Class III Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2002 Ford Explorer 4 Dr

Updated 12/07/2015 | Published 12/06/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(119)

$239.41

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(159)

$31.12

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(102)

$250.39

Question:

I just purchased a 2002 Ford Explorer XLS 4 door 4.0L. It has the OEM class 2 hitch. I would like to switch it out for a class 3 hitch pull aluminum covered trailer and 2 sleds. It has 16inch spare tire. Ideally I would like to remove the OEM from a looks perspective, but to this point just found hitches that would not allow for the spare tire. Is there a hitch I can use while retaining the full size spare? Ideally as a swap, but could live with second hitch mount. I do NOT want to drill...just place and bolt. Thanks!

asked by: Jeff

Helpful Expert Reply:

According to my research, the OEM hitch on your is integrated into the rear cross member of the vehicle, and is therefor not meant to be removed. I spoke with my contacts at Hidden Hitch, Curt and Draw-Tite, and determined that there are no spare tire compatibility issues with the hitches available for the 4 door Explorer.

Of the given choices, I'd recommend the Curt Class III, part # C13550. It's meant to fit under the existing OEM hitch, and has the same weight capacities and install procedure as the other hitches at a lower price. Since the quality is on par with the more expensive Hidden Hitch and Draw-Tite, you can choose the less expensive Curt model without feeling that you've sacrificed something.

The Curt hitch installation does not require any drilling.

If your Explorer doesn't already have a 4-pole trailer connector, you can install one using part # 118344.

expert reply by: Mike L