Any straight info on TVs? Especially Ford Flex.

System

This discussion was created from comments split from: Tow vehicle.

TabDrop

My TV was in an accident last week and I am out looking for another TV.  I love the Ford Flex and am looking at a 2015 used with the Eco Burst engine, but NOT a trailer towing capacity.  We are towing a T@B Q.  Any one with experience or advice?  I cannot seem to get a good straight answer and I am really a novice at this towing stuff.   

rkj__

See page 23 of Ford's towing guide.  4,500 lb when properly equipped with a class III hitch.

https://www.ford.ca/resources/ford/general/pdf/towingguides/35520_2015_rv_trailer_and_towing_guide_english.pdf

If you need to add an aftermarket hitch, it looks like the dual exhaust models are rated for only 4,000 lb. / 400 lb tongue weight.

https://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2015_Ford_Flex.htm

Long story short, yes, the Flex can tow a T@b Q.

dragonsdofly

@TabDrop, welcome to the forum, to the t@b family and congratulations on your trailer! Condolences on the misfortune and concern replacing the TV. We were in a similar situation just after purchasing our t@b and bringing it home. We were days from departure on an epic 2 month vacation out west when we were rear-ended by a teenage twit taking selfies while driving. Our vacation was shortened by 2 weeks amidst the scramble for a replacement. Good luck in the endeavor and open roads with safe travel in your future. We'll wave if we see ya!

TabDrop

So I know the tow capacity is 4000 (actually I think it is 4500) with the Trailer Towing Package. My problem is trying to figure out if I can tow capacity WITHOUT the trailer towing package.  According to the Ford specs it is 2000 ibs.  I have read stuff all over the Ford Flex forum that gives me different indications.  If I have the Eco burst engine shouldn't I be OK with a T@B that weighs somewhere between the two numbers?

Verna

According to Ford, and your insurance company, you must go by Ford specs. There are people who wanted to tow a T@B with a Smart Car......and they couldn’t. 

Seriously, ask your insurance company if they will cover you if you are knowingly towing over your vehicle’s capabilities. 

rkj__

TabDrop said:

So I know the tow capacity is 4000 (actually I think it is 4500) with the Trailer Towing Package. My problem is trying to figure out if I can tow capacity WITHOUT the trailer towing package.  According to the Ford specs it is 2000 ibs.  I have read stuff all over the Ford Flex forum that gives me different indications.  If I have the Eco burst engine shouldn't I be OK with a T@B that weighs somewhere between the two numbers?

Well, from my understanding, how that boils down, is that the vehicle is physically capable of towing, with a proper hitch, wiring harness, and trailer brake controller.  As you may have read, you would not be able to gain the Flex's sway control features, but the T@b is not very prone to sway if loaded with appropriate tongue weight. 

But, one could argue, that the vehicle is still only officially rated to tow 2,000 lb.  When would that be a problem?  Possibly with the dealer denying warranty claims (if still applicable), or insurance companies denying claims (unlikely, but possible.)

So, the best option is definitely to seek out a vehicle with the factory installed tow package. 

MuttonChops

TabDrop said:

. . . tow capacity is 4000 (actually I think it is 4500) with the Trailer Towing Package.

. . . trying to figure out if I can tow capacity WITHOUT the trailer towing package. 

To obtain the 'with towing package' rating you need to add aftermarket equipment that would be in a tow package.

The Flex 2015 Class III Tow Package:

   - -  hitch receiver with 4,500-lb. rating, == Any Quality Class III bolt-on receiver

   - -  7/4-pin connector with wiring harness,  == Any Quality 7-Pin connector With VBat+12V

   - -  and trailer sway control  = = if sway is an issue, then add a sway control bar to T@B

If your T@B has electric brakes, you'll also need an Electric Brake Controller.

Important Special Note:

  Ford 2015 Trailer Towing Guide (link in above post) REQUIRES a Weight-Distribution-Hitch

  for the Flex to tow above 2,000 pounds.  See Guide Pages 13, 27, and 28

Reference

2015 Flex Sales Brochure

TabDrop

Thanks for the assistance.  I think the info I have received is now understandable, but not sure what I am going to do.