LetsTowThat.com

2000-2005 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity (With Charts)

2000-2005 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity (With Charts)

The Ford Excursion was only made for a total of five years, but it was a powerhouse when it came to towing capacity and some of the ratings I found are mind-boggling.

These came with different engine configurations and different axle ratios, which made the specs a bit different. Let’s dive in!

There were a few differences when it came to the capacity numbers, based on the different model years. The overall capacity was increased on almost every model of the Excursion in 2003 and later models.

Overview of the Data For the Ford Excursions:

Engine Choices: There were 4 different motors that came standard with these SUVs and these were the 5.4L (V8), 6.8L (V10), the 7.3L (diesel) and the 6.0L diesel engines. The 5.4L and 6.8L were used every year the Excursion was made, from 2000-2005. The 7.3L (diesel) was used from 2000-2002 and was later replaced in 2003-2005 by the 6.0L (diesel) but had similar specs as the 7.3L motor.

If you want a great breakdown of what engine options were available for what trim levels, the brochures are a great resource that lays all of that information out nicely. I recommend that you take a look at them if you are curious.

I wanted to list the different engine options that were available for these massive SUVs in order to break up the data a bit, but to also compare how the different engines from the different model years stacked up.

  • 2005, 2004 and 2003 Excursions with the 5.4L (V8) engine had a towing capacity of 6,100-7,600 lbs. and 2002, 2001 and 2000 models had a 6,200-7,200 lb. range.
  • 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2002 Excursions with the 6.8L (V10) engine had a towing capacity of 9,600-11,000 lbs. and 2001 and 2002 models had a 9,600-10,000 lb. range.
  • 2005, 2004 and 2003 Excursions that had the 6.0L (diesel) engine had a towing capacity of 11,000 lbs.
  • 2003 Excursions with the 7.3L (diesel) engine had a towing capacity of 11,000 lbs., while the 2002 models had a 10,500-11,000 lb. range.
  • 2001 and 2000 Excursions with the 7.3L (diesel) engine had a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.

4WD VS 2WD Models: If you study the charts, you will see a difference in the numbers for 2WD VS 4WD models and in some cases, there was a 400-500 pound difference between the two, 2WD models having the advantage over 4WD models.

This was only true for models that had the 5.4l engine equipped and the 6.8l engine though. I even found that for some model years equipped with the 6.8l motor had the same tow ratings for both 2WD and 4WD models, so it was true only in certain circumstances.

Trim Levels: Here is a breakdown of the different trim levels that were offered for the 2005-2000 model years. Most trim levels (except Eddie Bauer models) had the option of having all of the available engine options for that specific year, which shows in the overview data that I have listed below.

  • 2005 and 2004 XLS trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 6.0) with 2WD had a tow capacity of 6,100-11,000 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-11,000 lbs.
  • 2005 and 2004 XLT trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 6.0) with 2WD had a tow capacity of  6,100-11,000 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-11,000 lbs.
  • 2001 and 2000 XLT trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity 6,200-10,000 lbs. of and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-10,000 lbs.
  • 2003 and 2002 XLT Value/Premium trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity of  6,100-11,000 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-11,000 lbs.
  • 2005, 2004 and 2003 Eddie Bauer trim levels (6.8, 6.0, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity of 10,000-11,000 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 9,600-11,000 lbs.
  • 2005, 2004 and 2003 Limited trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 6.0, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity of  6,100-11,000 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-11,000 lbs.
  • 2002, 2001 and 2000 Limited trim levels (5.4, 6.8, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity of  6,200-10,500 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 7,200-11,000 lbs.
  • 2002 Limited Ultimate trim levels (6.8, 7.3) with 2WD had a tow capacity of 10,100-10,500 lbs. and the 4WD models ranged from 9,600-11,000 lbs.

Overall Capacity: The capacity ratings did not differ throughout the short lifespan of the SUV and in fact, there was only a difference of between 100-1,000 pounds for all model years and engines.

The towing capacity for the 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001 and 2000 Ford Excursion ranged from 6,100-11,000 pounds overall and was mainly dependent on the engine that you had equipped.

2005 & 2004 Models:

The 2005 and 2004 models had the exact same specs when you compare the charts, along with the same three engine choices, axle ratios and GCWR specs.

The average towing capacity for the 2005 and 2004 Excursion's ranged from 6,100-11,000 pounds, for all models.

As you can see below, both charts are identical in every way, except for their appearances and the specs are shown for the 5.4l, 6.8l and the 6.0l engines. The 5.4l had the lowest numbers on the charts, ranging from 6,100-7,600 pounds, while the 6.8l and 6.0l engines boasted the best figures, ranging from 9,600-11,000 pounds.

2005 Ford Excursion Towing Chart

2003 Models:

For the 2003 model year, we see that there were four different engine choices: the 5.4l, the 6.8l, the 7.3l and the 6.0l engines.

The towing capacity range for the 2003 Excursions ranged from 6,100-11,000 pounds, depending on the engine that was equipped.

Again, the 5.4l engine came up short compared to all of the other engines, ranging from 6,100-7,600 pounds and the other three engine choices offered 2,000 pounds or more overall capacity, ranging from 9,600-11,000 pounds. The 7.3l and 6.0l engines had the same tow specs for the 2003 models and the 6.0l engine replaced the 7.3l engine after 2003.

2003 Ford Excursion Towing Chart

2002 Models:

For 2002 Ford models, there were only three engine choices: the 5.4l engine, the 6.8l engine and the 7.3l diesel engine.

We can see from the chart below that the average towing capacity for the 2002 Excursions ranged from 6,200-11,000 pounds, which was slightly different from the '03-'05 models.

The two powerhouse engines for the 2002 models were the 6.8l and the 7.3l engines, having a capacity range of between 9,600-11,000 pounds, compared to models that had the 5.4l engine equipped that had a significantly lower capacity range of 6,200-7,200 pounds.

