2011 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 260

Tires, Wheels and Loading Engine/Passengers/Trailer Class Maximum Maximum GCWR - lb Trailer Weight (kg) - lb (kg) FWD vehicles 3.5L/6-passenger/Class I 6870 (3116) 2000 (907) 3.5L/7-passenger/Class I 6880 (3121) 2000 (907) 3.5L/6-passenger/Class III 9910 (4495) 5000 (2268)* 3.5L/7-passenger/Class III 9920 (4500) 5000 (2268)* 4WD vehicles 3.5L/6-passenger/Class I 7050 (3199) 2000 (907) 3.5L/7-passenger/Class I 7060 (3202) 2000 (907) 3.5L/6-passenger/Class III 10125 (4594) 5000 (2268) 3.5L/7-passenger/Class III 10125 (4594) 5000 (2268) *For towing trailers up to 3500 lb (1588 kg), use a weight-carrying hitch and ball which uniformly spreads the trailer tongue loads through the vehicle's underbody structure. For towing trailers over 3500 lb (1588 kg), up to 5000 lb (2268 kg), it is recommended to use a weight-distributing hitch to increase front axle load while towing. Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer or a reliable trailer dealer as soon as possible if you require assistance. Hitches Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper; use a load-carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10-15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue, not to exceed the maximum tongue load of 500 lb (227 kg) on a Class III receiver. Weight-distributing hitch When hooking-up a trailer using a weight-distributing hitch, always use the following procedure: 1. Park the vehicle (without the trailer) on a level surface. 2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender, this is H1. 3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distributing bars connected. 260 2011 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide, 4th Printing USA (fus)