Is Towing Capacity Different for 2017 Ford Explorer With Aftermarket Trailer Hitch or OEM Hitch

Updated 06/05/2019 | Published 06/04/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(815)

$180.84

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

(494)

$45.07

Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat

(6103)

$8.76

Rapid Hitch Adjustable, Aluminum Ball Mount Kit w/ 2 Zinc Balls - 4" Drop or Rise

(534)

$260.89

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(840)

$693.55

Question:

Ive noticed the aftermarket is about 5-7 inches lower vs oem. Which is better for the vehicle in terms of suspension and pulling power? Also is the oem a class 3? Thanks in advance. Forgot to mentioned mine has the foot activated hatch lift just in case.

asked by: Sun S

Expert Reply:

The actual trailer hitch itself isn't going to be something that affects the capacity (pulling power) or the suspension on your 2017 Ford Explorer. I took a look at the owner's manual, and no matter if you are using the OEM hitch (which I could not find any type of specs on in regards to its class or capacity), or the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 76034 you are limited to a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs, 3,000 lbs (with the Class II Trailer Towing Package) or 5,000 lbs (with the Class III Trailer Towing Package and Weight Distribution System).

The Draw-Tite hitch will sit lower on your Explorer, as you mentioned, but it is a Class III with a 2" receiver and has a 4,500 lb towing capacity or 5,000 lbs with a weight distribution hitch like the Equal-i-zer # EQ37100ET so it will meet all of your towing needs. It will also work with the hands-free liftgate, you will just have to kick your foot to either side of the receiver as opposed to the center.

An aftermarket hitch is the better option because it is far more economical than an OEM hitch and will be the same in regards to how much you can tow. The Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 76034 is durable and strong, as evidenced by its lifetime warranty, and will be perfect for towing with your '17 Explorer.

To do so, you will also need to power your trailer's lights, and to add a wiring harness you can use the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118540; you can use Mounting Bracket # 18144 to mount it to the Draw-Tite hitch. I have added links to video installs of the hitch and both harnesses on a 2017 Ford Explorer for you to take a look at.

I also recommend the Rapid Hitch Adjustable, Aluminum Ball Mount Kit w/ 2 Zinc Balls - 4" Drop or Rise Item # AM3462 which gives you up to 4" of rise or drop which has 1-7/8" and 2" diameter hitch balls to meet your needs; it will require Pin and Clip # PC3 to attach to your hitch.