We have a hybrid that's about 3,000 lbs and are towing it with an 07 4Runner with a 5,000 capacity. We don't tow with the tanks filled. Our maximum towing distance is about 70 miles and everywhere we go is flat. 4Runner only has about 36,000 miles.
We only got an RV last year so we are trying to learn and understand things. Between now and early September the camper is being used for at least 10 different weeks, possibly more. Even with the trailer weight well within our limit, how much wear and tear does this put on the TV? 4 of those 10 trips are the 70 mile trip with the remaining trips only being about 10 miles.
We are considering getting a used TV like an Expedition, F150, 1500, Tahoe, etc. Something that can handle a lot more weight. If the wear and tear on the 4Runner will be a lot then we'll look into these larger vehicles, but even then I think we might upgrade the trailer at that point too. lol
So, how stressful is the trailer on our TV considering how many times we are using it and where we are going.
If your looking for a reason to get a pick up, then go for it. But your 4runner should be fine. Maintanance on two vehicles will come out more expensive.
have you actually weighed the trailer because only the smallest hybrids weigh in the 3000lbs. range.
you don't mention what model you have, but only the 17' or smaller have weights like that. and most will be close to their GVWR of 3500lbs., since they have very low cargo capacities.
Dan- Firefighter, Shawn- Musician/Entrepreneur, Zoe- Faithful Golden Retriever, 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche LS, 2007 Rockwood Roo 23SS w/Equalizer and Prodigy, and 5 Mtn. bikes and 2 Road bikes
Your manufacturers tow RATING tells you what the manufacturer believe it will tow and they are usually pretty accurate. The published tow rating tells you at what weight the warranty will no longer be honored when it relates to anything to do with weight. Of course towing overloaded won't effect the warranty on your turn signals but transmission etc. it will.
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I haven driven the thing myself yet. My parents bought it last fall and the entire family will be using it. Only problem now is only one TV in the family which is my brother and his family, hence the 4Runner. MY wife and I are taking it next month for the first time. Whenever someone wants the camper, the give my brother their car and they borrow the 4Runner. He's fine with it and we all live within 5 minutes of each other.
We were thinking of the pickup or larger SUV to make a dedicated TV. That's all the vehicle would be used for and the cost of the TV would be split across the family. The larger, dedicated TV could also pull a possible TT upgrade too.
The 4Runner will handle it fine, no need for a truck unless you really want one. If you're worried about wear and tear just remember that the V8 T4R is rated to tow up to 7300lbs with the same frame and suspension components. Only difference is the engine and trans. The 4.0l V6 is strong and nearly bullet proof.
I towed a 19' hybrid at 3500lbs with my '03 V6. It handled the weight just fine. I did find it struggled a little with the drag of the full height HTT in strong headwinds at highway speeds but it also only had the 4 speed. The '07 with the 5 speed trans will be better kept in the power band. Keep it in 4th while towing is recommended and will minimize strain and wear and tear on the powertrain. It will run higher rpms but run cooler and actually burn less gas.
I did eventually trade up to an '04 V8 to handle the HTT better but only because I camp a lot and travel some long distances. I think you'll be more than happy with your T4R and that trailer, especially with the short trips.
On a side note, if you plan on using a WD hitch (which you should) you need to make sure you have the frame mounted hitch (may need to upgrade to an aftermarket one) as the standard hitch on the T4R is cross member mounted and not designed or structured to handle the forces of a WDH. You are at risk of bending the cross member which is not repairable.
* This post was
edited 04/05/12 06:19pm by camp-n-family *
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, 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche LS, 2007 Rockwood Roo 23SS w/Equalizer and Prodigy, and 5 Mtn. bikes and 2 Road bikes
