Hitch Replacement Solution for 2004 Ford Explorer with OEM Hitch

Updated 09/10/2025 | Published 08/30/2025

Question:

I have a 2004 Ford Explorer and want a class three hitch. My factory hitch is rusted and removed. What do you have that bolts in place of the factory one and doesnt hang below it

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

Hey Ed, I wish we carried a solution that would work for you but at this time we do not have any hitches that fit your 2004 Ford Explorer as everything we carry is designed to fit below an installed OEM hitch. Since yours is gone you'd want to check with a Ford dealer to see if you can get an OEM replacement.

expert reply by: Jameson C

9/2/2025

well the original was a 1 inch tube and I wonder if they even make a 2 inch. I'm not happy that it has to hang so low. That is my concern

Jameson C.

9/2/2025

@Ed Yeah that makes sense. I wish there was a 2 inch option that wasn't going to reduce your ground clearance.

9/9/2025

@JamesonC I've been forded should have bought a Tahoe

Jameson C.

9/9/2025

@Ed It can happen to the best of us!

9/9/2025

Thanks for the assist. Too bad they had to provide something from the factory that hides under the rear bumper and just rusts to death - leaving a mess for the owner. Should have bought a Tahoe

Jameson C.

9/9/2025

@Ed As someone who owns a Tahoe I can kind of agree. The factory hitch has been really solid for me.

9/10/2025

@JamesonC what I want to know is who would have taken original ownership of a big v8 Ford with a 1 inch receiver. Guess you use tie wraps for safety chains. That should have been a recall they apparently rust often. . I would have NEVER taken ownership of that if I'd purchased it brand new!