Last Updated on April 20, 2025 by Jaxon Mike
Choosing the right Ford Explorer for towing can make your travel experience smooth and hassle-free. Not all Explorers are created equal when it comes to towing capabilities.
For those who need a vehicle with strong towing features, the Ford Explorer offers several options. The Gabriel 43171 Load Carrier Rear Towing Shock Absorbers provide excellent support for models from 1995 to 2001. These are ideal for added stability.
The Husky Towing Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver fits 17-18 Explorers and offers a 5000lbs towing capacity. The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver is another solid choice for earlier models from 2002 to 2005. Each option offers different capacities and compatibility, perfect for your specific needs. Choosing wisely ensures safety and efficiency while towing.
Gabriel 43171 Load Carrier Rear Towing Shock Absorbers
The Gabriel 43171 Load Carrier Rear Towing Shock Absorbers are designed for the 1995-2001 Ford Explorer, 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, and 1997-2001 Mercury Mountaineer. Ideal for vehicle owners who frequently tow trailers or carry heavy loads, these shock absorbers provide improved stability and control. If you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance while towing, these shock absorbers are an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Enhanced Towing Capability with integrated coil springs.
- Durable Construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Improved Vehicle Stability while carrying heavy loads.
- Easy Installation compatible with specific vehicle models.
Cons:
- Limited Compatibility with only select vehicle models.
- Heavier Weight may affect fuel efficiency slightly.
The Gabriel 43171 Load Carrier Rear Towing Shock Absorbers come equipped with coil springs that enhance the vehicle’s towing capability, providing extra support to handle heavy loads. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who frequently engage in towing activities, ensuring that their vehicle remains stable and controlled even under significant pressure.
Additionally, the durable construction of these shock absorbers ensures that they withstand the test of time, offering long-lasting performance. The black/red color adds a touch of style, while the easy installation process allows users to effortlessly upgrade their vehicle’s suspension system, making it a practical choice for those looking to boost their vehicle’s towing performance without hassle.
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Husky Towing 17-18 Ford Explorer
The Husky Towing 17-18 Ford Explorer is an excellent choice for Ford Explorer owners from the years 2017 and 2018 who are looking to enhance their vehicle’s towing capabilities. This product is ideal for those who frequently tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads, and need a reliable and durable towing solution.
Pros:
- High-Quality Construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Custom Fit for 2017-2018 Ford Explorer models.
- Easy Installation with all necessary hardware included.
Cons:
- Limited Compatibility as it is specifically designed only for 2017-2018 Ford Explorer models.
- Higher Price Point compared to some generic towing solutions.
The Husky Towing 17-18 Ford Explorer is built with high-quality materials that ensure durability and long-lasting performance. This makes it a dependable choice for users who need a towing solution that can withstand regular use and harsh conditions. The custom fit design means that it integrates seamlessly with your Ford Explorer, providing a secure and stable towing experience.
One of the standout features of this product is its easy installation process. The package includes all the necessary hardware, so you won’t need to purchase additional components. This convenience saves time and effort, making it a great choice for users who prefer a hassle-free installation. However, it’s important to note that the limited compatibility means it’s only suitable for specific Ford Explorer models, and it comes with a higher price point than some generic options.
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Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver
The Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver is ideal for those who own a Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Explorer (2002-2005), or Lincoln Aviator (2003-2005) and are looking for a reliable and robust towing solution. This product is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone who frequently hauls heavy loads or trailers.
Pros:
- High towing capacity of 5000lbs
- Compatible with multiple vehicle models
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- Limited compatibility to specific vehicle models
- Heavier weight compared to other hitch receivers
The Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver by HD Ridez is crafted with durability in mind. Its 5000lbs towing capacity makes it a great choice for those needing to tow heavy loads, whether it be for work or recreational purposes. The 2-inch receiver size is standard, ensuring it can accommodate a variety of hitch accessories and trailers.
One of the standout features of this hitch receiver is its compatibility with multiple vehicle models, including the Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Explorer (2002-2005), and Lincoln Aviator (2003-2005). This versatility ensures that many users can benefit from its robust construction. Additionally, the black color not only provides a sleek appearance but also offers corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity.
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Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver
The Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver is ideal for vehicle owners who frequently tow medium-sized trailers or equipment. It’s perfect for those who own a Ford Explorer from 2011 to 2017 or a Ford Police Interceptor Utility from 2013 to 2017 and require a reliable, heavy-duty towing solution. Whether you are hauling a small camper, a boat, or additional cargo, this hitch receiver provides the necessary strength and durability.
