westend wrote:
Max payload of the Explorer--1446 lbs.
Max towing capacity with Class II hitch---3400 lbs., with Class III/IV hitch--5400 lbs.
Jason,
Max payload is how much weight you can safely put on the vehicle. This includes the weight of the passengers and luggage. It also includes the "tongue weight" of the trailer. This is because the trailer tongue weight (when hitched to the truck) is carried by the truck.
Max towing capacity is the total weight of the trailer that you can safely tow. The stronger hitches allow higher towing capacity for your truck.
You need to start reading about the tow weights until you get the most important concepts for safe travels. (hint - these two concepts are the ones for you to focus on at first).
Note that the max payload is usually the limiting factor.
Ed
