Thoughts....

[roccoecu]

Hi there, I have a 2007 254 exp that weighs in at around 4500lbs. My TV is a 2007 Explorer Sport Trac V8. Its towing capacity is around 7000lbs. I have a very good tow package as well. I would like to take it on a trip to the North Carolina Mountians or maybe even Gatlinburg TN. Should I worry about the elevation climbs? I am no speed demon and I realize I should take it slow on some of the longer climbs. Any suggestions or advice for a newby?

[Doug]

What is the wheelbase of your Explorer?
What is the length of you TT?

I have a 4Runner, wheelbase 110". After a lot of reserch and advise of experts, I was told no longer than 21'

Read the sticky on towing, looking at tongue weight, TT weight, GVWR etc.

There is lots of information as this topic has been discussed extensively.

Best regards,
Doug

[Rustic Eagle]

I'm sure you are aware all TV's loose some powertrain performance towing at higher elevations, even under ideal TV/TT towing conditions. It should be noted that in some TV owners manuals they say to reduce the TV's combined weight rating (GCWR) by 2% for every 1000 feet.

Everyone's TV towing expectations can very under different towing conditions.., but a good place to start is knowing where your TV/TT combination falls with your specific TV weight limits. I guess one way to look at it is if you are towing at/near your TV's limits then I would expect that reduced TV performance will be even more noticeable.

CAT Scale How To: http://www.jaycoowners.com/showthrea...igh-Your-tt-tv

Since your trailer is 5 years old, having the wheel bearings and brakes inspected/adjusted prior to a mountain trip would be wise..., especially if it hasn't been done in the last two years.

Also, transmission fluid tends to break-down faster on vehicles that are used for towing, and this viscosity break-down is accelerated when towing frequently in the mountains. If your 2007 Explorer has been used as a tow vehicle for a couple of years, then I would recommend having the transmission flushed and new fluid/filter installed. This will insure that the fluid is providing optimum protection and fluid temperature control. The majority of the miles I put on my TV are for towing, so I have my transmission flushed around every 30K miles..., plenty of hill and mountain towing as well.

I agree about taking your time towing through the mountains, gives you time to enjoy the views

Bob

[Jagiven]

I agree with Rustic Eagle. But I would also add, ensure you have an overall good maintenance program on your TV. That also includes replacing the rear-end lube, antifreeze (or at least checking its health (ph) periodically), check your brake condition, and so forth. One last thing, watch your brake temperatures on your down hills, downshift if you can, pull over periodically to let them cool down.

[tlhdoc]

As long as you don't expect to fly up the mountains you should be fine. I have an 04 Explorer with the V8 and have towed in that area. No problem. I also change the tranny fluid every 2 years, and use a synthetic. As long as your TV is in good condition, and the brakes on your camper work I would not worry.

[roccoecu]

Thanks everyone. The wheelbase is 130.5 inches and the TT is 26'10". I take good care of my TV as it is also my daily driver. We have only owned the TT since May(our first one) and they walked us through what they did to the bearing and breaks before we bought it. Only 3 trips so far, hoping for more in 2013.