Towing problems with Ford Escape
I just purchased a Palomini trailer to pull behind my 2011 Ford Escape. The escape has a 3500lbs tow rating and the GVW of the trailer is 2900lbs. We placed a class 3 hitch, an anti sway bar and elect...
Forum Discussion
Hitch weight is the killer. Your rear suspension is being overtaxed if it's 443 lbs; you should have a max hitch weight of 350 lbs. Yes a class 3 hitch can take more than that, but can the attachment points, springs, and shocks/struts take the strain?
For the 'bounce' I would have recommended a weight distribution hitch, but they weigh another 60 to 90 lbs and you sure don't want to add insult to injury.
If you are unhappy with the acceleration and hill climbing, well, that's how it is when you tow. It will be slower than you're accustomed to but it is manageable (assuming your Escape has everything the factory tow package would include... especially for transmission cooling). 240HP and 223 lb-ft torque should do ok if you lock out overdrive for towing, keep top speed around 55-60 mph, and don't push hard on long grades.
I think we should give the salesman the benefit of the doubt. He wasn't necessarily trying to deceive you; it's just as likely he was ignorant instead. That TT is just too nose-heavy for your vehicle. A 13' or 16' Scamp or Casita would have been a better choice for their low, narrow, rounded profile and lighter hitch weight.
For the 'bounce' I would have recommended a weight distribution hitch, but they weigh another 60 to 90 lbs and you sure don't want to add insult to injury.
If you are unhappy with the acceleration and hill climbing, well, that's how it is when you tow. It will be slower than you're accustomed to but it is manageable (assuming your Escape has everything the factory tow package would include... especially for transmission cooling). 240HP and 223 lb-ft torque should do ok if you lock out overdrive for towing, keep top speed around 55-60 mph, and don't push hard on long grades.
I think we should give the salesman the benefit of the doubt. He wasn't necessarily trying to deceive you; it's just as likely he was ignorant instead. That TT is just too nose-heavy for your vehicle. A 13' or 16' Scamp or Casita would have been a better choice for their low, narrow, rounded profile and lighter hitch weight.
