Adding a Towing Package

[HookEmHard84]

I've got a 2000 Ford Explorer XL (6 cylinder, 4.0L), it doesn't have a towing package and I'm thinking of adding one to tow my boat. Anyone ever done something similar before?

From looking online I have found a few "towing bar" kits, where you essentially bolt the bar on to the frame. Anyone have any experience with these?

My boat is 18.6' I figured if the thing is completely loaded down with gear it would weigh somewhere in the 2500-3000lb range including the trailer. The manual for the Explorer says its rated up to about 4700lbs, does that sound about right? Think I'll be able to get the thing up the boat ramps?

[SpecialK]

Look into adding a transmission cooler as well.

[CJH]

Look into adding a transmission cooler as well.

And uprated BRAKES!!! If you can't stop, nothing else matters.

[Scott K]

These guy s both touched on the biggest thing. First and formost, make sure that the brakes are up to par. Most explorers came with the same brakes with or without the towing package, but if someone did brakes on it, and installed the $19.99 pads, and $20 rotors, I would look into replacing them with the better quality pads and rotors. The tranny cooler would be next. If it didnt have a towing package, it more then likely doesnt have a tranny cooler on it, I would install the tranny cooler before making any trips with it more then 25 miles. Then get yourself a class 3 or 4 hitch, that bolts to the frame, and not just to the bumper.

[HookEmHard84]

Thanks guys, exactly the kind of info I was hoping for.

[Walleyehooker]

Some places that sell hitches also install them for very cheap. If you dont have the tools it can be well worth the money. They usually do wireing harnesses and trany coolers to.

Some trailers have surge brakes on them which helps a lot.

If your truck has a tranny cooler it should be attached to the radiator and you can see it threw the grill

[HookEmHard84]

Any recommendations on a shop that does it?

[Walleyehooker]

search trailer hitches stillwater mn and you will find some. U haul I think does them to but not sure on their prices. Any place that sells truck toppers etc. and aftermarket truck parts usually do them.

[SpecialK]

If you are near Burnsville there is a hitch place on Hwy 13 that I have had 2 hitches installed. Decent pricing and seemed like nice folks.