Ford 2002 Explorer Manual page 108

Driving
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% of
the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over
1588 kg (3500 lb).
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. Do
not attach safety chains to the bumper.
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's
specifications.
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough
braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.
The braking system of the towing vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
Trailer lamps
Make sure your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations.
See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and
equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.
Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle's taillamp
circuits, because it may damage the electrical system resulting in
fire. Contact your local Ford dealership for assistance in proper trailer
tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be
required.
Using a step bumper
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and requires only a
ball with a 19 mm (3/4 inch) shank diameter. The bumper has a 1,590 kg
(3,500 lb.) trailer weight and 159 kg (350 lb.) tongue weight capability.
Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over 1,590 kg
(3,500 lb).
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