Getting the Correct Parts to Tow a Trailer

Updated 05/25/2020 | Published 05/14/2020

Question:

Hi, I have a Ford Explorer with a trailer hitch class III. I am looking for a small utility trailer and wonder whether I can also use a trailer which is compatible with a hitch receiver class II or if I can only use one with a class III hitch receiver compatibility. Thanks for support in advance. Best

asked by: Simone

Expert Reply:

If I'm understanding you correctly the answer is yes you can.

Your Explorer has a Class III trailer hitch receiver that measures 2 inches on the inside. This means it must have a Class III ball mount that fits into it to tow a trailer, like part # C45030. I've linked all of our ball mounts that'll fit to this page.

On the other side the trailer has a coupler that fits onto the hitch ball. With a trailer that small it's probably a 1-7/8 inch ball. It could be a 2 inch or even a 50 millimeter (more common outside of the US) ball as well. This is what you need to know in order to make sure your Explorer can tow your trailer.

I linked our selections of each hitch ball size as well. Once you know which size ball the trailer's coupler fits you need to choose a ball mount with the correct rise or drop. This requires some measuring on vehicle and the trailer. I attached an article that explains the entire process. With the ball mount picked out then you need to find the correct hitch ball that fits that ball mount. The diameter of the ball hole in the mount needs to match the hitch ball's shank.

Once you have all of these pieces that fit together you'll be good to go.

If you also need wiring for the Explorer we have that too but I need to know what model year it is.

expert reply by: Charles S