towing with ford explorer

[glparcher]

Hi,
I am new to this forum and open to advice.  I have purchased a 99 ford explorer (4L SOHC 2WD) and it doesn't have a towing package.  It doesn't sound like it will be too expensive to add a transmission cooler and hitch if I want to.  I have never owned a pop up (always been a tent camper) but would consider purchasing a smaller model used if the explorer can handle it.  Any advice would be appreciated on both the explorer and what to look for with in a used pop up.  Thanks.

[Azusateach]

I have an Explorer, but it came with a Class II tow package.  No transmission cooler, and I was able to pull my PUP just fine.  Upgraded my "toy" to a Shamrock 19, and the only thing I did was upgrade my hitch to a Class III.  Of course, I use a weight distribution hitch & sway control now, but my 2003 car does just fine.  Don't think I'll try climbing any big hills, but I'm headed to northern California this summer!  I think you'll be fine, as long as your transmission's in good working order & you get the right hitch.

[zamboni]

I had an old 1994 Explorer Sport (manual, so like 2500 tow capacity - frustrating when the auto tranny was 5000).  It towed my 10' Starcraft PUP without any issue... but that was a lightweight camper.

We upgraded to the V8 before we moved up to the Niagara (and now a hybrid), so I can't speak to towing a heavier camper.

However, on the RV.net "Open Roads Forum" (a shared forum with Trailer Life and about a half-dozen other sites - the same forum is accessible from all the member sites), there was a fellow with the V6 Explorer who towed a Rockwood Roo without any problems, and under capacity.

[batsignal2]

Hi,
 I am new to this forum and open to advice.  I have purchased a 99 ford explorer (4L SOHC 2WD) and it doesn't have a towing package.  It doesn't sound like it will be too expensive to add a transmission cooler and hitch if I want to.  I have never owned a pop up (always been a tent camper) but would consider purchasing a smaller model used if the explorer can handle it.  Any advice would be appreciated on both the explorer and what to look for with in a used pop up.  Thanks.

I have an explorer, here is a webpage I visit regularly:

http://www.explorerforum.com/

The moderators are great and you can find out almost anything Explorer related.


Here is what they have for your vehicle:

http://www.explorerforum.com/ntrprize/spec1999.htm


If you do a search here, you will find out all sorts of information on Gross Vehicle Weights (GVW), tow ratings, etc to see how to calculate what you can actual tow with your vehicle.

I have a tranny cooler and I would definitely recommend it.  I think you are making the correct decision should you choose to purchase a pop-up.