[ZTWsquared]

NefCanuck,Feb 9 2009, 04:33 PM Wrote:

NOS2Go4Me,Feb 9 2009, 01:08 PM Wrote:

NefCanuck,Feb 9 2009, 11:27 AM Wrote:

ZTWsquared,Feb 9 2009, 10:43 AM Wrote:

ANTHONYD,Feb 9 2009, 11:09 AM Wrote:LOL.

I'm trying to keep the size of the car down.
Edge is as big as i'll go, and that's even big.

I'm not whipped, I just want a car my wife isn't going to roll her eyes at every time I wash it.
:lol:
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Fusion AWD + Hidden Hitch + small utility trailer :::: problem solved.
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UH, maybe I missed that part in my owners manual but where exactly does it say that a Fusion AWD is okayed by Ford to tow a trailer? :blink:

Anthony, if you're going for a new Edge, pony up the extra cash for the AWD and the ESC (Electronic Skid Control) The Fusion and Edge share the same AWD setup mechanically and it's a beast in the Fusion (a more thirsty beast than a FWD Edge yes, but a beast none the less)

...and they have mods for the Edge now (including a nice bodykit from 3D Carbon) :lol:

NefCanuck
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ESC is actually RSC with AdvancTrac on the Escape (and it's standard on all models), same guts as the Fusion (same AWD again, it's all Haldex guts) and it tows 3500 lbs (08 spec, anyways) with a class 2 hitch. Most guys fit class 3s to get the more common 2" receiver and a plethora more available toys for the hitch and just "tow within their means".

The scary thing is that I just looked up the Edge and Fusion towing specs - Fusion is NOT rated to tow at any trimline/driveline package and Edge is rated to a max of 3500lbs for all except the Sport model, which is NOT rated to tow.

Not sure why, but there you have it.
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Ah, I didn't know the technical details of what ESC actually was with the Ford vehicles.

As to why the Fusion can't tow anything, maybe it's the way the Edge is built vs. the Fusion? (I could see the Edge getting different structural bracing owing to the vehicles different size vs. a Fusion.

NefCanuck
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It makes sense that the heavier vehicle would be rated to tow more, even with the same drivetrain ... but I think this is more about Ford changing it's "mind" about what is and isn't technically allowable -- case in point was their redefinition of oil change intervals to 10k a while back -- no problem for the engines or warranty costs but big problem for the revenue streams of the dealers -- so Ford changed it back. Nothing about the vehicles changed though.

In terms of trailer towing ... from 2000 through 2007 the Focus was rated by Ford to tow 454kg (1,000 lbs) and from what I can tell, so was the earlier Fusions -- there's lots on teh internets about a 1,000 towing capacity for Fusion. What changed wasn't the vehicle or its capabilities but more Ford's marketing/warranty position.

Additionally, there are quite a few aftermarket options for hitches for Fusion ... and it's been my experience that the aftermarket typically will not engineer a hitch for a vehicle that isn't rated to tow.

Although I normally just use it for the bike rack, I don't have any qualms about using my Fusion to tow a 120 lb trailer and a few hundred pounds of lumber etc ... regardless if what the owner's guide says ... (now to engineer that stealth wiring hookup harness).