Embarking on an adventure often means bringing along all that you need, and the 2017 Ford Expedition is designed to carry not just your family, but also your gear, without breaking a sweat.
With a towing capacity that peaks at a robust 9,200 pounds when properly equipped, this full-size SUV is a powerhouse for both daily duties and extraordinary excursions.
Whether you’re hauling a boat to the lake or a trailer across the country, the 2017 Expedition’s blend of strength and style ensures that every journey is a pleasure, not a challenge.
Dive into the capabilities that set the 2017 Ford Expedition apart, and discover how it can transform your travels into treasured memories.
What Makes The 2017 Ford Expedition A Towing Powerhouse?
The 2017 Ford Expedition earns its reputation as a towing powerhouse through a combination of robust engineering and specialized features designed to handle heavy loads with ease. This is what contributes to its impressive towing capabilities:
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Engine Performance
At the heart of the Expedition’s towing capacity is its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers a remarkable balance of power and efficiency, generating up to 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s twin turbochargers provide a surge of power when needed, such as when pulling a heavy trailer uphill, while direct fuel injection ensures efficient fuel usage across various driving conditions.
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Towing Package
Ford equips the 2017 Expedition with an optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. This package includes a 4-pin wiring harness, a hitch receiver, and an auxiliary transmission oil cooler to manage the additional strain on the vehicle when towing. Moreover, the package features a 7-wire harness and a 4-/7-pin connector, enhancing the SUV’s connectivity with a trailer’s electrical system for lights and brakes.
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Stability and Control
To ensure safety and stability while towing, the Expedition comes with Trailer Sway Control. This technology helps maintain vehicle and trailer alignment, reducing the risk of sway caused by wind, uneven roads, or sudden maneuvers. The system works in conjunction with the vehicle’s AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, which provides additional support to maintain traction and stability.
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Structural Integrity
The Expedition’s frame is built to withstand the stresses of towing. Its fully boxed frame provides a sturdy foundation that can handle the dynamic forces involved in pulling a trailer. This structural strength is crucial for the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds.
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Axle Ratio
The vehicle’s axle ratio is a critical factor in its towing prowess. A lower axle ratio can provide more towing power, while a higher ratio can offer better fuel efficiency. The Expedition’s available 3.31 Axle Ratio strikes a balance between these two needs, providing sufficient power for towing without significantly compromising fuel economy.
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Drive Options
With the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), the Expedition allows drivers to select the configuration that best suits their towing needs. The 4WD option is particularly beneficial for towing in challenging conditions, such as on slippery or uneven terrain.
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How Does The 2017 Expedition’s Towing Capacity Compare To Competitors?
The 2017 Ford Expedition distinguishes itself in the competitive landscape of full-size SUVs with a towing capacity that is not just commendable but class-leading. This is how it compares to its competitors:
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Engine and Power
The Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which is a significant contributor to its towing prowess. This engine delivers 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, providing the necessary muscle to tow heavy loads. In comparison, competitors often rely on larger displacement engines that may not match the efficiency and power-to-weight ratio of the Expedition’s EcoBoost engine.
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Towing Capacity
With a maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds when properly equipped, the 2017 Expedition surpasses its rivals by a considerable margin. For instance, the GMC Yukon XL and Chevrolet Suburban both offer a maximum towing capacity of 8,300 pounds. The Nissan Armada comes a bit closer with a capacity of 8,500 pounds, while the Toyota Sequoia lags behind at 7,400 pounds. This makes the Expedition the go-to option for those who require the most towing capability in this vehicle class.
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Towing Features
The Expedition’s towing advantage is also due to its comprehensive towing features. The available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package enhances its capability, including an integrated trailer brake controller, heavy-duty radiator, and electronic limited-slip differential. These features are designed to improve towing performance and safety, giving the Expedition an edge over competitors that may offer these features as optional or not at all.
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Stability and Control
Ford’s commitment to safety and stability is evident in the Expedition’s Trailer Sway Control and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control systems. These technologies work together to maintain control and stability when towing, which is especially important given the vehicle’s high towing capacity. Competitors may offer similar systems, but the Expedition’s integration of these technologies provides a seamless towing experience.
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Structural Design
The Expedition’s fully boxed frame is engineered for durability and strength, which is essential for high towing capacities. This robust foundation ensures that the vehicle can handle the additional stresses of towing without compromising performance or safety.
Can The 2017 Ford Expedition Really Tow Up To 9,200 Pounds?
Yes, the 2017 Ford Expedition can indeed tow up to 9,200 pounds, but this capacity is contingent on several factors that must be properly configured.
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Engine and Transmission
The Expedition’s ability to tow such a significant weight is largely due to its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine is capable of producing 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, providing the necessary power for heavy-duty towing tasks.
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Towing Package
To reach the maximum towing capacity, the Expedition must be equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. This package includes an array of features designed to enhance towing capability, such as an integrated trailer brake controller, a heavy-duty radiator, and a Class IV trailer hitch. These components work together to ensure that the vehicle can safely manage the weight of a large trailer.
