2015 Ford Explorer Receiver Hitch – Towing Capacity And DIY
Installing a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch unlocks the full potential of your SUV, allowing you to haul trailers, mount bike racks, or attach cargo carriers for family road trips. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of selecting the right equipment, performing a safe installation, and understanding your vehicle’s towing limits.
The Ford Explorer has long been a staple for families and adventure seekers who need a blend of comfort and capability. However, many models leave the factory without a tow package, leaving owners wondering how to bridge the gap.
Adding a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch is one of the most impactful upgrades you can perform in your own driveway. It transforms a standard commuter into a versatile workhorse capable of handling everything from a small utility trailer to a pair of jet skis.
In this guide, we will walk through the technical specifications you need to know and the physical steps required to bolt a hitch to your frame. Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a first-time wrench-turner, these steps will ensure a professional-grade result.
Understanding Towing Capacity and Hitch Classes
Before you purchase any hardware, you must understand what your vehicle is legally and mechanically allowed to pull. The 2015 Explorer’s capacity varies significantly based on the engine and factory cooling options.
Models equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine and a factory tow package can often handle up to 5,000 pounds. Without the factory package, or with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, your limits may be much lower, often capped at 2,000 pounds.
Always check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb for your specific Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Exceeding these limits can lead to transmission failure or dangerous braking distances.
Class II vs. Class III Hitches
Most owners looking for a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch will choose between a Class II and a Class III unit. A Class II hitch usually features a 1.25-inch receiver opening and is suitable for light-duty tasks like bike racks.
A Class III hitch is the industry standard for SUVs, featuring a 2-inch square receiver opening. This allows for a much wider variety of accessories and provides the strength needed for heavier trailers.
We generally recommend the Class III option for the Explorer. Even if you only plan to carry bikes, the 2-inch opening is more stable and offers better compatibility with heavy-duty accessories.
Choosing the Right 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch
When selecting your hardware, you will find several reputable brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, and REESE. Each manufacturer designs their hitch to utilize existing holes in the Explorer’s frame, meaning no drilling is typically required.
Look for a hitch that features a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion. Since the hitch is mounted under the vehicle, it is constantly exposed to road salt, moisture, and debris.
Consider the “concealed” designs if aesthetics are important to you. Some hitches are designed so that the main cross-tube is hidden behind the rear bumper, leaving only the receiver opening visible.
Ensure the kit includes all necessary mounting hardware. A quality 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch kit should come with Grade 8 bolts, spacers, and fish wire to help pull the bolts through the frame rails.
Weight Distribution Compatibility
If you plan on towing a camper that approaches the 5,000-pound limit, check if the hitch is compatible with a weight distribution system. These systems help level the load between the SUV and the trailer.
Not all aftermarket hitches are rated for weight distribution. Using a system on a hitch not designed for it can put excessive stress on the frame mounting points, potentially causing structural damage.
Essential Tools for the Job
You do not need a professional shop to install a hitch, but having the right tools makes the process safer and much faster. Gather these items before you begin to avoid mid-project trips to the hardware store.
- Socket Set: You will likely need 15mm, 18mm, and 19mm deep-well sockets.
- Torque Wrench: This is non-negotiable for ensuring the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Exhaust Hanger Tool: Or a large pry bar to pop the rubber exhaust isolators loose.
- WD-40 or Silicone Spray: To lubricate the rubber hangers for easier removal.
- Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from falling road grit and rust flakes while working under the car.
If your Explorer has significant rust, a wire brush or a thread chaser may be necessary to clean out the frame holes. Clean threads ensure the bolts reach their full clamping force without binding.
A set of car ramps or a floor jack with jack stands can provide extra working room. However, many people find they can install a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch while the vehicle is on the ground if they have enough clearance.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
The installation process for a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch generally takes between 60 and 90 minutes. It is helpful to have a second person available to help lift the hitch into place while you start the first few bolts.
Step 1: Lower the Exhaust
The exhaust system sits directly in the way of the frame rails where the hitch needs to mount. You do not need to remove the exhaust entirely, just lower it slightly to create a gap.
Locate the rubber isolators holding the muffler in place. Spray them with lubricant and use a pry bar to slide the metal rods out of the rubber holes.
Be sure to support the exhaust with a jack stand or a ratchet strap. Letting the exhaust hang purely by the forward pipes can put undue stress on the manifold and gaskets.
Step 2: Prepare the Frame Rails
Look at the side of the frame rails near the rear bumper. You will see several existing holes. Some models may have a small factory tie-down hook that needs to be removed and discarded.
If your vehicle has open weld nuts in the frame, clean them thoroughly. Road grime can build up inside the threads, making it impossible to torque the bolts correctly.
If the kit uses carriage bolts, you will use the fish wire technique. Thread the wire through the mounting hole and out the access hole, attach the bolt and spacer, and pull them back through.
Step 3: Positioning the Hitch
This is where a helper comes in handy. Lift the hitch into position, aligning the side plates with the holes in the frame rails. The hitch will sit above the exhaust pipes you lowered earlier.
