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Sailmonkey · 07-06-2018, 03:41

Quote:

Originally Posted by chris mac

A quick google search shows a tow rating of 2900 lbs. So legally, no. Safely, no. But ignoring all that, we'll it's a bad idea to ignore the laws and safety.
Unless of course the Internet is lying to meAttachment 171208

We’re all assuming the OP has a 4 cylinder. That has not been confirmed.

I think you’re also making a “legal” play, when there is none. Unless there is an accident that is related to the inability of a driver to control the trailer.

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valhalla360 · 07-06-2018, 04:53

Quote:

Originally Posted by LoudMusic

What kind of crazy person does 80 towing a boat!?!?!

I know I've been passed by people towing when I was doing 75.

Sailmonkey · 07-06-2018, 05:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by valhalla360

I know I've been passed by people towing when I was doing 75.

I’ll freely admit to towing the right trailer with the right truck at 80.

valhalla360 · 07-06-2018, 05:10

Google tow ratings. There are online calculators. You can input the info for your truck and trailer and it will spit out the answer.

Don't forget to include the weight of the trailer and the items in the boat. Also don't forget to account for the items in the truck. Also don't forget the general assumption is an empty truck with a single 150lb drivers. If you take 3 buddies along, that could easily eat up 600lb of capacity. Your truck only has around a 1500lb cargo capacity so if you load it up with gear and people, then add 500-600lb on the hitch, you may be over the cargo capacity of the truck.

Just a ballpark but it looks like you are on the edge and will depend on the drive-train and suspension configuration that you have.

Keep in mind, even if you can pull it, you may not be able to carry it. There are actually several ratings you need to consider:
- Tow rating
- Hitch Weight
- Rear Axle Weight Rating
- GVWR
- GCVWR

**Adelie** · 07-06-2018, 06:00

If you have an automatic transmission get a transmission fluid cooler.

john61ct · 07-06-2018, 06:44

Also display trannie temp, and change the fluid to quality synthetic.

Best to get the actual total trailer weight and find a forum dedicated to your vehicle, specify the year, engine, tow package or not etc.

Crossing the Rockies is very different from on the flat, and ambient temps can make a difference.

Safer with a bigger truck for sure.

Colin A · 07-06-2018, 07:27

Depends on how the truck is equipped and how heavy you travel. In general with an automatic you want to stay out of overdrive in any hilly areas. Coolers are a good idea.

**a64pilot** · 07-06-2018, 08:46

My Son has a little Chevy Colorado with the 3.5 L I5.
It would do it easily, it’s not the truck, it’s the nut behind the wheel that determines safety.
I used to pull up to 25,000+ lbs behind my Dually, no mountains, no heavy traffic, exercise good judgement.

Dymaxion · 07-06-2018, 11:49

Time to make sure your brakes are 100% good too. My v6 Ford explorer was rated for 4400lbs towing but the V8 was 6200. Biggest aftermarket trans cooler I could fit was installed, new discs, pads and also checked suspension bushings etc etc. Got home without any probs towing 6250lbs. Plan way ahead, keep a good separation from vehicles in front regardless of speed. Don't be pressured into keeping up with the flow, folks will pass if they want to. Just make sure they have ample space in front of you to cut back in if they've mistimed things.

**Jim Cate** · 07-06-2018, 16:05

How times change! I used to tow my Catalina 22 with my '57 Chev station wagon, small block V8, OD tranny... and the trailer didn't have brakes. Did a lot of miles, albeit rather cautiously, no problems. This was in the early 70s, and mostly in California... one trip to Port Angeles and back. I did have scintered iron brake shoes, which really helped with brake fade.

It seems like I should have been locked up, or at least taken out behind the shed and spanked... yep, times have changed!

Jim

grecko · 19-07-2018, 18:47

The load range of the tires is also an important factor. For heavyduty use, E rated 10-ply tires are ideal. Michelin LTX M/S2 is a popular choice for towing but there are other less expensive options like Firestone tires and Kumho.

gjordan · 24-07-2018, 10:28

I am just preparing for a few hundred mile trip with a Dodge Dakota 3.7 V6 engine, 6 speed manual. The truck is light and gutless and a Catalina 22 will put it at its max tow weight. My prep is going completely thru the trailer brakes (hydraulic surge brakes) and I am just about to order new shocks and overload springs for the truck. I have towed it short distances without brakes and it was a really bad idea. I have towed much heavier trailers with my Ford F250 and I just make sure to not be in a hurry. Good brakes and not being in a hurry should get you thru. Just my2 cents worth. Grant.