Ford 2011 Explorer Owner's Manual page 264

Engine/Passengers/Trailer Class
3.5L/6–passenger/Class I
3.5L/7–passenger/Class I
3.5L/6–passenger/Class III
3.5L/7–passenger/Class III
3.5L/6–passenger/Class I
3.5L/7–passenger/Class I
3.5L/6–passenger/Class III
3.5L/7–passenger/Class III
*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.
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.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.
Class III trailer hitch safety chain loops can be used as recovery hooks.
Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.
2011 Explorer (exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)
FWD vehicles
6870 (3116)
6880 (3121)
9910 (4495)
9920 (4500)
4WD vehicles
7040 (3193)
7060 (3202)
10076 (4570)
10096 (4579)
Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
2000 (907)
2000 (907)
5000 (2268)*
5000 (2268)*
2000 (907)
2000 (907)
5000 (2268)
5000 (2268)
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