FORD 2003 Explorer v.2 - Manual (Page 174)

• Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km
(500 miles).
• Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
Do not exceed the maximum loads listed on the Safety Compliance
Certification label. For load specification terms found on the label, refer
to Vehicle loading in this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue
load of your loaded vehicle when figuring the total weight.
Your vehicle is equipped with a standard Class II integrated hitch and
requires only a draw bar and ball with a 19 mm (3/4 inch) shank
diameter. An optional Class III/Class IV hitch is also available.
Note: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
certification label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer
weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in
engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
4x2 w/automatic transmission
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weight
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR-kg (lbs.) Trailer weight
range-kg (lbs.)
(0-Maximum)
4.0L SOHC/4.6L* 3.55 3493 (7700) 0-1497 (0-3300)
4.0L SOHC 3.73 LS 3493 (7700) 0–1588 (0-3500)
4.0L SOHC
w/Class III Hitch 3.73 LS 4645 (10240) 0-2640 (0-5820)
4.6L* 3.73/3.73 LS 5262 (11600) 0-3257 (0-7180)
Notes: - For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1000 ft) elevation. For definitions of terms used in this table and
instructions on how to calculate your vehicle load, refer to Vehicle loading
in this chapter. Maximum trailer weights shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle and the loaded trailer must not exceed the GCWR.
*-When towing maximum loads under high outside temperatures and on
steep grades, the A/C system may cycle on and off to protect the engine
from overheating. This may result in a temporary increase of interior
temperatures.
Towing a trailer over 1588 kg (3500 lbs.) requires a weight distributing hitch.
Driving
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