2002 Ford Excursion Towing Chart

2001 & 2000 Models:

For the 2001 and 2000 model Excursions, the overall towing capacity ranged from 6,200-10,000 pounds overall and the same three engine choices that we did for the 2002 models.

The same pattern of higher capacities for the 2001 and 2000 models were seen with the larger 6.8l and 7.3l engines, but the range was not that drastic (9,600-10,000 lbs.) compared to later model year Excursions. The 5.4l models were right on par though, having a much lower rating of between 6,200-7,200 pounds.

2001 Ford Excursion Towing Chart

Axle Ratios Make A Difference…

On some of the Ford Excursions, having a different gear ratio can make a huge difference in how much it can tow when the same engine is equipped.

A great example of this is with the 2003-2005 models equipped with the 5.4L engine (2wd) which has a 1,500 lb. difference between the 3.73 and 4.10 axle ratios.

There is a big difference in maximum capacity for these SUVs that were equipped with the 6.8L engines when looking at the 3.73 and 4.30 axle ratios.

The 2002-2005 (4wd) models had a difference of 1,400 lbs. when looking at the different axle ratios! The 2003-2005 models (2wd) had a difference of 1,000 lbs., still pretty significant!

How Do I Find My Axle Ratio?

There is usually a sticker on the inside of the driver’s side door jamb of most Ford vehicles and towards the bottom of that sticker, you will see the word “AXLE” and below it there will be a code. That code will signify which axle you have on your Excursion.

Ford-Axle-Ratio-Code

Example of axle code (Excursion axle code not used in image)

Note: Sometimes your “AXLE” code on your sticker will be blank, which is what is reported by a lot of Excursion owners, but you can also find the code on the differential as well, along with what type of fluid the differential is filled with.

What Tow Package Did The Ford Excursions Come With?

Even though these SUVs were powerhouses, when it came to towing, they had a pretty basic tow package that came standard on nearly all models from 200-2005. These standard items were:

  • 7 wire harness and pin connector
  • A hitch receiver (usually a class IV)
  • Trailer brake wiring (feed kit)

These were the standard three things that came with these vehicles and nothing else was available from the dealer in the form of an upgraded kit, as far as I could find. The only upgrades that I could find were ones that people had done themselves or had a shop perform for them.

Trailer Brakes

There weren't a lot of details in any of the manuals when it came to trailer brakes and the majority of the information I found can be summed up easily. Ford stated that the trailer brakes must conform to local and federal laws and must be installed correctly and that was about it. There was no weight rating that was specified, like there are with newer model year vehicles.

You will need to check to see what your state requires when it comes to trailer weight and trailer brakes to make sure that you comply with their requirements. On a side note, you will also need a brake controller and a 7 pin connector (included) if you are planning on using electric trailer brakes.

Resources I Used...

As always, I like to post where I found my information and for the Ford Excursions, I used Ford's Towing Guides because the information was laid out in an easy to read format and was fairly simple, as you can see from the images of the charts above.

  • 2005 Ford Guide
  • 2004 Ford Guide
  • 2003 Ford Guide
  • 2002 Ford Guide
  • 2001 Ford Guide
  • 2000 Ford Guide
  • A resource that has all of the model year's brochures is  auto-brochures.com .

Last updated on June 1st, 2022 at 09:05 am

Want To Share This?

2005 Ford Excursion Towing Chart

Fraser Engine Rebuilders, Inc.

Towing and Payload Capacity of the Ford Excursion Through The Years

Towing and Payload Capacity of the Ford Excursion Through The Years

The Ford Excursion was a behemoth of an SUV, dominating the roads from 2000 to 2005. With its imposing size and Super Duty truck underpinnings, the Excursion was a popular choice for those needing a car with massive hauling and towing capabilities. At the heart of its power was the reliable Ford 4R100 transmission .

Payload: Room for Everything

Towing: a powerhouse for pulling.

Perhaps the Ford Excursion’s greatest strength was its impressive towing capacity. The Excursion effortlessly handled heavy loads, and its maximum towing capacity varied across the years and powertrain choices:

  • 1999-2000: Model years equipped with the 5.4L Triton V8 could tow up to 8,500 lbs, while the 6.8L Triton V10 upped that to 10,000 lbs. Opting for the 7.3L Power Stroke turbodiesel boosted the rating to a hefty 11,000 lbs.
  • 2001-2005: Towing numbers remained similar, with those final model years seeing slightly improved ratings in some configurations.

ford excursion trims

The Ford 4R100 Transmission: Built for the Task

The Ford 4R100 4-speed automatic transmission was the heart and soul of the Excursion’s drivetrain. Known for its durability and strength, this heavy-duty transmission was a perfect match for the vehicle’s size and capabilities. The 4R100’s ample gear ratios and smooth shifts ensured effortless power delivery, even when towing at the Excursion’s maximum.

Towing Tips:

To get the most out of your Excursion’s limited towing capacity and ensure safe operation:

Understand your limits: Know the weight of your trailer and the maximum capacity of your vehicle.

Maintain your vehicle: Regular maintenance, especially for the transmission, is key to reliability.

Use proper hitches and safety equipment: Use appropriate hitches, sway control devices, and trailer brakes.

Drive responsibly: Adjust your driving style for increased weight (slower acceleration, broader turns).

Choosing a Ford Excursion Today

While production ceased in 2005, the Ford Excursion remains a sought-after SUV on the used market for those seeking substantial towing and hauling capabilities. When considering a used Excursion, pay close attention to:

Engine choice: V8s offer adequate power, while the Power Stroke diesel is ideal for heavy, regular towing.

Transmission health: Look for a smooth-shifting 4R100 transmission with a solid service history.

Overall condition: These vehicles were often used hard; a thorough inspection is vital.

