Is it safe?

[Alamoman]

I know tow vehicle is a passionate subject with many Oliver owners.  

My specific question is as follows.  I have a Ford Expedition Max (4x4) with a payload of 1,325lbs and the heavy duty towing package rated at 9,300lbs, which is further specified per the list below.  I understand payload is the limiting factor due to tongue and cargo weight.  It will only be my wife and I traveling.  And yes, I would prefer an F250; however, this is my vehicle for the time being.  

1.  Will it safely tow an Oliver?

Ford Towing Package:

•  Class IV hitch receiver with higher tongue weight rating (supports heavier trailers than standard Class III).
•  Integrated trailer brake controller (in-cabin electronic control for trailer brakes).
•  Heavy-duty transmission oil cooler and upgraded radiator/cooling system for sustained towing without overheating.
•  Optimized axle ratio (typically 3.73) for improved torque and towing performance.
•  Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 (steering knob for precise trailer reversing).
•  360° camera system with dedicated trailer views and guidance lines.
•  Trailer Sway Control (electronic stability system intervention).
•  Pro Trailer Hitch Assist (automated hitch alignment with steering/braking assistance).
•  Tow/Haul mode with adaptive shift programming for better hill handling and engine braking.
•  Extended blind-spot monitoring that accounts for trailer length.
•  Supporting wiring harness and other cooling enhancements. 

[Steph and Dud B]

Based on your numbers I'd say, yes, you could tow an Elite 2 with your Expedition. As you mentioned, your limiting number would be your payload limit. Take 600# off for tongue weight and you're down to 725 for you, your wife, and any cargo in the truck. Should be enough. You'd have to check your manual to see if a weight distributing hitch is required for a 7000# GVWR trailer, although it may not be with those specs (AI says it's not needed until the trailer is over 7000#).

[topgun2]

5 minutes ago, Steph and Dud B said:

You'd have to check your manual to see if a weight distributing hitch is required for a 7000# GVWR trailer, although it may not be with those specs (AI says it's not needed until the trailer is over 7000#).

I'd bet that Ford does require a weight distribution hitch - look for a "sticker/decal" on the underside of the hitch on that Expedition.

Also, be mindful of thigs other than "will it tow the trailer" - remember, you also have to stop that trailer, possibly tow it up/down steep grades.  The additional stresses placed on your tow vehicle are also likely to shorten the service interval you had planned on for this vehicle.  Therefore, be mindful of shortened service intervals and while driving pay closer attention to acceleration/stopping distances and avoiding other road hazards.  Your ride quality may also be compromised as you approach the maximum limits of the tow vehicle.  This might make driving a bit less enjoyable for all concerned.

Having said all this, please note that the Oliver is extremely well behaved when towing.

Bill

[rideandfly]

Here's the sticker/decal Bill mentioned on the bottom of an F-150 hitch: