SoCal Jet Boats

Discussion => The No Wake Zone => Topic started by: Mx574 on August 07, 2021, 10:19:34 AM

Title: Ford explorer
Post by: Mx574 on August 07, 2021, 10:19:34 AM
Curious if anyone uses Ford explorer to tow their boat. If so how does it perform as tow vehicle.
Thanks
Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: 76Mantra455 on August 07, 2021, 06:36:43 PM
I tow mine with a Ford Focus ST 6 speed manual and it does just fine but what kind of boat you trying to tow??? For me I won’t tow any thing longer then 19 or 20 ft.


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Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: Flusher on August 08, 2021, 07:43:21 AM
Recently saw this video and thought it was worth sharing.

https://youtu.be/JeEEC5eVNCk

The video did mention an unofficial rule (in Australia), that is apparently law here in CA.  I had to make a donation to local law enforcement for towing a 1500 Durango on my car hauler with my Jeep XJ.  The issuing officer stated that it is illegal to tow a load that is heavier than the tow vehicle.  I would look into the legalities, where you will be towing, and weight ratings of your rig.

One other thought regarding tow vehicle weight. While launching my 21' Hallett at an unusually steep launch ramp where sand and gravel had gotten kicked onto the dry ramp.  The weight of my boat did pull my '83 Suburban around quiet a bit, causing the front tires to slide around like on ice.  A few passengers and 4-low calmed that down.

I'd hate to be the guy who sinks his tow rig at the launch ramp, or worse yet, the guy who rolls his boat on the Interstate.
Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: size60pants on August 08, 2021, 10:47:43 AM
I tow mine with a Ford Edge, wouldn’t really trust it on a steep ramp though.


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Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: 77fordwind on August 08, 2021, 11:18:37 AM
Recently saw this video and thought it was worth sharing.

https://youtu.be/JeEEC5eVNCk

The video did mention an unofficial rule (in Australia), that is apparently law here in CA.  I had to make a donation to local law enforcement for towing a 1500 Durango on my car hauler with my Jeep XJ.  The issuing officer stated that it is illegal to tow a load that is heavier than the tow vehicle.  I would look into the legalities, where you will be towing, and weight ratings of your rig.

One other thought regarding tow vehicle weight. While launching my 21' Hallett at an unusually steep launch ramp where sand and gravel had gotten kicked onto the dry ramp.  The weight of my boat did pull my '83 Suburban around quiet a bit, causing the front tires to slide around like on ice.  A few passengers and 4-low calmed that down.

I'd hate to be the guy who sinks his tow rig at the launch ramp, or worse yet, the guy who rolls his boat on the Interstate.
Yup same thing happened to me towing a ram van home from Arizona with my xj.
Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: Mx574 on August 08, 2021, 03:30:47 PM
Thanks for the info and input.
Boat is a commander 21 ft open bow
Title: Re: Ford explorer
Post by: GlassCutter on November 29, 2021, 08:18:45 PM
Towing is usually not nearly the concern that stopping is. 
One time I towed my 18' Horizon with a Bronco II.   It was misting, not even a sprinkle really, and the weight of the boat (no trailer brakes) at just 20 mph pushed the Bronco right through a red light and into the center of the first intersection that I came to.  Luckily it was about 5 a.m. and no accidents were had that day.  I will never tow with a Bronco II again.  EVER.
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