The Ford Excursion, with its robust build and trusted 4R100 transmission, was a true workhorse in its day. If you need serious towing and hauling capacity, a well-maintained Excursion can still be an exceptionally capable choice.

Sentinel Prime - Panther 6x6 Fire Truck

FAST FACTS Vol. 1, Issue 35 – Transformers 3 Sentinel Prime

Badass by design, this Autobot is a six-wheel fire-fighting titan in real life Sentinel Prime draws his power from a Rosenbauer America Panther 6×6 Fire

Mad Maxs V8 Interceptor

FAST FACTS Vol. 1, Issue 21 – Mad Max’s V8 Interceptor

Known as the Pursuit Special, This Iconic Car Led Them All The 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT 351 was already a mean machine Introducing The

Speed Racers Mach 5

FAST FACTS Vol. 1, Issue 13 – Speed Racer’s Mach 5

From Anime To The Big Screen, This Incredible Race Car Came Alive The Real Mach 5, is actually a real Mach 5, right down to

Fraser's Remanufactured GMC Vortec 5300 (5.3l) V-8 Engine

Fraser’s Remanufactured GMC Vortec 5300 (5.3l) V-8 Engine

Issue 37 • Engine & Transmission Tips This is the GMC Vortec 5300 (5.3l) V-8 engine specifically remanufactured by Fraser, for GMC Envoy, Chevy Trailblazer,

Engines And Transmissions

An Introduction to Engines – Fraser-Style

Issue 2 • Engine & Transmission Tip An Introduction to Engines – Fraser-Style The average automobile owner knows there is an engine under their hood,

Winterize Your Car Like A Polar Bear

Winterize Your Car Like A Polar Bear

Issue 34 • Engine & Transmission Tips There is more to winterizing your car than adding winter wiper blades. The smart driver does a set

Tow Rating for 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4

Are you looking for the tow rating and capacity for the 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4? On this page we'll give you all of the towing capacity specification details for this vehicle.

The 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4 has 2 models with a tow capacity of 7300 to 10000 lbs . The table below covers the tow ratings for each model.

The maximum trailer weight ratings provided here are also referred to as 'tow ratings' or 'tow limits.'

Ratings were provided to us by the manufacturer at the time this data was compiled for each model year. Be advised that manufacturers may have upgraded or downgraded these ratings following the compilation of this data.

Also understand that special / optional equipment and/or towing packages may be required in order to achieve the maximum trailer weight ratings listed here. Also be advised that errors and omissions are possible in this data.

For all of these reasons it is strongly recommended that you double-check these maximum trailer weight ratings with the local dealer for your specific vehicle prior to towing any trailer.

Tow Ratings does not guarantee the accuracy of this data, nor are we liable for any incident, accident, property damage, injury or death related to any person's reference to this data.

Link To or Reference This Page

We spend a lot of time collecting, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site to be as useful to you as possible.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Tow Ratings as the source. We appreciate your support!

<a href="https://towratings.net/detail/2000/ford/excursion+4x4">Tow Rating for 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4</a>

"Tow Rating for 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4". Tow Ratings. Accessed on May 8, 2024. https://towratings.net/detail/2000/ford/excursion+4x4.

"Tow Rating for 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4". Tow Ratings, https://towratings.net/detail/2000/ford/excursion+4x4. Accessed 8 May, 2024

Tow Rating for 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4. Tow Ratings. Retrieved from https://towratings.net/detail/2000/ford/excursion+4x4.

  • 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
  • Email Newsletters
  • Boat of the Year
  • 2024 Freshwater Boat and Gear Buyers Guide
  • 2024 Boat Buyers Guide
  • 2024 Water Sports Boat Buyers Guide
  • 2023 Pontoon Boat Buyers Guide
  • Cruising Boats
  • Pontoon Boats
  • Fishing Boats
  • Personal Watercraft
  • Water Sports
  • Boat Walkthroughs
  • What To Look For
  • Watersports Favorites Spring 2022
  • Boating Lab
  • Boating Safety

Boating Magazine Logo

Tow Test: 2000 Ford Excursion

  • By Don Sherman
  • Updated: January 1, 2000

Is bigger better? If it is, Ford’s 2000 Excursion SUV has made a giant leap forward in stature, prestige, and towing capability. Its tow rating starts at 6,200 pounds in its base form but hits a whopping 10,000 pounds with a full option package. We wanted to put this behemoth through all its paces, so we ordered the largest engine available with a 4×4 driveline and all the trimmings. The standard engine is a 260-hp, 5.4-liter V-8. Options are a 300-hp, 6.8-liter V-10 and a 7.3-liter turbocharged and intercooled diesel V-8 (our test model). Supplied by Navistar, this oil burner peaks at a mere 235 hp, but it cranks out an all-mighty 500 ft-lb of torque at only 1600 rpm. When this engine says go, big ships get a move on.

The Excursion rides on Ford’s F-250 heavy-duty pickup truck underpinnings. That means meaty axles, a substantial frame, and brakes theoretically capable of stopping a speeding locomotive. Inside, there’s ample room for eight passengers and all their gear. Climb two steps to enter the cab, where you ride tall in the saddle; in fact, your sight line will skim the top of a Ford Explorer’s roof. Most traffic looks up at you…in awe.

For ballast, we hooked up a Four Winns 248 Vista cruiser riding on a tandem axle trailer. King Marine of Walled Lake, Michigan, provided the boat and trailer rig, which tipped the scales at 7,180 pounds.

Diesel engines are not for the hollow of pocket. There’s a $4,005 stipend to purchase the torque monster. Diesels offer a significant efficiency advantage over gas engines: 30 percent more mileage than the base gas engine according to Ford. We measured a towing fuel consumption of 11 mpg, quite remarkable for a gross weight of 7.6 tons, but the payback requires roughly 90,000 miles of use.

