New expedition owner question

[ndiehm]

I just picked up an ‘06 EB with 130K miles on it and I know this question has been asked 1000 times, but I keep seeing different answers or it’s not a definitive answer. So how much can I tow? I’ve check ford Etis and looked all over the truck. Here’s what I have: 4-pin connector, 8 fin trans. cooler, 3.73 axle (H6 code on sticker). I also have the plug under the dash for a brake controller. Not sure if that is a standard feature or not. I thought with the H6 the truck was rated to tow 8900 lbs. but have read some other things that contradict that.

Also, there seems to be a second type of cooler located on the right side of the radiator. What is that for?

Thanks for the help!

 

[Flexpedition]

https://www.fleet.ford.com/resources/ford/general/pdf/towingguides/2006RVguideApr08.pdf

Pages 14 and 20 apply:

6000 pounds for you since you do not have the optional "536" heavy duty tow package, based on your own description. Regardless of 3.73
If you had the 536 tow package, those numbers would be 8900 pounds for 2WD, 8600 for 4x4.

Terms like "upto" and "when equipped" often get overlooked and are always in the fine print.

We are talking factory ratings. Your truck is rated to tow 6K but it is certainly capable of more. Its capable of more than 8900.

There is a small power steering fluid rad - believe its mounted horizontally.

 

[ndiehm]

Thanks for that info. So what would It need to be considered "equipped"? Is it a different hitch class? Ford Etis says Trailer Tow Prep Pack. What is that?

 

[JoeD]

https://www.reese-hitches.com/learning_center/general-towing-classes

good general info

 

[JoeD]

The brake controller plug is either standard or is included in the tow package, its nice to have it, as controller manufacturers make the appropriate pigtails for your vehicle. If your towing, or plan on, some weight definitely get one. I love the tekonsha brand specifically the prodigy.

 

[Flexpedition]

Trailer tow prep is the harness they toss into the spare tire well that you connect to your above mentioned aftermarket controller.

All have the same Class IV hitch. To be "equipped", the HD tow packing includes the 7 pin connector at the rear and its related wiring, fuses, and relays, the stock transmission cooler is upgraded from 7 to 11 plates, and the super cooling radiator is one row thicker for a higher fluid capacity. Although you already have the 3.73 gears, I'll mention for anybody reading who has 3.31 they are limited to 6K, according to Ford.

Ford ETIS site gets recommended here a lot, but I find it to be confusing and easily misleading, which makes one question its reliability. For instance, my Fusion, and every Fusion VIN I enter, comes back as a Transit Connect without the commercial shelving package. First gen Expeditions show up as CMAX hybrids. Go figure.

 

[ndiehm]

Perfect. That's exactly what I was looking for. Now to change out the trans cooler and radiator. Not that I tow more than 5000lbs often, but sometimes I have to and glad to know I can. Thank you all for the info.