Can I tow a 30 ft Dutchmen Travel Trailer with a 2003 Ford Explorer  

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Expert Reply:

To determine if you can tow your 30 ft Dutchmen travel trailer with your 2003 Ford Explorer, you will want to find the towing capacity of your Explorer and compare that to the loaded and ready to tow weight of your trailer.

I did some research on your Explorer and found that the Explorer will have different maximum tow ratings depending on how it is equipped.

For 2WD models, if you have the 4.0L SOHC engine without a tow package, then the maximum towing capacity of your Explorer is 3,500 lbs. If you do have the tow package with that same engine, then your maximum towing capacity is 5,820 lbs. If you have the 4.6L engine, then your maximum towing capacity is 7,180 lbs.

For 4WD models, the towing capacity is the same for the 4.0L SOHC engine without the tow package, but if you do have a tow package, then the maximum towing capacity is 5,380 lbs. The maximum towing capacity for the 4.6L engine is 6,980 lbs.

Ford also states that a weight distribution system, such as the Reese system, # RP66022, that you referenced, is required when towing more than 3,500 lbs.

The towing capacity for your specific Explorer should be listed in your owners manual or a local Ford dealer can tell you that information if you give them your VIN. If the loaded and ready to tow weight of your Dutchmen travel trailer exceeds the towing capacity of your Explorer, I do not recommend towing the trailer with that vehicle.

If your trailer is near the maximum towing capacity of your Explorer, then I also recommend adding a supplemental transmission cooler like the Derale Series 8000 Transmission Cooler, # D13503. Towing at your maximum capacity will cause your transmission fluid to heat up and one of the leading causes for transmission failure is overheating. If you intend to add a transmission cooler, you will also want the Ford Radiator Adapter Fitting, # D13025, so you do not have to cut your transmission lines.

If you also determine that you need a weight distribution system, you will want to choose a weight distribution system based on the loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. I have attached two FAQ articles on weight distribution and tongue weight for you to look over as well as a link to all of our weight distribution systems. If you would like a specific recommendation, let me know the loaded tongue weight of your trailer and I can make a specific recommendation.

expert reply by: John H

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