Thoughts on next tow vehicle
I have a 2006 Subaru Outback that I have towed my 2009 Coleman Yuma pop up with for several years. The Outback is getting up there in mileage, and I would like some ideas for a more ideal tow vehic...
Forum Discussion
If using a mini-van or small pickup for towing, remember the "math".
re:
Loaded Vehicle:
- Most have MAX 3,200 lbs towing power.
- With above number, subtract weight of driver.
- With remaining above number, subtract with of passenger.
- With remaining above number, subtract weight of kids/dog.
- With remaining above number, subtract weight of its own internal cargo.
- With remaning above number, subtract weight of hitch.
Final number is the "real" MAX number it can tow.
Loaded Trailer:
- Load up trailer as if going on a normal camping trip and "Scale Weight" it. Don't guess at its final loaded number. Simply weigh it. Many folks load 300-400 lbs of "stuff" and don't even realize it.
Take remaining number from loaded Tow Vehicle and subtract loaded "scale weight" of trailer. If result is negative number, then buy a larger size Tow Vehicle. Or, "dump some stuff".
If loaded PUP is more than 1,500 lbs, I highly recommend installing full electric brakes under the PUP. This is simple brake hub install + wiring or simply replace existing axle with new axle (that has electric brakes). Add brake controller inside the Tow Vehicle and all is good. This 1,500 lbs number isn't a make or break number. But IMO, it should be law within all states - not just the states with known steep hills. Trailer brakes on PUPs work great. Especially behind light weight Tow Vehicles - like mini-vans.
And, ensure one installs a large ATF cooler inside their mini-van as well. Don't go with the 3,500 Tru-cool or Hayden brands. Install their 5,000 lbs model - to allow their FWD transmissions to run even cooler.
If wondering, I had a previous mini-van and blew its transmission - from too much towing stress. Currently tow with a different mini-van and its FWD seals are now leaking. GGGRRRRR.... IMO, mini-vans aren't the best Tow Vehicles. Especially when loaded down with passengers and internal cargo at same time. If into heavy weight PUP towing, use a mid-size V6 pickup or Traverse V6 with Towing Packages installed.
.
re:
Loaded Vehicle:
- Most have MAX 3,200 lbs towing power.
- With above number, subtract weight of driver.
- With remaining above number, subtract with of passenger.
- With remaining above number, subtract weight of kids/dog.
- With remaining above number, subtract weight of its own internal cargo.
- With remaning above number, subtract weight of hitch.
Final number is the "real" MAX number it can tow.
Loaded Trailer:
- Load up trailer as if going on a normal camping trip and "Scale Weight" it. Don't guess at its final loaded number. Simply weigh it. Many folks load 300-400 lbs of "stuff" and don't even realize it.
Take remaining number from loaded Tow Vehicle and subtract loaded "scale weight" of trailer. If result is negative number, then buy a larger size Tow Vehicle. Or, "dump some stuff".
If loaded PUP is more than 1,500 lbs, I highly recommend installing full electric brakes under the PUP. This is simple brake hub install + wiring or simply replace existing axle with new axle (that has electric brakes). Add brake controller inside the Tow Vehicle and all is good. This 1,500 lbs number isn't a make or break number. But IMO, it should be law within all states - not just the states with known steep hills. Trailer brakes on PUPs work great. Especially behind light weight Tow Vehicles - like mini-vans.
And, ensure one installs a large ATF cooler inside their mini-van as well. Don't go with the 3,500 Tru-cool or Hayden brands. Install their 5,000 lbs model - to allow their FWD transmissions to run even cooler.
If wondering, I had a previous mini-van and blew its transmission - from too much towing stress. Currently tow with a different mini-van and its FWD seals are now leaking. GGGRRRRR.... IMO, mini-vans aren't the best Tow Vehicles. Especially when loaded down with passengers and internal cargo at same time. If into heavy weight PUP towing, use a mid-size V6 pickup or Traverse V6 with Towing Packages installed.
.
