Trailer Hitch, Ball Mount, Ball, and Wiring Recommendations for a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Updated 02/21/2011 | Published 02/19/2011

Products Featured in This Question

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

(69)

$346.28

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2639)

$13.66

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3984)

$31.05

Question:

I got a Reese hitch for free and its of 2001 ford explorer and I have a 2001 ford explorer sport track and doesnt fit can change side mounts on hitch

asked by: Bryan W

Expert Reply:

You would not want to modify a trailer hitch to fit a vehicle it was not designed to fit. It is not recommended because it can compromise the structural integrity of the hitch, make the capacity unknown, and it will not be safe to use. We do have many trailer hitches that are designed to fit the 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. I have included a link to the available options.

I recommend the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch, # 13407. This hitch has a 5,000 pound capacity and 500 pound tongue weight capacity and it can be used with weight distribution to reach a 6,000/600 pound capacity. The recommended ball mount is # C45010, for use with pin and clip # PC3. For a ball, you can use # 19260 (1-7/8 inch diameter), # 19247 (2 inch diameter), or # 63847 (2-5/16 inch diameter).

For trailer wiring, you can use 4-Pole Hardwire Kit Including Circuit Tester, # 18252. I have included a link to a video showing a typical installation of this wiring harness for reference.

expert reply by: Michael H