a used '03 Explorer to tow my travel trailer (3600lbs). The axle code on the door is D4 which I understand is the 3.73LS axle. The manual indicates that this unit has a towing capacity of 5380lbs with a Class III tow package. Unfortunately it is equipped with only a Class II hitch.
I want to upgrade the setup but am concerned that I may not be able to duplicate the OEM installed tow package. Is there Class III hitch that can directly replace the Class II hitch? Are there issues with installing the wiring and 7-pin plug? Are there any difficulties installing a trans cooler?
I'm looking at a used '03 Explorer to tow my travel trailer (3600lbs). The axle code on the door is D4 which I understand is the 3.73LS axle. The manual indicates that this unit has a towing capacity of 5380lbs with a Class III tow package. Unfortunately it is equipped with only a Class II hitch.
I want to upgrade the setup but am concerned that I may not be able to duplicate the OEM installed tow package. Is there Class III hitch that can directly replace the Class II hitch? Are there issues with installing the wiring and 7-pin plug? Are there any difficulties installing a trans cooler?
Junior User
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 63
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From: Shady Grove Pa.
A class III will bolt in right where the class II is. Oil coolers aren't hard to install, take the return line from the tranny out of the radiator hook cooler lines "inline" then hook cooler line to radiator. There is a small circuit inside the tank that cools the fluid, you just tap into it before it goes in to the rad.
You will find under the rear of the truck probably all the wiring right there to tap into for your Bargman Plug.
You will find under the rear of the truck probably all the wiring right there to tap into for your Bargman Plug.
CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
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From: Lake Havasu City AZ
BluegrassMan -
Recommended install for a tranny cooler is AFTER the cooler in the radiator, not before.
"Most cooler manufactures and automobile manufactures information we have read, recommends installing the coolers In-Series with the factory radiator cooler for maxium cooling efficiency.
So unless the manufactures who have spent 1000's of hours testing different installations are wrong, the suggested cooler installation is in-series......
Transmission > Radiator cooler > Auxillary cooler > then Back to the transmission.
If you must bypass the radiator because the cooler tube is leaking or for other reasons, be sure to increase the size cooler you install by 1 to 2 sizes".
Steve
Recommended install for a tranny cooler is AFTER the cooler in the radiator, not before.
"Most cooler manufactures and automobile manufactures information we have read, recommends installing the coolers In-Series with the factory radiator cooler for maxium cooling efficiency.
So unless the manufactures who have spent 1000's of hours testing different installations are wrong, the suggested cooler installation is in-series......
Transmission > Radiator cooler > Auxillary cooler > then Back to the transmission.
If you must bypass the radiator because the cooler tube is leaking or for other reasons, be sure to increase the size cooler you install by 1 to 2 sizes".
Steve
Junior User
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 63
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From: Shady Grove Pa.
tranny cooler
I thought about it after reading your post. Makes sense to me! What do I know I drive a Dodge..... it has engine oil cooler, tranny cooler, power steering cooler, They were put on at the factory.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 7,298
Likes: 45
From: Southern California
Always happy to welcome a couple of new guys to the Towing forum. Thanks for finding us and joining in! 
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CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
Likes: 0
From: Lake Havasu City AZ
BluegrassMan -
Yeah, it's always better to get that equipment from the factory if it's available.
Steve
Yeah, it's always better to get that equipment from the factory if it's available.
Steve
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