Start the bolts by hand to ensure they are not cross-threading. Do not use an impact wrench to start the bolts, as you can easily ruin the threads on the frame or the hardware.
Once all bolts are started and the hitch is centered, snug them down with a standard ratchet. Check for any interference with the bumper trim or heat shields during this stage.
Step 4: Final Torquing
Consult the instruction manual for the specific torque values for your 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch. Usually, this is around 75 to 110 foot-pounds depending on the bolt size.
Using a torque wrench is the only way to guarantee the hitch stays attached under the vibrations and stresses of towing. Tighten the bolts in a “star” or alternating pattern to ensure even pressure.
Once the hitch is secure, raise the exhaust back into its original position and reattach the rubber isolators. A little more lubricant makes them slide back onto the metal rods easily.
Wiring and Electronics Setup
A hitch allows you to carry weight, but you cannot legally tow a trailer without functioning lights. You will need to install a trailer wiring harness to power the trailer’s blinkers, brake lights, and tail lights.
For the 2015 Explorer, “Plug-and-Play” harnesses are widely available. These kits connect directly into the factory tail light wiring using T-connectors, requiring no wire cutting or soldering.
You will need to remove the tail light housings to access the plugs. Usually, this involves removing two screws or plastic clips and gently pulling the housing toward the rear of the vehicle.
Choosing Between 4-Way and 7-Way Plugs
A 4-way flat connector is the most common for small utility trailers. It controls the basic lighting functions. If your trailer has electric brakes, you will need a 7-way round connector.
Installing a 7-way plug is more complex, as it requires a dedicated power wire from the battery and a connection to a brake controller inside the cabin. Most DIYers stick with the 4-way for basic towing needs.
Always test your wiring with a circuit tester before hitting the road. Ensure the trailer ground is clean and making good contact with the trailer frame to avoid flickering lights.
Safety and Maintenance Tips
Once your 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch is installed, your responsibility shifts to safe operation and regular maintenance. Towing changes the physics of how your vehicle handles, brakes, and accelerates.
Before every trip, perform a “walk-around” inspection. Check that the hitch pin is secure with a cotter pin or lock, and ensure the safety chains are crossed under the trailer tongue.
Crossing the chains creates a “cradle” that will catch the trailer tongue if the hitch ball fails. This prevents the tongue from digging into the pavement and causing a catastrophic flip.
Managing Tongue Weight
Tongue weight is the downward pressure exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. For a stable ride, this should be about 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight.
Too little tongue weight causes trailer sway, which can be terrifying at highway speeds. Too much tongue weight can lift the front wheels of your Explorer, reducing steering control and braking efficiency.
If you notice the rear of your SUV sagging significantly, you may need to redistribute the load inside the trailer or consider a weight-distributing hitch if your hardware supports it.
Ongoing Maintenance
Inspect the hitch bolts periodically, especially after the first 100 miles of towing. The vibrations of the road can sometimes cause hardware to settle or loosen slightly.
Apply a small amount of lithium grease to the hitch ball to reduce friction and noise. This also prevents the coupler and the ball from wearing down prematurely due to metal-on-metal contact.
If you live in a “rust belt” state, spray the inside of the receiver tube with a rust inhibitor. When the hitch is not in use, a rubber receiver cover can keep debris and moisture out of the tube.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch
Can I install a hitch on an Explorer with a hands-free liftgate?
Yes, but it requires careful placement. Most hitch manufacturers design their products to work around the sensors, but you may find the “kick” zone for the liftgate is slightly smaller or shifted to one side after installation.
Do I need to cut the bumper to fit the hitch?
For most Class III hitches on the 2015 model, no bumper cutting is required. The hitch is designed to hang just below the plastic trim. However, some “hidden” styles may require a very small notch in the lower valance.
How much weight can a 2015 Ford Explorer actually tow?
While the hitch might be rated for 5,000 or 6,000 pounds, the vehicle itself is the limiting factor. Most 2015 Explorers are rated for either 2,000 lbs (base) or 5,000 lbs (with the V6 tow package). Never exceed the lower of the two ratings.
Is it safe to use a hitch extender?
Hitch extenders are useful for clearing spare tires or recessed bumpers, but they reduce your hitch’s weight capacity by as much as 50%. Use them only for light loads like bike racks, and avoid them for heavy trailer towing.
What is the difference between a weight-carrying and weight-distributing rating?
A weight-carrying rating is for a standard ball mount. A weight-distributing rating is usually higher and applies only when using a specialized hitch head with spring bars to move weight to the front axle.
Final Thoughts on Your DIY Project
Equipping your vehicle with a 2015 ford explorer receiver hitch is a rewarding project that significantly boosts your SUV’s utility. By following the proper torque specs and choosing high-quality hardware, you ensure years of safe towing.
Remember that towing is a skill that takes practice. If you are new to pulling a trailer, find an empty parking lot to practice backing up and turning before you head out on a long trip.
Always prioritize safety by checking your lights, tires, and hitch connections at every fuel stop. With the right preparation, your Explorer will be ready for any adventure you throw its way. Stay safe, check your torque, and enjoy the open road!
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