One thing that can’t be debated is this SUV’s appetite for hard work. At the launch ramp, a mere 1500 rpm was enough to roll us out of the water and onto dry land. Dropped into low range, the big diesel was barely above idle at 1000 rpm when we began inching up the grade. On the road the compression-ignition rattle is nicely subdued. As diesel’s go, this one is powerful, responsive, and well behaved.

Tooling around in an SUV with a 137.1″ wheelbase requires a bit of accommodation. A turn circle exceeds 50 feet, so parking requires planning. Both height and width are in the 80” range, so this machine overflows an ordinary garage slot. The ride is smooth and quiet – for a truck. Don’t expect to glide over rough pavement with the poise of a luxury sedan.

Access to the cargo hold is through one hinge-up and two hinge-out doors. The split middle seat folds and slides for entry to the rear. Head- and legroom are fine for full-size first mates.

LAST WORD. Just try to find something the Ford Excursion can’t haul.

  • More: How-To , tow tests

More How To

Lines pulled from around a propeller

Dealing With a Fouled Propeller

Boat in a lightning storm

Is It Ever Okay to Break Boating Rules?

Brownell stands for boat storage

Brownell Boat Stands Offers Online Boat Storage Course

Boaters encountering inclement weather

I Learned About Boating From This: Should We Stay or Should We Go?

Princecraft Vectra 23 RL running

2024 Princecraft Vectra 23 RL

Bennington 23 RX Sport Swingback out for a cruise

2024 Bennington 23 RX Sport Swingback

Manitou Explore 24 running

2024 Manitou Explore 24

Starcraft RX 23 R DC on the water

2024 Starcraft RX 23 R DC

Boating Magazine Logo

  • Digital Edition
  • Customer Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cruising World
  • Sailing World
  • Salt Water Sportsman
  • Sport Fishing
  • Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Boating may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Boating Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

2000-2005 Ford Excursion: Costs, Facts, And Figures

The short-lived Ford Excursion was the embodiment of the SUV turned up to the absolute excess, and people still swear by it even to this day.

Ford pickup trucks have been around for 75 years across 14 generations, and they continue to be one of the most successful vehicles sold in North America. The Super Duty line of heavy-duty trucks, which Ford recently redesigned, came along in 1999, and their primary purpose was to accomplish feats that the regular F-150 simply couldn't. The Super Duty family made its debut in 1999, and it's been going strong ever since.

With the introduction of the Super Duty line, Ford decided to experiment. They gave a Super Duty some extra seats and put a hardtop on the bed, to create one of the most capable full-size SUVs in all of history: the Excursion.

2000-2005 Ford Excursion

  • 11,000 lbs towing capacity
  • Up to 146 cubic feet of cargo space
  • Model: Excursion
  • Engine/Motor: 5.4-liter V8 / 6.8-liter V10 / 7.3-liter turbodiesel V8 / 6.0-liter turbodiesel V8
  • Horsepower: 255-325 hp
  • Torque: 350-560 lb/ft
  • Drivetrain: Longitudinal front-engine, RWD / 4x4
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic / 5-speed automatic
  • MSRP: $37,650 (base)
  • Immensely capable
  • Capacious interior
  • Presence and cool factor
  • Some reliability concerns
  • Interior isn't the most luxurious
  • Difficult to find examples in nice condition

2000-2005 Excursion Overview

The Ford Excursion came along in 1999 as a 2000 model year vehicle, and it coincided with the launch of the Super Duty line of pickup trucks from the Blue Oval. As you might expect, the Excursion used the same platform as the Super Duty trucks, but it featured a cover over the truck bed, which in itself was a cargo area and a space where Ford mounted an additional row of seats. The thing that set apart the Excursion from other family SUVs with three-row seating was its enormity. There hasn't been an SUV since the Excursion that offers this much excess in terms of sizing and capability.

RELATED: We Would Love Ford To Produce This Awesome Excursion Raptor

The Excursion looked fairly similar to the Super Duty pickup trucks of the time. Obviously, you couldn't get it with dually rear wheels, but the family resemblance was definitely there. The front end was pretty much the same, and so was the hood line. The side profile featured a set of running boards as standard, and the Excursion's length allowed Ford to install full-size rear doors. The rear, meanwhile, featured Dutch doors instead of a tailgate, as well as an opening rear window.

Ford offered a few different trim levels on the Excursion, including the requisite XLT, Limited, and the high-end Eddie Bauer. The Excursion's closest competitor was the Cadillac Escalade ESV, which is still around today, which came along in 2002, but the Excursion really was in a category of its own. Even if you compare it to other similar SUVs, like the Lincoln Navigator and Mercury Mountaineer, or the badass Hummer H1, the Excursion was bigger and more capable than just about all of them.

2000-2005 Excursion Powertrains

Throughout its life, Ford offered the Excursion with four different powertrains. The range kicked off with the 5.4-liter Triton gasoline V8, developing 255 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Then, there was the rather absurd 6.8-liter Triton gasoline V10, developing 310 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline engines remained the same through the whole production run, and there were also two different diesels.

RELATED: 10 Most Reliable Diesel Pickup Trucks You Can Buy Used

From 2000 to 2003 or thereabout, Ford offered the tried and true 7.3-liter Powerstroke turbo diesel V8, which had 250 hp and a substantial 525 lb-ft of torque. From 2003 to 2005, Ford switched over to the less loved 6.0-liter Powerstroke turbo diesel V8, which sat at the top of the lineup as the most powerful and capable powertrain, with 325 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque.

The latter engine had an immense towing capacity of 11,000 lbs, but even the gasoline versions of the Excursion could tow 7,000 lbs or more. Power went to either the rear wheels, or all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, with the only exception being the 6.0-liter Powerstroke, which switched over to a five-speed automatic.

