When you have a ford explorer with such great towing potential, you will indeed be more popular. It does so because you will receive more asks for help from people around. It is inevitable since the towing capacity of a ford explorer can tow boats, bicycles, campers, and even jet ski trailers.
In fact, towing is essential and has a significant impact on many people’s daily lives. It can be beneficial on almost every occasion, including recreational purposes, home moving, or car breakdown. According to one study, one in three American households owns or rents a truck or towing car. Although towing is an unavoidable operation, people have to know that it can cause serious injury if not done correctly.
Towing is a complex operation that involves three terms that you need to understand to avoid accidents. First, the term is the gross weight combined rating or known as GCWR. Besides, there is also the weight of the load and the maximum towing capacity. Find out more information on each term below.
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
You need to know the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), especially if you are towing heavy loads. The manufacturer has set the GCWR is the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle. Suppose you plan your next vacation with camper trailers. It means that you have to check the total weight of the trailer and towing vehicle, so it must not exceed the combined gross weight specified by the manufacturer. The allowable gross weight does not include the total weight of the trailer or towing vehicle, only the maximum gross weight. The vehicle identification place shows the amount of the maximum gross weight. The location is visible to ensure other drivers can see it easily.
The Loading Weight
The trailer load-distributing weight, also called the loading weight, is the same. It is the maximum load the vehicle can tow. A weight distributing hitch is recommendable. These hooks distribute the weight of the trailer to the towing vehicle. Gooseneck hooks are ideal for this purpose because they distribute the weight more evenly. You can determine the weight of the load by placing the trailer, passengers, and truck on a scale.
Maximum Towing Capacity
Maximum towing capacity refers to the maximum towed weight of the vehicle. The manufacturer has usually specified it in your vehicle’s manual. Different vehicles may have their unique tow hooks, so be sure to check before attempting to tow. Subtract the weight of the loaded trailer, boat, or any vehicle for towing to the GCWR to find the maximum towing capacity.
All information above is crucial for safety reasons. It is indeed vital to know the weight of the trailer or other vehicles you are towing. Otherwise, you risk your safety and the safety of your passengers. The trailer or vehicle to tow’s weight can cause the brakes and transmission of your tow vehicle to fail. It can cause you to lose control of your towing vehicle. Therefore, ensure your safety by knowing the total allowable weight, the maximum trailer weight, and the loading weight of your towing vehicle and trailer.