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Axle Ratio
The axle ratio plays a crucial role in towing capacity. The 2017 Expedition with a 3.73 axle ratio is optimized for towing, providing more torque to the wheels for pulling heavy loads. This ratio is a key factor in achieving the highest towing capacity.
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Drive Type
The vehicle’s drive type also affects its towing capacity. The 4×2 (two-wheel drive) models of the Expedition are typically rated for higher towing capacities than the 4×4 (four-wheel drive) versions due to the weight difference and distribution between the two.
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Weight Distribution
Proper weight distribution is essential when towing. The Expedition’s 9,200-pound towing capacity assumes that the weight is evenly distributed across the trailer and that the vehicle’s payload is within its limits. Overloading the vehicle or the trailer can significantly reduce the towing capacity and can be unsafe.
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Braking System
A robust braking system is necessary for safe towing, especially at maximum capacity. The Expedition’s braking system is designed to handle the additional stress of towing heavy loads, ensuring that the vehicle can come to a safe stop.
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Cooling System
Towing puts additional strain on the vehicle’s engine and transmission, which generates more heat. The Expedition’s cooling system, especially with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, is enhanced to prevent overheating during towing operations.
What Are The Key Features Of The 2017 Expedition’s Towing Package?
The 2017 Ford Expedition’s Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package is a collection of features designed to enhance the vehicle’s towing capabilities. Here are the key features that make up this package:
7-Wire Harness & 4-/7-Pin Connector: This wiring harness is essential for connecting the Expedition’s electrical system to the trailer’s lighting and braking systems, ensuring synchronization between the vehicle and the trailer.
Heavy-Duty Auxiliary Transmission Oil Cooler: Towing large loads can put additional strain on the transmission by generating extra heat. This cooler helps maintain optimal transmission fluid temperatures, preventing overheating and potential damage.
Hitch Receiver: The package includes a Class IV hitch receiver, which is the attachment point for a trailer hitch and is capable of handling significant weight.
Heavy-Duty Radiator Upgrade: Similar to the transmission cooler, the upgraded radiator helps manage the engine’s temperature during towing, especially in demanding conditions.
Electronic Brake Wiring Kit: This kit provides the necessary connections for integrating a trailer’s electronic brakes with the Expedition’s braking system.
Upgraded Rear Axle: The rear axle is reinforced to support the additional weight from towing, contributing to the vehicle’s overall towing capacity.
Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: This feature allows the driver to control the trailer’s brakes from the Expedition’s cabin, providing smoother and more synchronized braking.
Trailer Sway Control: This technology helps keep the trailer stable and reduces sway, which can be caused by wind, road conditions, or sudden maneuvers.
How Does Engine Type Influence The 2017 Expedition’s Towing Abilities?
The engine is a critical component in determining a vehicle’s towing capabilities, and the 2017 Ford Expedition is no exception. This is how the engine type influences its towing abilities:
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Engine Specifications
The 2017 Expedition is equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine is known for its balance of efficiency and power, delivering 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The EcoBoost technology combines turbocharging and direct injection to provide the thrust needed for towing heavy loads.
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Turbocharging
The twin-turbocharged aspect of the EcoBoost engine allows for a significant increase in power output, which is essential for towing. Turbochargers force more air into the combustion chamber, increasing the engine’s efficiency and power. This means that even when the Expedition is pulling a heavy trailer, the engine can maintain performance without straining.
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Torque Output
Torque is the force that enables the vehicle to pull weight, and the Expedition’s engine produces a high torque output at lower RPMs. This is particularly beneficial for towing, as it allows the vehicle to move heavy loads from a standstill and maintain speed-up inclines without excessive throttle.
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Transmission Pairing
The engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that is designed to handle the high torque output of the EcoBoost engine. This transmission has a tow/haul mode, which adjusts the shift patterns to provide better control and power delivery when towing.
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Cooling Systems
When towing, engines generate more heat. The Expedition’s engine is designed with an advanced cooling system to manage this heat effectively. This ensures that the engine maintains optimal performance and longevity, even under the stress of towing.
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Overall Efficiency
The EcoBoost engine’s design focuses on providing maximum power with minimal fuel consumption. This efficiency is crucial when towing, as it helps to reduce the overall cost of operation, especially during long hauls.
What Role Does Axle Ratio Play In Maximizing The Expedition’s Towing Potential?
The axle ratio is a critical factor in determining a vehicle’s towing capacity, and in the case of the 2017 Ford Expedition, it plays a significant role in maximizing its towing potential.
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Definition of Axle Ratio
The axle ratio is the number of revolutions the driveshaft must make to turn the wheels once. It’s a comparison of the number of teeth on the ring gear to the number of teeth on the pinion gear in the differential.
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Impact on Towing
A lower axle ratio means the driveshaft turns more times to rotate the wheels once, which can improve fuel efficiency but may not provide as much towing power. Conversely, a higher axle ratio means the driveshaft turns fewer times to rotate the wheels once, providing more torque to the wheels and improving towing capacity.
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2017 Expedition Axle Ratios
The 2017 Expedition offers different axle ratios, and the choice of axle ratio affects its towing capacity. For example, an Expedition with a 3.73 axle ratio will have more towing power compared to one with a 3.15 axle ratio. The higher axle ratio provides more torque at the wheels, which is essential when pulling heavy loads.