2000-2005 Excursion Interior, Features, And Reliability

On the inside, the Super Duty family resemblance continued. Even though a sizable amount of interior components were the same as you'd find on an F-450 of the same vintage, Ford did their best to elevate the surroundings with nicer trimmings and better seat upholstery, and a fair amount of wood trim. Then again, the front of the Excursion's interior isn't especially important, as it's all about what happens in the rear.

The front did have climate control and an audio system, but so did the other two rows of seats. You could even spec a rear seat entertainment system for the second row, and each row also had its own climate controls. The most impressive thing about the Excursion, owing to its dimensions, is the capacity of everything. This may be an SUV, but it can seat nine passengers, and still offer 48 cubic feet of cargo space. If you fold down all the seats, you get a truly commodious 146 cubic feet of cargo space.

RELATED: How The 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty Flexes Hard With 1,200 LB-FT

In terms of reliability, the Excursion is pretty bulletproof. That's not entirely surprising, as its powertrain lineup pretty much mirrors that of the Super Duty trucks, and as long as the previous owner has done the scheduled maintenance, and you continue to do it, you should be fine. However, it's best to avoid the 6.0-liter Powerstroke, as that's the powertrain with the most issues. Go for the 7.3 Powerstroke or the V10, especially if you plan to tow, as the 5.4-liter V8 isn't quite as capable.

2000-2005 Excursion Prices

The Ford Excursion is starting to gain a lot of traction in the world of used SUVs, simply because of its capability and its ability to do just about everything you could possibly want. Because nobody thought of preserving Excursions, pristine examples are worth a ton of money nowadays. Classic.com estimates the average value for the Excursion to be around $30,000. Some examples have sold for $100,000.

If you can find a solid example, which should set you back around $35,000, you can be rest assured that no other SUV in history is quite on the same level of capability. The Excursion's legacy lives on today, and so does the hope, as Ford revived the trademark not too long ago. Meanwhile, digital artists have put together their interpretations of a modern Excursion.

2001 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity

Find out how much the 2001 Ford Excursion can pull, across 4 different trims.

In this article, we'll give you important data and details about the 2001 Ford Excursion, including the towing capacity, engine size, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), curb weight, payload capacity, horsepower, torque, axle ratio, drive type, transmission type, and more.

Select a trim from the list below to view the towing capacity data. All trims for the 2001 Ford Excursion have the same towing capacity of 11,000 lbs.

If you need any help explaining the terms used in the tables below, you can find a glossary of terms at the bottom of this article .

2001 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity Terms

In the tables above, you'll see a lot of terms that you may not be familiar with. Here's a quick rundown of what they each mean and why each of them is important when it comes to towing capacity.

Maximum Towing Capacity

This is the maximum weight that the 2001 Ford Excursion can tow.

If you are driving at altitudes above 3,280ft (or 1,000m) of sea level, the weight you can tow needs to be reduced by about 10% for every additional 3,280ft (or 1,000m) of altitude. This is because the air is thinner at higher altitudes, which means that the engine has to work harder to pull the same weight.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The GVWR the maximum weight of the 2001 Ford Excursion when fully loaded. This includes the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and any accessories or equipment that you have added to the vehicle.

You can find this number in the vehicle owner's manual, or on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb.

Curb Weight

The curb weight of the Ford Excursion is the weight of the vehicle with a full tank of gas, but with no passengers or cargo and the standard options that come with the vehicle.

Payload Capacity

The term "payload" is the weight of all the things that you put in the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and any accessories or equipment that you have added. It can be increased by upgrading certain options, for example:

  • Better suspension springs
  • Coil-over shock absorbers
  • A longer truck bed
  • Attached a trailer to the vehicle
  • Adding bed rails

Horsepower is a measure of the power of the engine. It is the amount of work that the engine can do in a given amount of time.

In simple terms, the more horsepower a vehicle has, the more weight it can pull.

Measured in lb-ft, torque is the amount of force that the engine can apply to the wheels. This is an important metric for towing because better torque means you can pull weight at lower RPMs, which is better for the engine.

The axle ratio is the ratio of the number of turns of the drive shaft for every one turn of the wheels. The higher the axle ratio, the more torque is applied to the wheels.

The drive type is the type of transmission that the 2001 Ford Excursion has. There are three main types:

  • Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  • Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
  • All-wheel drive (AWD)

All-wheel drive is the best type of drive type for towing because it distributes the weight of the vehicle evenly across all four wheels. Rear-wheel drive is also acceptable, but front-wheel drive is not recommended because they aren't able to pull as much weight.

Transmission Type

Transmission usually means manual or automatic. Some vehicles have a towing mode that will protect the transmission from damage when towing heavy loads - which can cause overheating and failure.

Turbocharger

A turbocharger is a device that forces more air into the engine, which increases the amount of fuel that can be burned. This increases the amount of power that the engine can produce.

If your vehicle has a turbocharger, it will be able to tow more weight than a vehicle without one.

The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear wheels. The longer the wheelbase, the more weight the vehicle can tow.

Front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The front GAWR is the maximum weight that the front axle can support. This is usually a number that is stamped on the axle itself.

Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The rear GAWR is the maximum weight that the rear axle can support. This is usually a number that is stamped on the axle itself.

More Ford Excursion Vehicles by Year

The list below will let you compare the 2001 Ford Excursion towing capacity to previous years.

  • 2005 Ford Excursion
  • 2004 Ford Excursion
  • 2003 Ford Excursion
  • 2002 Ford Excursion
  • 2000 Ford Excursion

towing capacity of excursion

10 SUVs With The Best Towing Capacity, Ranked

S ports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) dominate the global automotive market. People spend money on these vehicles for bigger, more spacious, and more practical rides. You have a ton of choices, from small, midsize, to large SUVs that can carry more passengers, handle rougher terrains, or haul items from point A to B. If you’re not into buying pick-up trucks with the best towing capacity and are in the market for an SUV with the best towing capacity, there are many variables to consider, such as the following:

  • Maximum towing capacity
  • Curb weight
  • Drive system
  • Transmission
  • Chassis design

If you are trying to find answers on how to choose the best SUV for towing, you need to look into these terms to find the ride that fits your lifestyle. Aside from the towing capacity, which is the weight that a vehicle can tow, other factors will play a crucial role in ensuring you can haul what you need to haul and you can get to your destination safe and sound.

