Ford Explorer Tow kit

[Daddy's truck]

Unbelievable - I called three (3) different dealers in my area to get a Ford Neutral Tow kit installed so I can tow my 2004 Explorer with 4 wheels down - 1 dealer never heard of the kit; 1 dealer said he did it beofre but couldn't quote a price "'cause it's time and material and we don't know how long it takes til we get in there". Has anyone had this done in NJ? I have read where it should only be approx. $100 installed, but I'm having trouble finding a place. Help!

[Daddy's truck]

Unbelievable - I called three (3) different dealers in my area to get a Ford Neutral Tow kit installed so I can tow my 2004 Explorer with 4 wheels down - 1 dealer never heard of the kit; 1 dealer said he did it beofre but couldn't quote a price "'cause it's time and material and we don't know how long it takes til we get in there". Has anyone had this done in NJ? I have read where it should only be approx. $100 installed, but I'm having trouble finding a place. Help!

[Gary RVRoamer]

I'm not surprised that many have not heard of it. You don't see many Explorers under tow and it is unlikelt that the average dealer shop has installed the kit. My guess is that "time and materials" is what they all will say, since it not a procedure they are familiar with. It always takes longer the first time, so you may foot the bill for the learning curve. From what I hear the procedure is not difficult, but I have no first hand experience to offer nor any suggestion about a dealer.

You might consider ordering the kit your self (you are going to pay the same Ford list price for it anyway) so you can get the install instructions that should come with it. That way you cn show the shop what has to be done and get a better estimate. It doesn't have to be installed by a Ford dealer either, once you have the kit.

[Dry Rot]

I can give you a part number I think. It is just a light and a short wire loom. The computer does all the work and I believe any computer will do it after reprogramming accept you need this light to tell you that you are in neutral. My Explorer is a 2000 but you can check to be sure if they are the same.
This was 4 years ago but I ordered one for about $15 and then the shop forman looked up the install. Total install:$105
Better e-mail me since I don't stop by often:
dolldave@earthlink.net
In case the server did not come through, it was earthlink.net.

[Daddy's truck]

Well, I had the tow kit installed at a local Ford dealer. Labor cost me $100.00 plus tax. The instructions on how to use the kit are above the visor on a label stuck to the headliner. Seems easy enough to use.

Now for questions:
1. Other than setting it, is there anything else I need to do or add (besides a braking system and tow bar)?
2. Do I have anything to worry about as far as lubrication is concerned?
3. Do I have to run the engine every few hundred miles or so?

Thanks

[Dry Rot]

1. Nothing else to do. I take note of the mileage when I first hookup, then a mile or two down the road when I check everthing else I check it again to make sure no miles have been clocked; meaning still in gear.
2. No lubrication but understand if you lose toad battery power, it goes into gear. Keep a good battery in it and refrain from having a big heavy bunch of keys to hang onto and wear out the switch. I have an extra key (happens to be without diode since they are $1) to keep the steering unlocked. Then I can lock the car with the romote when we travel.
3. There is no requirement to run the engine.
4. Consider a M&G brake and one of my alert lights.
Dave D.
http://MidwayRVSpecialties.com

[NewHeart]

I have been towing my 2002 Explorer 4X4 for the last year. I have towed it over 11,000 miles with the netural tow kit with no problems. I use a US Gear tow brake. The US Gear tow brake has a wire from the motor home battery which keeps the toad battery charged while towing. The setup has worked well for me.