Table of Contents:
- Unlocking Potential: The Basics of Towing
- Exploring the 2017 Ford Explorer's Towing Capabilities
- Smart Solutions for Optimizing Towing Performance
- Maximizing Fuel Efficiency While Towing
- Cast a Wide Net: Town Your Trailer Responsibly
Unlocking Potential: The Basics of Towing
For outdoorsy adventurers, few vehicles offer the same kind of potential offered by the 2017 Ford Explorer. Navigating the world of towing capacity can be a bit of a challenge, but the Ford Explorer's power, torque, and numerous built-in features make it a supremely versatile vehicle. Learning about the towing capacity of any car or SUV is key information for planning your next camping or weekend warrior outing. With capacity to tow up to 5000 lbs with heavy duty axle and tow prep package, the 2017 Ford Explorer allows for endless possibilities for intrepid adventurers.
Modern 4x4s like the new Ford Explorer are no longer just about getting from point A to B. For passionate campers, boaters, and trailer owners, towing is a key part of the fun. It's important to understand the capabilities of your vehicle in order to make the most of your towing experience. Whether you're looking to haul a camping trailer or a 5th wheel, the Ford Explorer has the sophisticated technology to make it happen.
Meanwhile, shopping for a trailer or camper for the first time can be daunting. With a little bit of research, you can learn about the differences between various towing models and capabilities. Once you've determined the trailer weight, tongue weight, and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), you can begin the process of calculating your towing capacity. Make sure you factor in the weight of your passengers and gear for maximum towing accuracy.
The right towing capacity also depends largely on your vehicle and its specific set of capabilities, and this is where the 2017 Ford Explorer comes in. Whether you have a trailer in tow or some other kind of recreational vehicle, you'll need to know the towing and powertrain capacities to ensure the safety of your passengers and fellow drivers.
For towable vehicles like the 2017 Explorer, having the right towing package and accessories can make all the difference. From heavy duty axles to custom towing mirrors, the Explorer can be tailored to your own specifications for personalized towing satisfaction. From basic to experience-ready, the right components should be chosen for a safe and successful towing adventure.
Exploring the 2017 Ford Explorer's Towing Capabilities
The 2017 Ford Explorer comes with a standard 3.5L EcoBoost–capable of up to 365hp and 420lb-ft torque. There's no substitute for power, but thanks to the Explorer's smart technologies, these impressive specs don't have to come at the expense of fuel economy. In fact, the Explorer takes on towing with its special “Intelligent 4WD” system, allowing for greater efficiency, traction, and control.
Safety is a key consideration for any vehicle outfitted for towing, and the 2017 Ford Explorer does not disappoint. With roll-stabilization technology, the Explorer looks to reduce the risks associated with heavy payloads. Add in features like trailer sway control and the Explorer's intelligent control system actively fights back against potential dangers–helping you keep your load secure during your travels. Customizable brake and suspension settings also help you fine-tune your driving experience for a secure journey.
Towing capability isn't just a function of power and design components–it also comes down to accessories. With an optional trailer tow package, the 2017 Ford Explorer allows you to customize your towing experience–from increased power and trailer sway control to heavy-duty cabin reinforcements and trailer wiring harnesses. You can even add four-pin connectors and seven-pin connectors for more comprehensive connectively with your trailer.
The available 2.0L EcoBoost generates up to 245 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. It's ideal for smaller sedan and SUV towing–providing an extra boost of power without compromising fuel efficiency. With standard Class II and optional Class III maximum trailer þ Tow packages, the 2.0L allows you to safely tow trailers of various sizes and weights.
Finally, the Ford Explorer's various powertrain components also ensure convenience. Automatic trailer-level-control and a standard trailer brake controller provide easy operation whether you're towing a boat, trailer, or camper. If you're looking for a powerful towing experience, the 2017 Ford Explorer delivers–in style.
Smart Solutions for Optimizing Towing Performance
If you're looking to get the most out of your 2017 Ford Explorer, it's important to understand the nuances of towing performance.
Before you set out for your next adventure, it's important to take care of some basic towing maintenance. From making sure you've got fresh oil and coolant to checking your fuel lines and brakes, taking the time to properly prep your vehicle for towing is essential.
When it comes to towing, the right accessories can make a huge difference to your peace of mind. From trailer brake controllers to tow bars and receivers, your 2017 Ford Explorer should always be properly fitted for towing. Even the proper hitch selection can have a huge impact on your towing performance and security.
As for driving, there are some basics to keep in mind. When you're towing a large load, even the most minor details can add up. On the highway, making sure to use lower gears can help your engine avoid overworking and give your towing brakes a much-needed break. Additionally, taking advantage of cruise control helps you keep your speeds steady and helps maintain a consistent speed on the highway.
Finally, taking regular breaks from driving is important for ensuring safety. When driving long distances, especially with heavy loads, it's important to pull over occasionally to rest and let your tires cool down. And even when you're taking it slow, catch yourself every so often to make sure you're keeping alert. From pre-trip checklists to staying mindful of safety, prep your Ford Explorer to make sure your camping trips are well planned and free of stress.
Maximizing Fuel Efficiency While Towing
Mileage is always top of mind for drivers, but when you're factoring in a trailer's extra weight, fuel efficiency can become a major concern. Thanks to the Explorer's extra power and torque, however, you'll be able to tow smarter and more fuel-efficiently. Here are some tips that will help you save fuel while towing:
- Make sure your trailer tires are properly inflated: Good tire pressure is one of the keys to fuel efficiency, and the same goes for trailer towing. Low tire pressure equals decreased stability and worse fuel economy.
- Stay on top of your oil: Fresh oil in your engine is key for maximum performance and fuel economy. Changing your oil regularly will help your engine resist wear and tear.
- Check your aerodynamics: While the Explorer already has a sleek, aerodynamic look, it's important to make sure that all your towing components are also designed to reduce drag. From optimized aerodynamics on your load to air dams and trailer spoilers, your vehicle and trailer design should be as optimized as possible.
- Lighten the load: If you're planning a weekend trip or getaway, it's always a good idea to lighten your load. From leaving heavy items behind to distributing the weight of your cargo, lighter loads mean better fuel economy.
- Optimize your engine: Taking the time to fine-tune your engine settings for efficiency can make a huge difference in your fuel economy. From electronic transmission adjustments to advanced programming, there are lots of ways to get the most out of your fuel economy.
Cast a Wide Net: Town Your Trailer Responsibly
No matter how powerful your engine or how optimized your components, it all comes down to safe and responsible driving. Before you get on the road, it's important to know the limits of your towing vehicle. And regardless of what kind of towable you are towing, an experienced tow-driver should never take unnecessary risks.
From staying within legal limits to always double-checking your load, it's important to remember that towing safely starts with the knowledge of your own capabilities–and the capabilities of your vehicle. Taking the time to double check your load, taking routes with fewer hills, and driving with patience and understanding are all key to safe and successful towing. Being conscious of your safety, and the safety of others, should always be your top priority.
That said, there are some strategies you can use to make towing a more pleasant experience. Gear for the terrain you'll be traveling on can help maximize fuel efficiency and maintain a smoother ride. Keeping an eye on your vehicle's voltage can also help avoid damage to your powertrain and avoid disruption to your trailer electronics. And knowing how to choose the right hitch can be a real game-changer to your towing performance. Add in some proper vamping gear, and your 2017 Ford Explorer is ready for the road.