Whether you’re pulling a jet ski, a camper, a speedboat, or a recreational vehicle, you need an SUV that has enough brute force and stability to do the job. We have listed some of the best SUVs for towing today to make life easier for you.

We collected information from different manufacturers, KBB , Edmunds , and other reputable website to list some SUVs with the best towing capacity.

RELATED: 10 Best Large SUVs Under $100,000

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit L

Maximum towing capacity: 7,200 pounds.

If you’re shopping for a mid-sized SUV with the best towing capacity, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit L might fit your needs. The Grand Cherokee Summit can pull 6,200 pounds with no sweat, but if you want to enjoy its maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, opt for the 4x4 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit L. This iteration sports a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 that gives you 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.

Engine Specs

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is known for its off-road prowess courtesy of its tried and tested 4x4 system equipped with an active transfer case. The Summit L comes with Quadra-Lift air suspension, hill-descent control, and selectable terrain modes, making life so much easier, even for inexperienced drivers. Of course, this workhorse also boasts a premium interior loaded with provisions that will make your journeys smooth, safe, and comfortable.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450

Maximum towing capacity: 7,700 pounds.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 can comfortably tow 7,700 pounds. This exceptionally valuable capability of the luxury SUV translates to you towing teardrop trailers, a couple of dirt bikes, a sailboat, or some tools. It does not come close to pickup trucks with the best towing capacity , but for a luxury SUV that’s creature-comfort-centric – that’s some serious weight.

The GLS can boast such trailer capacity without requiring any upgrade thanks to its 362-horsepower three-liter inline-six turbo powerplant with 369 pound-feet of torque. Its engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox. This German-engineered SUV also comes with all-wheel drive, trailer stability assist, height-adjusting suspension, and multi mode. It also comes standard with safety features such as blind spot assist, brake assist, and active parking assist.

2023 Lexus LX 600

Maximum towing capacity: 8,000 pounds.

The 2023 Lexus LX 600 is another large SUV that comes with posh styling and stunning towing capacity. The Lexus LX is pretty nimble, relying on a 409-horsepower V-6 twin-turbocharged engine with 479 pound-feet of torque and 10-speed automatic transmission. The SUV sharing the DNA of the global Land Cruiser comes standard with four-wheel drive and trailer sway control.

Some may not be impressed with the Lexus LX 600’s driving dynamics and cargo space , but it makes up for it with its luxurious interiors, quick acceleration, and an impressive towing capacity of 8,000 pounds. The latest LX inherited its 112-inch wheelbase from the first-generation vehicle in the mid-1990s, ensuring high stability and performance even on the roughest terrain. The vehicle also features an improved multi-terrain select that allows the driver to choose from six different driving modes to optimize the ride according to the road conditions, be it dirt, snow, rocks, mud, or sand.

RELATED: 10 Best Three-Row SUVs Of 2023

2023 Land Rover Range Rover P530

Maximum towing capacity: 8,200 pounds.

Aside from its regal reputation, commanding presence, and hefty tag price, the 2023 Range Rover is a capable machine on and off the road. This luxury SUV can haul as much as 8,200 pounds. With the P530 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 Range Rover engine specs, you can expect to tap into 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Though weighing more than 5,500 pounds, the ride is pretty quick and able to go from 0 to 60 MPH in just 4.4 seconds. The three-liter iteration of the Range Rover has a lower pulling capacity of 7,716 pounds.

You can conquer any off-the-beaten paths with Range Rover’s air suspension and a good dose of off-road equipment while enjoying the extensive list of technologies and provisions of the new Range Rover.

2023 Chevrolet Tahoe

Maximum towing capacity: 8,400 pounds.

With a monstrous maximum towing capacity, the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe will not have any difficulty hauling even long livestock trailers or fifth-wheel camper. On top of doing all the pulling, you’ll still be able to enjoy the ride’s good handling dynamics and balance. Under the hood is a standard 5.3-liter V-8 block that produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. There’s also an option for a 6.2L V-8 or a three-liter inline-six that gives out 420 horsepower and 277 horsepower, respectively. All iterations come with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

If you want to enjoy the maximum towing capacity of the Chevy Tahoe, go for the two-wheel drive 5.3-liter engine version. It draws 7,900 pounds without the trailer packages and pulls 8,400 when fully decked out.

2023 Nissan Armada

Maximum towing capacity: 8,500 pounds.

Nissan delivers its promises of elegant styling, premium features, and bold capability with the 2023 Nissan Armada. The Armada engine specs sheet puts the spotlight on the 5.6-liter V-8 engine with 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque as standard. The full-sized SUV that prides itself on its body-on-frame architecture has a standard seating capacity for eight individuals and a three-row configuration that can be easily configured to accommodate your cargo.

The different trims of the Nissan Armada can tow up to a maximum of 8,500 pounds. They come standard with auto-leveling suspension, a Class IV hitch, a seven-pin wiring harness, and Intelligent Around-View Monitor. These and other advanced features ensure you’re in total control, whether towing on a bumpy road, downhill, or in tight city streets. Higher grade Armadas are equipped with trailer sway control and standard trailer brake controller.

RELATED: Best Large SUVs Under $50,000

2023 Lincoln Navigator

Maximum towing capacity: 8,700 pounds.

If you are looking for an SUV with excellent towing capacity with a good dose of opulence, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator is the winner in the luxury large SUV segment. You can enjoy its classy interiors, power-folding seats, and latest automotive technologies while knowing your ride has a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. Lincoln Navigator reviews say that Its interior is like a “sanctuary,” perfect if you’re a high-roller attending a gala one night, and the Lincoln Navigator performance can bring you to the boondocks during weekends for some adventure with all your stuff in tow.

