Towing with a 4Runner or Explorer---experiences, please!

"What kind of sway control/WD system do you use?
On a front wheel drive Ford, WD essential and SC nearly required.

Specific problems/issues you've had?
2,000 to 5,000 pounds towing max is very limiting.

Things you really like?
Ford Exlporer looks good. American made.

I'd go for an F150.

I towed with a 2008 V8 4Runner for a few years. I also owned a 2009 with the V6. They are very very solid vehicles and would be more reliable and more capable for towing than an Explorer, IMHO. I know a guy on a 4Runner forum I used to frequent who has 400K+ miles on a 4Runner and still going.

A V8 was an option from 2003 through 2009, same V8 that is in the Land Rover and the Lexus SUV. If you are thinking of used, buy one with the V8. The gas mileage isn't much different from the V6 and it's a much better towing machine, plus has a proper frame hitch from the factory. The V6 OEM hitch design was unimpressive and I wouldn't tow with it. I live in AZ so tranny heat when towing can be an issue. I removed the OEM trans cooler and put a larger aftermarket cooler on.

Good luck!

We towed a 19 ft Airstream with a 4Runner. Pulled just fine. We didn't try to take the world with us. Traveled mostly in the southern US. Also made two trips per year to Gatlinburg. Decent gas mileage. Used friction sway bar. No weight distribution due to factory hitch. Pulled at 60MPH. 4Runner is 2012 model.

I towed with an '03 V6 and an '04 V8 4Runner. Started with a 10' pup then a 19' 3600lbs hybrid. Finished with a 26' 5k bunkhouse with the V8. They were good reliable tow vehicles that towed well, within their rated capacities. The 26'er was getting a bit long for the short wheelbase 4Runner though.

I don't have experience with the new generation T4R but it has basically the same 4.0l engine as the older model. A little more power now and mated to a tranny with more gears should make it better than what I had.

The only note I can add is that the stock T4R hitch is not rated, or recommended, to be used with a WD hitch. It is simply bolted to the rear cross member which isn't designed for the stress. If you want to use a WD hitch you should get a frame mounted hitch.

Are we talking new explorers and for runners or a particular model year range for each? It will make a big difference in your answer