QuestionI have a 2005 Explorer Sport Trac which has a 5,300 Pound towing capacity.
It does not have a hitch on it right now. I did just purchase and I am awaiting delivery of a Class III hitch with a GTW (I am assuming this means Gross Towing Weight) of 5,000 pounds and a Tongue Weight of 500. The specs also read it has WDGTW of 6,000 and a WDTW of 600 (But I am not sure what is meant for them 2)
I mainly bought the hitch for now for a small cargo rack I have and a bike rack (small stuff)
My main question is.... how much could I possible tow with this in the future if I decide to get a boat? I looked around on ebay quite a bit today at boats and I could not find one auction that mentioned the weight of the boat and trailer being sold.
I dont plan on buying anything large (Maybe something between 18-21 feet)
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
AnswerWhat you really need to know is the specs and options of your vehicle. Manufactures will list or claim the vehicle can tow "X" amount when properly equipped. That is the key phrase "when properly equipped".
Without getting into too much detail about vehicle weight, GVW, GAWR & GCWR got to http://www.etrailer.com/faq_trailertowtips.aspx and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gross_vehicle_weight_rating for more information. Also you need to know the options such as axle ratio's, oil and trans. coolers, engine and transmission package, etc. to fine tune the safe tow rating of your vehicle. It's really not that confusing when you have all the information.
I also found this link also http://www.ford-trucks.com/specs/2005/2005_sporttrac.html
