Recommended Towing System Components Including Transmission and Oil Cooler for 2016 Ford Explorer

Updated 03/26/2018 | Published 03/23/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(815)

$171.86

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6680)

$161.44

Channel Style Adjustable Ballmount - 2" & 2-5/16" Balls - 14,000 lbs

(583)

$204.87

Derale Fluid Control Thermostat Kit w/ 3/8" NPT Ports

(1)

$94.71

Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler with Multiple Threads

(17)

$244.37

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3417)

$127.95

Question:

Dear Etrailer.com I want to start towing with my 2016 Ford Explorer XLT 3.5L V6. This SUV is stock with no tow package. I want to know the best trailer hitch, oil cooler Transmission and Engine and thermostat combination that you sell which would work the best with my SUV and any other related items I may need. Thank you so much.

asked by: Jeff M

Expert Reply:

For your 2016 Ford Explorer XLT, I recommend you start with the hitch, wiring, and ball mount. For a hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76034. For your trailer wiring, I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118540. It sounds like you will be towing heavier trailers, so I also recommend the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 and brake controller # 90195. Then for a ball mount I recommend the Curt Channel Style Adjustable Ball Mount # C45900 which gives you an adjustable ball height to tow your trailer level.

For your transmission and oil cooler, I recommend the Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler with Multiple Threads # D15902. Then you will add the Derale Fluid Control Thermostat Kit w/ 3/8" NPT Ports # D13011 for the thermostat.