Comparing Curt Trailer Hitches for a 2017 Ford Explorer

Updated 01/31/2018 | Published 01/30/2018

Question:

Hello, how does this hitch differ from the Curt #13100? Thanks !!

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

There is a very subtle difference between Curt hitches # C13386 and the now discontinued C13100; the orientation of the exhaust hanger brackets attached to the side flanges of the hitches. On hitch C13386 they are at a lower angle than on C13100. This allows the newer hitch, # C13386, to also fit the 2018 Ford Explorer.

If you plan on doing some towing I recommend 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 have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

For trailer wiring if your Explorer has the factory tow package but does not have a connector you can use # 118540 to add a 4-Way flat to the rear of the vehicle. If it does not have the factory tow package you can hardwire in a 4-Way using # 118540.

expert reply by: Michael H