Forum Discussion

sw20td06's avatar
sw20td06
Explorer
Dec 10, 2015

Need Feedback ASAP - Questions about Towing

After reading countless threads about towing with the Sequoia, I am left with more questions. Now it is has me questioning by pending purchase.

In the next hour or so, I plan to purchase a 2008 Limited 2WD. The model code is USK60L-GKTLKA.

GVWR is 7100
Curb Weight is 5730
GCWR is 14000, maybe 16000

So by that calculation I have 1370 left for the tongue wieight of the trailer and passengers, cargo, etc in the truck.

The trailer I have I towed with an excursion I sold.

30.6 ft. Tango Trailer
GVWR is 7400
Dry Weight 5760
Tongue Weight 720

My calculations is as follows.

5730 Curb Weight + 5760 Trailer Dry Weight + 1520 (Payload, including tongue weight of trailer{720}) = 13010

Are my calculations correct? Looks like I may exceed my payload by 150 lbs or so.

Cant the receiver hitch handle my 720 tongue weight of the trailer?
Am I asking for trouble going over my payload by a couple of hundred pounds?

Any input as soon as possible would be appreciated!
  • coolmom42's avatar
    coolmom42
    Explorer II
    Dec 10, 2015
    I've towed with a Sequoia, and I can tell you that is too much trailer for one. Too long and too heavy. A Sequoia is a great vehicle, and a good match for a smaller trailer, like a 21-24'.

    You would likely be OK for short trips, no mountains, etc. But your towing experience on any other type of trip would be very unpleasant.
  • westend's avatar
    westend
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2015
    There was a gal and guy on here a few months ago that had a Sequoia with a trailer of about 5500 lbs dry weight. After a few trips, they traded it in on a Ford pickup. I bet that wasn't a cheap buying process.

    Have you looked at the 3/4 ton crew cab pickup trucks? They may offer pretty much what you're looking for.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Dec 10, 2015
    Toyota makes nice vehicles, but sadly they are really lacking in the towing department. Kids just got rid of their 2014 Tundra because it was really lacking. Add to that the horrible fuel economy,your better off with a 2500 series. At least before you buy, look at 2500 Suburbans
  • sw20td06's avatar
    sw20td06
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2015
    Okay. I just did not want to go back to a 3/4 ton vehicle. I prefer the more comfortable ride of an independent rear suspension but do not like any offerings of the big three. I need cargo/passenger room and towing power. I do have an equalizer WD hitch. I am about 150 over on payload on paper. GVWR is 7100 which I am over about 150 lbs. GCWR I am under about 1-2k depending on model I am getting. I estimate about 13k GCWR total. I appreciate your feedback.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Dec 10, 2015
    Tow vehicle to small

    By the time you load you, all passengers, any stuff inside and fuel you will have eaten up a majority of that payload. THen add in the 720#(+) tongue weight.
    Over on tow vehicle GVWR
    Probably over on RAWR and Rear tire Max Load Rating

    Just doesn't sound like a good combo
  • RJCorazza's avatar
    RJCorazza
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2015
    Take this with a grain of salt, but if your cargo calculation is in fact accurate: over is over. No way too know without weighing the rig, but I would want to know if the rear TV axle is overloaded. As far as the hitch rating you will find that stamped on the TV hitch itself. Should have a non weight distribution rating and WD rating specified. You didn't really ask, but I would not consider a marginal tow vehicle purchase when I already had the trailer.
    Many tow at or over some of the TV specified limits. I prefer to remain well within the ratings. All IMHO...

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