Towing Capacity of 2011 Ford Explorer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Your dealer would be able to confirm if your Explorer is equipped with the tow package by running the VIN, the online VIN decoders I have access to aren't detailed enough to indicate whether your Explorer was equipped with the factory tow package.

In terms of the wiring for a brake controller or a trailer wiring harness like the part # C56278 you'd looked at, the vehicle should be prewired for both, so it doesn't matter whether or not you have the tow package for either to be a plug and play installation.

If your trailer has brakes, you will need to install a brake controller to actuate them. I'd recommend a remote mount brake controller like the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty, part # RED24FR. You'll also need the # RED87FR brake control harness. The main unit of the controller mounts under the dash, so its out of sight and you won't bang your knee on it when entering/leaving the vehicle. You'd control the trailer brakes using the control knob that can be mounted anywhere within the driver's reach.

As far as towing capacity goes, with a class III hitch like the # C13386 installed you'll be able to tow up to 5000 lbs. Ford recommends that a weight distribution system be used for trailers weighing more than 3500 lbs. If you'd care to reply and tell me the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer, I'd be happy to recommend a weight distribution system for you. I'll link to a help article that explains how to determine your trailer's tongue weight.

I've linked to some installation videos that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

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