2017 Ford Explorer 3.5 L V6 Towing Capacity

The 2017 Ford Explorer is a popular SUV known for its versatility, offering a balance of passenger space, cargo capacity, and, crucially, towing capability. For owners considering using their Explorer to haul trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment, understanding its towing capacity is paramount. This article dives deep into the towing capacity of the 2017 Ford Explorer equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, explaining the factors that influence it and offering practical advice for safe and effective towing.

Understanding Towing Capacity

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow, as specified by the manufacturer. It's a critical figure, dictated by several factors, including the engine's power output, the transmission's ability to handle stress, the strength of the vehicle's frame, the braking system's effectiveness, and the cooling system's capacity to manage heat generated during towing. Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to serious consequences, from damaging the vehicle's mechanical components to causing accidents.

For the 2017 Ford Explorer with the 3.5L V6, the maximum towing capacity is typically around 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. However, this number can vary slightly depending on the specific configuration of the vehicle, including drivetrain (FWD or AWD) and the presence of the factory-installed towing package.

Think of it like this: a similar SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, offers varying towing capacities depending on the engine chosen. The base V6 models often have a lower tow rating, while models with the larger V8 engine offer significantly more towing muscle. The same principle applies to the Explorer; while the 3.5L V6 is capable, ensuring your specific model is properly equipped is vital.

Key Factors Affecting Towing Capacity

Several factors contribute to the overall towing capacity. Let's break them down:

Engine Power and Torque: The 3.5L V6 engine provides a solid foundation for towing. Power (measured in horsepower) determines the vehicle's ability to accelerate while towing, while torque (measured in pound-feet) is the twisting force that helps the vehicle overcome inertia and maintain speed, especially uphill. More torque at lower RPMs is ideal for towing.
Transmission: The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Towing places significant strain on the transmission, potentially leading to overheating and premature wear. The 2017 Explorer utilizes a robust transmission designed to handle typical SUV duties, but continuous heavy towing requires additional cooling measures.
Frame Strength: The vehicle's frame is the backbone that supports the entire structure, including the load being towed. A strong, rigid frame is essential for stability and control, preventing excessive flexing and swaying. The Explorer utilizes a unibody construction, which offers a good balance of weight and strength, but is not as inherently strong as a body-on-frame design found in trucks like the Ford F-150.
Braking System: The braking system must be capable of safely stopping the vehicle and the trailer, even under heavy loads. Upgraded brakes, such as larger rotors and calipers, or the use of a trailer brake controller, can significantly improve stopping performance.
Cooling System: Towing generates a significant amount of heat in the engine and transmission. An adequate cooling system is essential for preventing overheating, which can cause serious engine damage. The factory towing package often includes an upgraded radiator and transmission cooler.
Towing Package: The factory-installed towing package typically includes several essential components that enhance towing performance and safety. These may include a trailer hitch receiver, wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes, an upgraded engine cooling system, and a heavy-duty transmission cooler. Having the factory towing package is crucial for achieving the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Essential Towing Terminology

Before you start towing, it's important to understand some key terms:

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): The maximum permissible weight of the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel.
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum permissible weight of the vehicle and the trailer combined, including all passengers, cargo, and fuel. This is the most important number to pay attention to when towing.
Tongue Weight: The amount of weight that the trailer exerts on the trailer hitch. Typically, tongue weight should be 10-15% of the trailer's total weight. Too little or too much tongue weight can lead to trailer sway and loss of control.
Payload Capacity: The maximum weight the vehicle can carry in the passenger compartment and cargo area, including passengers, luggage, and any other accessories. This number is often overlooked but is critical. Remember, anything you add to the Explorer reduces the amount it can safely tow.

You can find these values on a sticker typically located on the driver's side doorjamb. Consult your owner's manual for more detailed information.

Calculating Your Safe Towing Weight

Determining the safe towing weight for your specific 2017 Ford Explorer involves a little math:

Find your Explorer's GCWR: This value is listed in your owner's manual or on the doorjamb sticker.
Determine your Explorer's actual weight (GVW): This includes the weight of the vehicle itself, all passengers, cargo, and a full tank of fuel. You can weigh your vehicle at a truck stop or weigh station.
Subtract your Explorer's actual weight (GVW) from the GCWR: The result is the maximum weight you can safely tow.
Example:
GCWR = 12,000 lbs
Actual GVW = 6,000 lbs
Maximum Towing Weight = 12,000 lbs - 6,000 lbs = 6,000 lbs

Remember to always err on the side of caution and never exceed the manufacturer's recommended limits.

Tips for Safe Towing

Even with a properly equipped vehicle and a calculated towing weight, safe towing requires careful planning and execution:

Use a weight-distributing hitch: For heavier loads, a weight-distributing hitch helps to distribute the trailer's weight more evenly across the vehicle's axles, improving stability and control. This is especially important for longer trailers.
Maintain proper tire pressure: Check the tire pressure on both your vehicle and the trailer before each trip. Proper inflation ensures optimal handling and prevents tire blowouts.
Drive defensively: Increase your following distance, anticipate traffic changes, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Remember that towing significantly increases your stopping distance.
Check your mirrors frequently: Ensure you have a clear view of the trailer and surrounding traffic. Consider using towing mirrors to extend your field of vision.
Practice backing up: Backing up with a trailer can be challenging. Practice in a safe, open area before attempting to back into a tight space.
Inspect your equipment regularly: Before each trip, inspect the trailer hitch, safety chains, lights, and brakes. Address any issues promptly.
Consider a trailer brake controller: Electric trailer brakes, controlled by a trailer brake controller in your Explorer, provide significantly improved stopping power, especially for heavier trailers. These are often required by law for trailers exceeding a certain weight.
Reduce Speed: Towing at high speeds puts undue stress on your vehicle and trailer. Lower your speed and drive smoothly.

Important Safety Reminder: Always consult your 2017 Ford Explorer owner's manual for specific towing recommendations and safety guidelines. This article provides general information and should not be substituted for professional advice.

Practical Takeaways

Verify your Explorer's specific towing capacity: Check your owner's manual and doorjamb sticker for the correct GCWR and maximum towing capacity for your specific model and configuration.
Ensure your Explorer is properly equipped: The factory towing package is essential for achieving the maximum towing capacity.
Calculate your safe towing weight: Account for the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and the trailer. Never exceed the GCWR.
Invest in essential towing equipment: A weight-distributing hitch, trailer brake controller, and towing mirrors can significantly improve safety and handling.
Practice safe towing techniques: Drive defensively, maintain proper tire pressure, and inspect your equipment regularly.
Consider professional guidance: If you're unsure about any aspect of towing, consult with a qualified mechanic or towing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped and prepared for towing. Think of it like prepping a classic car for a long road trip; you want expert eyes to ensure everything is sound.

By understanding the towing capacity of your 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 and following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy safe and successful towing experiences for years to come.