Comparing Trailer Hitches For 2014 Ford Explorer XLT  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitches designed to fit your 2014 Explorer are the Draw-Tite Max Frame, part # 76034, and the Curt, part # C13386, and etrailer.com # E98867.

Depending on a couple of comparisons you may decide on one or the other. Both are Class lll hitches and have a 2 inch receiver opening.

The Curt hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 400 lbs while the Draw-Tite has a 675 Lb tongue weight capacity. The Draw-Tite has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs while the Curt can tow 4,000 lbs. Depending on what you are towing or using the hitch for, these numbers may not really be that important. You want to make sure you do not exceed the towing or tongue weight capacity of your Explorer.

The Curt hitch is made in the US while the Draw-Tite is not.

Both hitches are built very well and will provide years of service but if it were me I would go with the US made Curt hitch, part # C13386.

If you plan on doing some towing you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

If you need trailer wiring I recommend the T-One Wiring Harness, part # 118540.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the electrical connections and helps prevent corrosion.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

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