You’ll find a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 aluminum block in the engine bay of the Navigator. This powerplant, capable of producing up to 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. You need to equip the 4x2 standard 2023 Lincoln Navigator with the available tow package to achieve this SUV's best-in-class towing capacity. The 4x4 Navigator has a lower max towing capacity of 8,300 pounds.

2023 Ford Expedition

Maximum towing capacity: 9,300 pounds.

The 2023 Ford Expedition received minor updates , but is another champion when it comes to full-size SUV with a towing capacity of over 9,000 pounds. The new Ford Expedition leans on its long tradition of roomy interiors, generous cargo space, and tried and tested performance, a good formula that will never disappoint.

The standard version of the large American SUV relies on a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 block in its engine bay, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Limited Ford Expedition models come with a more potent version of the engine that gives out 400 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

If you want to make the most of this capable hauler, pick the 4x2 variant and add the SUV’s Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package that goes for less than a thousand dollars. This gives you an electronic limited-slip differential, reverse brake assist, a rearview camera, and a host of tech features to make towing easier for you.

2023 Toyota Sequoia

Maximum towing capacity: 9,520 pounds.

With a twin-turbocharged 3.4liter V-6 engine working in tandem with an electric motor, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia taps into 437 horses and 583 pound-feet of torque to conquer the most challenging roads and hauling duties. The base trim of the three-row SUV boasts a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 pounds when fully equipped and has grabbed the title of Toyota towing beast from the iconic Land Cruiser . It is also now built on the Toyota Tundra platform, making the ride even more reliable and stable on any terrain.

The Japanese carmaker refreshed the Sequoia inside and out. With its head-turning, more aggressive styling, spacious and comfortable interiors, and amazing towing capacity, the 2023 Sequoia is a perfect buddy for weekend overlanding adventures . Plus, the car manufacturer gives owners standard and optional features to help them confidently hitch their hauls.

RELATED: 10 Best Large SUVs Of 2023, Ranked

2023 Jeep Wagoneer

Maximum towing capacity: 10,000 pounds.

If you are looking for the best large SUV for towing, the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer is king. The Wagoneer comes with a impressive towing capacity of 10,000 pounds when fully equipped. It is a roomy full-size SUV equipped with a 5.7-liter V-8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The high-output Hurricane twin-turbocharged powerplant cranks out 392 horsepower and 404 pound-feet of torque.

The entry-level trim of the Jeep Wagoneer has a towing capacity of 7,180 pounds. With a starting price of $63,670, you can spend some more to achieve the vehicle's maximum towing capacity. The towing package for the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer 4x4 gives the vehicle a two-speed on-demand transfer case, electronic rear limited-slip differential, heavy-duty cooling, Selec-Speed control, and a bunch of add-ons that will make life easier when you’re hauling things on a regular basis.

The Wagoneer also has a more luxurious sibling in the form of the Grand Wagoneer, which has a slightly longer wheelbase, worth mentioning. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 9,850 pounds.

10 SUVs With The Best Towing Capacity, Ranked

COMMENTS

  1. 2000-2005 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity (With Charts)

    The average towing capacity for the 2005 and 2004 Excursion's ranged from 6,100-11,000 pounds, for all models. As you can see below, both charts are identical in every way, except for their appearances and the specs are shown for the 5.4l, 6.8l and the 6.0l engines. The 5.4l had the lowest numbers on the charts, ranging from 6,100-7,600 pounds ...

  2. What's The Ford Excursion's Towing Capacity?

    The 1998 Ford Excursion was built with towing capacity in mind. It's a massive vehicle designed to tow big loads. The model has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,200 lbs and can tow up to 11,000 pounds. The 1998 Excursion comes with a 6.8L V10 engine that produces 250 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The EPA estimates that the car has a ...

  3. Ford Excursion Towing Capacities (2002

    The Ford Excursion towing capacity ranges between 6,100 lbs. and 11,000 lbs as specified in our data below, organized by trim, option package, and model year. For instance, the 2005 Ford Excursion has a minimum towing capacity of 6,100 lbs, while the 2005 Ford Excursion has a maximum towing capacity of 11,000 lbs.

  4. 2000 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity Explained!

    This is a quick video showing you what the towing capacity of a 2000 Ford Excursion is, based on a couple of different factors. These will dictate how much y...

  5. Towing and Payload Capacity of the Ford Excursion

    The Excursion effortlessly handled heavy loads, and its maximum towing capacity varied across the years and powertrain choices: 1999-2000: Model years equipped with the 5.4L Triton V8 could tow up to 8,500 lbs, while the 6.8L Triton V10 upped that to 10,000 lbs. Opting for the 7.3L Power Stroke turbodiesel boosted the rating to a hefty 11,000 lbs.

  6. 2000 Excursion Overview

    Excursion offers ample payload capacity of up to 1,906 pounds - 1,750 pounds with the 4×4 drivetrain option. Towing capacity ranges from 6,200 pounds (4×2 with base 5.4-liter TritonÔ V-8 engine) to 10,000 pounds (6.8-liter TritonÔ V-10 gasoline or 7.3-liter Power Strokeâ V-8 diesel). Maximum Functionality and Flexibility

  7. 2004 FORD EXCURSION SPECIFICATIONS

    Overview Specifications DIMENSIONS Dimensions and Capacities Length 226.7 Width 79.9 Height 4×2 77.2 4×4 80.2 Wheelbase 137.1 Track, f/r 68.4/68.1 Ground clearance 4×2 7.38 4×4 8.11 Fuel capacity 44.0 gal Oil capacity V-8, V-10 6.0 qt diesel V-8 15.0 qt Coolant capacity (qt) V-8 26.4 V-10 28.5 diesel V-8 27.5 Interior Cargo volume (cu ft)… read more

  8. 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4 Towing Capacity & Tow Rating

    The 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4 has 2 models with a tow capacity of 7300 to 10000 lbs. The table below covers the tow ratings for each model. A higher tow rating is listed for pickups that tow fifth-wheel trailers. The term NGV refers to \"natural gas vehicle\". Requires 4.10:1 axle ratio.

