Towing that far I would stick with the V8. Just because the rating is
5400 doesn't mean it will be fun, especially on the hills. Good rule of
thumb is 80% of the two rating, which brings it down to around 4300 pounds.

Towed a Coleman camper with a Dodge van and the 318 across country...the
minimum I would ever use for towing would be a V8.

Larry

Harry Krause wrote:

Alan wrote:


Does anyone out there tow with a 4.0L Ford? I'd appreciate your
thoughts on this engine?

My 1997 Merc. Mountaineer (Ford Explorer twin) is approaching 150K
miles and it's starting to cost me money. Nothing big but it's an
excuse to consider replacing the truck. I frequently tow my boat 400
miles to a lake in VA, often coming home on Sunday afternoons. A
breakdown along I81 would be a real mess so It's probably time to get
something newer. The truck has a 5.0L V8 and has done a great job
towing my rig (about 4000# incl. trailer)

I'm thinking of an Explorer (2002 or newer). The problem is that most
come with the V6, Finding one with the 4.6L V8 is pretty tough. The
Explorer with a V6 and 3.73 gears is rated at 5400# so it should do
the job, but I'm accustomed to the V8 and a bit leery of the smaller
engine.

What say you? Do you think the 4.0L will pull the boat OK?

Thanks

Alan Hannas




If no more than 4000 pounds, you'll be fine, even going uphills. If
closer to your truck's tow limit, you'll struggle. Make sure you have an
oil and transmission cooloer on the Explorer.