Recommended Hitch and Wiring Harness for a 2021 Ford Explorer

Published 10/15/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(106)

$220.23

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

(61)

$60.60

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches - 2" Ball - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 7.5K

(784)

$79.94

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

(3399)

$104.73

Question:

I have a 2021 Ford Explorer without a tow package. I am looking for a hitch that can haul a 5,000 lbs double axle trailer. I would also like to use a brake controller.

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help you set up your 2021 Ford Explorer for towing. You're going to need a receiver hitch, wiring harness, brake controller, and ball mount kit.

For a receiver hitch I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item # CU78FR. This is a custom fit hitch that will attach to your Explorer's frame with no drilling. It is a class III receiver hitch with a maximum gross trailer weight of 6,000 lbs and a maximum tongue weight of 900 lbs.

For a wiring harness you are going to need two separate parts that work together to give you all the functions you will need to not only control your trailer's light functions but also the braking system. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector item # 118599. This wiring harness connects to existing wiring in the rear of your Explorer and does not require cutting, splicing, or tapping. This will provide you with control over your trailers lighting functions; brake, turn signal, and running lights.

The second harness you will need is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your vehicle with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it. You will then connect one wire to the blue wire on the brake controller and then connect one wire to the positive post on the vehicle's battery via the included 40-amp circuit breaker. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's reverse lights. I have linked a picture detailing and identifying the functions of each of the wires you will need to connect. I have also included a diagram to show you how these 2 wiring harness will be connected to your 2021 Ford Explorer and Boat trailer.

To round out your towing setup I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" Ball, a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop, and is rated for up to 7,500 lbs. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.