Pros:
- High towing capacity of 4000lbs ensures reliable performance for medium-duty towing needs.
- Rust-resistant finish provides enhanced durability and longevity.
- Compatible with specific models, ensuring a perfect fit and easy installation.
Cons:
- Limited to Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility models, reducing versatility for other vehicles.
- Requires professional installation for optimal safety and performance.
The Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver by HD Ridez is designed with a 2-inch receiver, making it compatible with a wide range of towing accessories and ensuring versatility for various towing applications. The black finish not only enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic but also contributes to its rust-resistant properties, crucial for long-term use in diverse weather conditions.
One of the standout features of this hitch receiver is its heavy-duty construction, which means users can confidently tow up to 4000lbs. This makes it ideal for medium-sized trailers, small boats, and other recreational equipment. The precise compatibility with specified Ford models ensures that users have a seamless installation experience, while the robust design guarantees consistent performance over time.
To buy this product, click here.
Aps Rear Towing Hitch Receiver
The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver is an excellent choice for vehicle owners who frequently need to tow trailers or other heavy items. It is specifically designed for those who own a Mercury Mountaineer (2002-2005), Ford Explorer (2002-2005), or Lincoln Aviator (2003-2005). If you are looking to enhance your vehicle’s towing capabilities with a reliable and durable hitch, this product is tailored for you.
Pros:
- Compatible with multiple vehicle models
- Class 3 rating for heavy-duty towing
- Durable black finish for long-lasting use
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- Limited to specific vehicle models
- Heavyweight may require assistance during installation
- Not suitable for vehicles outside the specified years
The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver stands out due to its robust construction and Class 3 rating, which ensures it can handle a substantial towing load. This makes it an ideal accessory for those who need to tow heavy items like trailers, boats, or campers. The black finish not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides resistance against corrosion, ensuring longevity even in harsh weather conditions.
Another notable feature is its easy installation process, which is a significant advantage for users who prefer a DIY approach. It is designed to fit seamlessly with the specified vehicle models, making it a convenient choice for those who want to enhance their vehicle’s functionality without a complex installation process. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the product’s weight and may require assistance during installation to ensure safety and accuracy. Overall, this hitch receiver is a valuable investment for enhancing your vehicle’s towing capabilities.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Shocks For Towing With A Ford Explorer?
Gabriel 43171 Load Carrier Rear Towing Shock Absorbers are excellent for towing. They are compatible with 1995-2001 Ford Explorer and 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. These shocks provide enhanced stability and handling. They feature coil springs for additional support. Ideal for those seeking improved towing performance.
Which Trailer Hitch Fits A 2002-2005 Ford Explorer?
The Husky Towing Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver is perfect for a 2002-2005 Ford Explorer. It offers a 2-inch receiver and a 5000lbs towing capacity. This hitch is also compatible with Mercury Mountaineer and Lincoln Aviator from the same years.
It’s rust-resistant, ensuring durability.
Can I Tow 5000lbs With A Ford Explorer?
Yes, with a Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver, you can tow up to 5000lbs with a Ford Explorer. The Husky Towing model is compatible with 2002-2005 models. Ensure your Explorer is equipped with the appropriate hitch and towing package for optimal performance and safety.
Is There A Hitch For 2011-2017 Ford Explorer?
Yes, there’s a Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver compatible with 2011-2017 Ford Explorer. It supports up to 4000lbs towing capacity. This hitch also fits Ford Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2017. It’s heavy-duty and rust-resistant for long-lasting durability. Perfect for towing needs.
Are There Towing Options For Mercury Mountaineer?
Yes, multiple towing options are available for the Mercury Mountaineer. Gabriel 43171 shock absorbers and APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver are compatible. Both products fit 2002-2005 models. These options enhance towing performance and stability, making them ideal for Mountaineer owners seeking reliable towing solutions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ford explorer for towing depends on various factors. Consider the towing capacity, compatibility, and durability of the hitch receiver. Gabriel load carrier rear towing shock absorbers are ideal for older ford explorers and mercury mountaineer models. They offer added stability and support for heavy loads.
Husky towing and aps rear towing hitch receivers provide excellent options for newer models. They are rust-resistant and come with varying towing capacities to suit different needs. Always check the specific requirements of your vehicle before purchasing. This ensures optimal performance and safety.
Whether you need to tow a trailer or carry heavy loads, selecting the right equipment is crucial. Invest in high-quality products to make towing easier and safer. With proper gear, your ford explorer can handle towing tasks efficiently. Make an informed choice and enjoy a hassle-free towing experience.
