Thinking about towing with a 2021 Limited 2.3L… good idea?

Seeking Help
1

Hey everyone, I’ve got a 2021 Limited 2.3L RWD without the factory tow package. I added a Curt tow hitch and trailer wiring kit from Etrailer. I’ve done short trips towing my pop-up camper (around 1800-2000lbs), and gas usage wasn’t bad. Now, I’m planning a cross-country trip, about 2400 miles, and I’m wondering if this is pushing the Explorer too hard.

I’ve read the tow capacity is 3000lbs—can anyone confirm that? Also, there’s some debate about using 91 vs 87 fuel, with people saying 91 gives better performance and mileage. What do you guys think? Anyone else done long trips towing with this setup?

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Yep, your tow limit is 3000lbs without the factory tow package. For fuel, stick with whatever Ford recommends for your engine.

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Tyson said:
Yep, your tow limit is 3000lbs without the factory tow package. For fuel, stick with whatever Ford recommends for your engine.

Ford recommends 91 when towing or hauling heavy loads. This would count as one of those cases.

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Tyson said:
Yep, your tow limit is 3000lbs without the factory tow package. For fuel, stick with whatever Ford recommends for your engine.

Thanks! Do you think towing this far would be too hard on the Explorer? I’m taking the southern route from San Diego to Cleveland.

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@Uma
You should be fine. I’d recommend getting an oil change before your trip. If your mileage is high, think about getting the transmission serviced too.

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Tyson said:
@Uma
You should be fine. I’d recommend getting an oil change before your trip. If your mileage is high, think about getting the transmission serviced too.

I was already planning on an oil change before and after the trip. I’ll add a transmission flush to the list after I’m done.

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Just my two cents—I’ve been a professional driver for years. I always use mid-range gas, and it’s worked well for me. My last car, a Mercedes wagon, made it to 500k miles before the rest of the car wore out. For long trips, I recommend Chevron with Techron—it’s like adding a free bottle of injector cleaner. Plus, their app sometimes gets you nice discounts. I’ve gotten mid-grade for $1.99 per gallon before. Might be worth considering.

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As long as you stay under 3000lbs and keep your tongue weight below 500lbs, you’ll be fine. Just take it easy on hills and don’t push the engine too hard.

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Isn’t it an issue towing max load for long distances in overdrive? On older Explorers, the manual said not to tow in overdrive. What do you think?

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Frost said:
Isn’t it an issue towing max load for long distances in overdrive? On older Explorers, the manual said not to tow in overdrive. What do you think?

That’s exactly what I’m worried about, to be honest.

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With the factory tow package, trucks get extra coolers for oil, transmission fluid, and power steering. Your Explorer might have some of these features, but I’m not sure. You can check the user manual on Ford’s website for towing details.

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@Frost
It doesn’t have those features—that’s why the limit is capped at 3000lbs.

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Good to know, thanks! My ‘09 Explorer has the tow package and a 5000lb rating (V6).

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Your Explorer will handle that trailer like it’s not even there. I had a 2020 Limited 2.3L, and I once towed a 4500lb camper just to test it out—it was no problem. I also towed my 4-seat RZR, about 3500lbs with the trailer, and it was easy. A pop-up camper won’t be an issue.