Recommended Class III 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver For 2003 Ford Explorer 4-Door

Updated 02/12/2021 | Published 02/11/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(102)

$244.95

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$89.12

Question:

Hello, I have a 2003 Ford Explorer that’s 4 door. I’m looking to purchase a class 3 2” receiver hitch to replace the stock one that rusted out. I have already removed the old one and looking to install a new one in its place. I’ve been reading most of the class 3 hitches install beneath the factory hitch. Do you have a class 3 hitch that will install where the factory hitch was so it doesn’t hang beneath my rear bumper?

asked by: Daniel B

Expert Reply:

I have another option for you, but unfortunately there is not a Class III trailer hitch receiver that will replace the factory receiver on your 2003 Ford Explorer 4 Door as the factory trailer hitch receiver is really not designed to be removed since it is part of the rear bumper structure.

Instead the only option to add a Class III trailer hitch receiver to your Explorer is one that mounts under the factory hitch, of which I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13550 which offers a 5000lb towing capacity which gets bumped to 8000lbs when using a weight distribution system. Keep in mind that your Explorer may not be rated to tow this much, so you will want to check your owner's manual and use the lower rating between the vehicle and the trailer hitch receiver.

If you do not already have a ball mount for a 2" trailer hitch receiver you may be interested in the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900 which includes two ball mounts, two hitch balls, two hitch pins and clips and a carrying case.

I included videos for each of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C