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According to the manual and internet research its rated to tow up to 7100lbs with the 4.6L V8. Max towing of 5000lbs without weight distribution which means it should have a Class 3 Receiver on it. It only has the trailer tow prep package so that means they cheaped out at the factory and threw a Class 2 receiver on it. A Class 2 Receiver is only rated up to 3500lbs.
It's like my Sport Trac. A Class II hitch was standard and a Class III was optional. What looks like the hitch receiver frame is really the rear crossmember. I HAVE seen an Explorer or two with an aftermarket hitch that mounts below the factory unit but it hangs really low. The best option is to find a good welder who isn't afraid of liability and have him cut off the 1.25" receiver and weld on a 2" unit. The crossmember itself is no different.
I think I will look for the Class 3 factory hitch which mounts right below the Class 2 hitch I think maybe about 2 inches below the Class 2 receiver port. It doesn't hang down very far. Yes the aftermarket ones hang down about 8-10 inches, I don't want that, and it doesn't look very good either. The factory Class 3 receiver tucks up real nice into the bumper area like the Class 2 does. I'm leaving the Class 2 receiver there too, as I do have class 2 hitches so I can use either or. First time I've ever seen a vehicle where you can install both. Yeah its weird they welded the Class 2 receiver hitch though, usually they're bolted on.
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