2002 Trailer hitch

Valley Industries makes exactly what you need for your 2002 - hitch # 82430. Works great, got one myself, no drilling, no welding.

You're a little ahead of me, I'm planning the same, but too busy right now. Pretty sure you can unbolt it and bolt on another. I've been looking and there are not many that fit the Explorer. The nice one from Ford is like $450, way too much, though it would fit the best. Let me know what you find as I'm doing the same.

Ken

On 2002 and later models the hitch receiver (either 1 1/4" or 2") is an integral part of the frame - you cannot unbolt it. That is why I recommended the Valley Hitch # 82430 in my previous e-mail (I also included a diagram). It slides right into the existing factory 1 1/4" receiver, and then bolts to it and to the frame.

Thanks, that's the info I was looking for.. Regards, Rob

I guess I misunderstood what a dealer said. I thought he said I could remove the 1 1/4" receiver from where it bolted to the frame and replace it with a 2" receiver on any 2002 and newer.

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You could be very right - never thought of that approach. Certainly worth looking into.

For me it was easier to just buy the new hitch from Valley.

Hmm, guess I was also under the impression that the hitch could be unbolted. I took a quick look and it looked to be bolted to the frame at the ends. Ford also sells the bigger hitch which looks like a bolt on. But the Valley Ind. is a good solution being cheaper and easier. I misunderstood how it worked.

Thanks Ken