  9. 2004 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity

    2004 Ford Excursion Trims. Towing capacity by engine. Choose a towing vehicle wisely. Make sure the engine has enough power, the gearbox is capable of withstanding heavy loads, and the axle ratio is optimal for hauling. Limited 6.0L 4x4 - 11,000 lbs. XLS 5.4L 4x4 - 11,000 lbs.

  10. PDF 2023 Ford Expedition Towing Information

    7 Trailer Capacity (lbs.) Load (lbs.) Trailer Capacity (lbs.)7 Load (lbs.) Expedition 6,0009,300930 600 Expedition MAX 6,3006309,000900 7. Hitch receivers do not include a hitch ball or ball mounting. You are responsible for obtaining the proper hitch ball, ... Expedition Trailer Towing Info specs selector tow Created Date:

  11. Tow Test: 2000 Ford Excursion

    If it is, Ford's 2000 Excursion SUV has made a giant leap forward in stature, prestige, and towing capability. Its tow rating starts at 6,200 pounds in its base form but hits a whopping 10,000 pounds with a full option package. We wanted to put this behemoth through all its paces, so we ordered the largest engine available with a 4×4 ...

  12. PDF Auto-Brochures

    Il 000-1b. Towing Capacity — Excursion's standard Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package WIth Class IV hitch receiver makes YOU tow-ready for UP to 1 1,000 lbs.* of horse trailer, powerboat or weekend-warrior equipment (see what we mean on the next page). So dream BIG properly Capability 05

  13. 2005 Ford Excursion

    Overview Specifications 2005 Ford Excursion OVERVIEW SPECIFICATIONS DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES Length 226.4 Width 79.9 Height 4×2 77.4 4×4 80.2 Wheelbase 137.1 Track, Front/Rear 68.4/68.1 Ground Clearance (rear axle) 8.5 Fuel Capacity 44.0 gal Oil Capacity V-8, V-10 6.0 qt diesel V-8 15.0 qt Coolant Capacity (qt) V-8 26.4 V-10 28.5 diesel V-8 28.5 INTERIOR Cargo Volume (cu… read more

  14. A Guide To Buying A 2000-2005 Ford Excursion

    The latter engine had an immense towing capacity of 11,000 lbs, but even the gasoline versions of the Excursion could tow 7,000 lbs or more. Power went to either the rear wheels, or all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, with the only exception being the 6.0-liter Powerstroke, which switched over to a five-speed automatic.

  15. 2001 Ford Excursion Towing Capacity

    Select a trim from the list below to view the towing capacity data. All trims for the 2001 Ford Excursion have the same towing capacity of 11,000 lbs. If you need any help explaining the terms used in the tables below, you can find a glossary of terms at the bottom of this article. Limited 4dr 4x2.

  16. 2003 Ford Excursion Specifications

    POWERTRAIN 2003 Specifications BODY STYLE 4-Door SUV with rear tri-panel door POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS EPA Class SUV Drivetrain Layout Rear- or four-wheel drive Engine Type (block and heads) 5.4L Triton V-8 6.8L Triton V-10 7.3L Power Stroke V-8 6.0L Turbo Diesel V-8 Valvetrain 5.4L V-8/6.8L V-10 SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder 7.3L V-8 OHV, 2 valves… read more

  17. PDF 2024 Ford Expedition

    FRONTAL AREA LIMITATION. Frontal Area is the total area in square feet that a moving vehicle and trailer exposes to air resistance. The maximum trailer frontal area that must be considered for an Expedition/trailer combination is 55 sq. ft. without Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and 60 sq. ft. with Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.

  18. 2000 Excursion Specifications

    Powertrain Engine data Engine type TritonTM 5.4L SOHC V8 TritonTM 6.8L SOHC V10 Power Stroke® 7.3L V8 Diesel Fuel type, grade Unleaded gasoline, Unleaded gasoline, Diesel Power — SAE net (projected) 255 310 235 At engine speed (rpm) 4,500 4,250 2,700 Torque — SAE net (projected) 350 425 500 At engine speed (rpm) 2,500 3,250… read more

  19. 10 SUVs With The Best Towing Capacity, Ranked

    The 2023 Ford Expedition received minor updates, but is another champion when it comes to full-size SUV with a towing capacity of over 9,000 pounds. The new Ford Expedition leans on its long ...

  20. 2024 Ford Expedition vs. 2024 Toyota Sequoia Comparison

    Towing capacity: It's worth noting that when properly equipped, the Expedition has a max towing capacity of 9,300 pounds. The Sequoia's maxim rating is a higher 9,520 pounds. You'll need a ...

  21. 2001 Excursion Overview

    2001 Excursion Overview. "The Ford Excursion was added to Ford's SUV lineup as a 2000 model. It was introduced to address our customers' desire for a heavier duty SUV - one with outstanding cargo and towing capability and increased seating capacity. Excursion's ultimate size and premium level of amenities strengthen Ford's already ...

  22. 2002 Ford Excursion Specifications

    2002 Ford Excursion Specifications POWERTRAIN Powertrain/Chassis Engine Type 5.4L Triton V-8 6.8L Triton V-10 7.3L Power Stroke V-8 Drivetrain Layout Rear or 4-wheel drive Rear or 4-wheel drive Rear or 4-wheel drive Valvetrain SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder OHV, 2 valves per cylinder Bore/Stroke 3.55 x 4.16 3.55 x 4.16… read more