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Balancing Efficiency and Power
Choosing the right axle ratio is about balancing the need for towing power with the desire for fuel efficiency. The 2017 Expedition’s available axle ratios are designed to provide a good balance, allowing for strong towing capabilities while maintaining reasonable fuel economy.
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Maximizing Towing Potential
To maximize the Expedition’s towing potential, selecting an appropriate axle ratio is crucial. The 3.73 axle ratio is typically the best choice for those who plan to do heavy towing regularly, as it provides the highest towing capacity. However, for those who tow less frequently or lighter loads, a lower axle ratio may be sufficient.
4×2 Vs 4×4: Which 2017 Expedition Model Offers Better Towing Capacity?
When comparing the 4×2 and 4×4 models of the 2017 Ford Expedition, both configurations offer the same maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds. This capacity is achieved when the vehicles are properly equipped with the necessary towing package and options.
However, it’s worth noting that the 4×2 models typically have a slight advantage in terms of fuel efficiency due to their lighter weight and reduced mechanical complexity. On the other hand, the 4×4 models provide better traction and stability, especially in off-road or adverse weather conditions, which can be beneficial when towing in challenging environments.
How Does Passenger Load Impact The 2017 Expedition’s Towing Capacity?
The passenger load has a direct impact on the 2017 Ford Expedition’s towing capacity due to its influence on the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
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Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the maximum allowable combined mass of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer. The 2017 Expedition’s towing capacity is calculated with the GCWR in mind, which includes the weight of the vehicle itself, the trailer being towed, and the load inside the vehicle, including passengers.
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Payload Capacity
The payload capacity refers to the maximum weight that the Expedition can carry inside, including passengers and cargo. This is part of the overall GCWR. If the passenger load increases, the amount of weight available for towing decreases because the total weight of the vehicle and its contents must not exceed the GCWR.
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Impact on Towing Capacity
As more passengers are added to the Expedition, the available towing capacity is reduced. This is because each passenger adds to the overall weight of the vehicle, consuming a portion of the payload capacity and, by extension, the towing capacity. For example, if the Expedition has a payload capacity of 1,640 pounds and passengers and cargo inside the vehicle weigh 1,000 pounds, the available capacity for towing is reduced.
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Calculating Towing Capacity with Passengers
To calculate the towing capacity while carrying passengers, you subtract the weight of the passengers and any cargo inside the vehicle from the GCWR. The remaining number is the adjusted towing capacity. It’s important to note that the maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds assumes that the payload does not exceed the vehicle’s rated payload capacity.
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Safety Considerations
It’s crucial to consider the passenger load when towing because exceeding the GCWR can lead to unsafe driving conditions, potential damage to the vehicle, and voiding of the manufacturer’s warranty. Always ensure that the combined weight of the passengers, cargo, and trailer does not exceed the Expedition’s GCWR for safe and optimal towing performance.
Is Your 2017 Ford Expedition Equipped For Maximum Towing?
To ensure your 2017 Ford Expedition is equipped for maximum towing, it must have certain features and equipment that are specifically designed to enhance its towing capabilities. This is what’s needed:
Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package
This package is essential for reaching the maximum towing capacity. It includes a Class IV trailer hitch, a wiring harness with a 4-/7-pin connector, a heavy-duty auxiliary transmission oil cooler, a heavy-duty radiator, and an electronic brake wiring kit. These components work together to manage the demands of towing heavy loads.
Engine and Transmission
The Expedition’s 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides the power and torque necessary for towing. The engine’s performance is crucial for pulling heavy trailers, and the transmission’s tow/haul mode optimizes shifting for better control.
Axle Ratio
A higher axle ratio can increase towing capacity. The available 3.73 axle ratio for the Expedition is ideal for maximizing towing potential, offering more torque to the wheels for pulling heavy loads.
Cooling Systems
An upgraded cooling system is vital when towing, as it helps prevent the engine and transmission from overheating. The heavy-duty radiator and transmission oil cooler included in the towing package are designed to handle the extra heat generated during towing.
Brake Controller
An integrated trailer brake controller allows for synchronization of the vehicle and trailer brakes. This feature provides smoother stops and better control when towing heavy loads.
Towing Mirrors
Extended side mirrors offer a wider field of vision, which is necessary for safely towing large trailers.
Tire and Suspension
Proper tires and a robust suspension system are important for towing. They must be able to support the additional weight and maintain vehicle stability.
Conclusion
In the realm of full-size SUVs, the 2017 Ford Expedition stands as a testament to power and capability.
Its impressive towing capacity is not just a figure but a reflection of its robust engineering and thoughtful design.
With the ability to haul up to 9,200 pounds, the Expedition is more than just a vehicle; it’s a reliable companion for those who demand strength and performance in their adventures.
Whether it’s for work or play, the 2017 Expedition’s towing capacity ensures that you can take on the challenges of the road with confidence and ease.
It’s clear that when it comes to towing, the Expedition truly excels, setting the standard for its class and beyond.
