2018 Ford Explorer Recommendation for Making Trailer Towing Better

Updated 03/13/2025 | Published 03/12/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs - Rear

(1187)

$122.94

Blue Ox TrackPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - 7-Hole Shank - 6K GTW, 600 lbs TW

(203)

$698.75

Question:

I have a 2018 Explorer Sport, and I tow a 4,000lb trailer. Tongue weight is close to 550lb. What shocks or rear suspension upgrades can I make to make towing better?

asked by: Adam

Expert Reply:

Hey Adam, thanks for reaching out!

The only rear suspension upgrade that fits your vehicle is the Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs # AL60821. This will help to offer more support for your 2018 Explorer and make your towing experience better.

I will say, if you aren't using a weight distribution hitch already then that will actually give you better control over your towing setup since it distributes the tongue weight of the trailer across all axles in the towing setup. If you don't have one already then, I recommend picking up the Blue Ox TrackPro # BLU36FR.

I've attached some review videos for you to check out on both of these products. Let me know if you have any other questions!

expert reply by: Jon G

Adam

3/12/2025

I do use a WDH already. What exactly will the helper springs contribute to this setup? Are the stock shocks the best choice as well?

Jon G.

3/13/2025

@Adam If you didn't have the WDH, then the springs would help to keep the back of your vehicle from bouncing as much and would help level everything out. Since you do have a WDH, I recommend making sure you have one that's rated properly if you don't think you're getting much benefit from it. When you ask about the stock shocks are you talking about getting a whole different suspension system? You can look into other suspension kits, but that's not something we carry so I'd recommend asking a suspension company what they think so they can better explain any benefits you might get that you don't already have with the WDH.