I am probably going to get an Islander from someone at sometime. How do I know if I can pull it with my Explorer or not. I will also be getting my wife an Expedition soon.

What do I need to know in order to pull this boat?

eric,

You need to find out what the gross trailer weight of you boat is with all hardware and full of fuel. Then find out the towing capacity of your Explorer. You should be able to find this out in your owners manual. If not, call a Ford dealer for help.

I would take a serious look at the wheel base of the Explorer myself. Probably wouldn't be my first choice. If you are towing for VERY short distances you may be OK. We used to have a Chevy Blazer, I wouldn't have considered it with that. IMO

Keep in mind, you need to be able to stop more importantly then getting the boat moving. Any quick movement of the steering wheel to avoid something on that short wheel base could get ugly.

The Expedition would get my vote before the Explorer.


Good luck.

Buck
#183

Buck,

Thanks for the info. My storage unit is only 2 miles from the lake. So for those trips, I would guess the Explorer would work. I agree though, if we go to a different lake, should use something bigger.

I think about 45+ people viewed this thread and only got one reply. I guess everyone else is really strong and they carry their boats. Cool!!

212 islander you could pull with either fairly well. you shouldn't be very much over 3,000lbs 4,000lbs max so no worries mate

The Explorer will work for short trips. Make sure when you get the Expedition, get the 5.4 and not the 4.6 litre motor. I tow my 29' Fountain with a 2000 Expedition EB 4X4 just fine. I estimate to be around 7500-8000lbs with fuel and beer!! I'm probably pushing it a little, but it tows pretty good. Stopping is the hardest part.

Aggreed youll be fine for a little while and on short trips but at least on your next vehicle purchase go BIG!!!!
jrocket

I HAVE A 212 ISLANDER AND PULL IT WITH A FULL SIZE
GMC SERRIA 4X4 WITH NO PROBLEM.
HOPE YOU GET YOUR ISLANDER SOON!!!!!!!!!!!

I towed my 24 Baja for one full season with an extended cab 4x4 Chevy S10. Going was easy, pretty long wheel base on those trucks. Stopping was the issue. Got pushed thru more than one intersection when the roads were wet. BE CAREFUL towing with the Explorer and you will be fine. Do NOT speed, plan ahead, and watch for yellow lights!!

If your Explorer is a V8 you will have no problems. Even if it is a V6 it will pull it okay but your 0 to 60 won't win any awards.

Roby

just be sure the trailer has brakes on it and you should be fine.