Re: [A/S] towing with a jeep-trying again

[Rick Kunath <k9ao@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I don't know about the Nissan vehicles but I have been hearing about the 
Toyota Tacoma having a too-weak frame for load-equalizing hitches. I'd 
say it's out as a tow vehicle, at least this year's model.

Remember that the vehicle's frame has to withstand tremendous forces 
when the load-leveling hitch uses lever action to force the front end of 
the vehicle down from the rear behind the rear axle. Apparently the 
Toyota factory folks really goofed on the new frame. I don't know if the 
4runner has the same issues or not, though you're looking at a too-short 
wheelbase there.

One thing though, the V6 in the Taco would be short on power, though 
with the right model you'd at least have the lower rear end gearing that 
you'd want to get the most out of the engine/trans combo. I don't think 
I'd try anything more than a Bambi with it.

I don't know about the Nissan vehicles, but I'd sure slide underneath 
and look the frame over, then do some Googling on frame problems. Some 
of the Nissan vehicles have a sort of air-adjustable rear suspension 
height option when you get the towing package. This is a nightmare and 
not something you'd want on any tow vehicle. The spring-rate on the 
front and rear of the vehicle has to be approximately equal when you 
have the thing front-to-rear load-balanced or else you'll go down the 
road porpoising along, watching the front end lift up and down like a 
see-saw. This is definitely a way to get yourself hurt.

Most light duty so-called SUV type vehicles these days have a "C" type 
frame, not the fully boxed-in frame they should have for strength with a 
sufficient number of cross braces. Even Chevy pickups fail the frame 
test, having a "C" frame. Ford trucks have a fully boxed-in frame and 
are bulletproof.

Keep in mind the stresses put on the frame when shopping. And look at 
the engine/trans combo to be sure that you have heavy enough hardware 
that you'll not be toasting either one with the trailer in tow. Some 
transmissions are just not up to the towing task. Another factor is the 
rear-end gearing. I'd want 4.11 gearing on a light-duty tow vehicle with 
a V6. Ratios in the 3.23 - 3.4 - 3.6 something are too high. Otherwise, 
you'll be the guy struggling up hills in the slow lane at 15 to 20 mph 
holding up traffic and wondering if the two weeks you have off will be 
enough time to even get to your vacation destination at this rate, while 
all of the other folks wave as they roar past in their pickups at almost 
the legal limit hauling a 34 foot trailer.

You want enough vehicle to safely maintain a reasonable traveling speed 
when heading out. If your tow vehicle isn't up to the task, you're not 
going to enjoy the trailer.

And don't think about mileage. It's gonna be poor. Usually the poorer 
the better for gas, as it means you'll have enough power. If you really 
want decent mileage (not to mention vehicle longevity) while towing, get 
a diesel and a real truck.

Rick Kunath
WBCCI #3060