Towing Capacity

So I've pretty much decided on getting a 1st gen Tacoma. Probably an extended cab v6 4x4.

One of my requirements is a towing capacity of at least 4000 lbs for skidding large logs (building log cabin).

Does anyone have any experience with this and what is the comfortable towing capacity of the Tacoma and does the 4x4 change the capacity?

 

I believe that the v6 is rated at 5000 lbs towing capacity and the 4cyl is 3500 lbs towing capacity if I'm not mistaken. I have no experience towing with a v6 though.

If you want to tow much weight with it I would recommend to find a truck with the lowest factory gearing, probably 4.10 for the v6. I know some of the 4cyl came with 4.30's but I don't think any of the v6 models ever got 4.30's though.

 

Also check into trailer brakes; I am pretty sure the Tacoma requires that even with low trailer weights, although I don't use them with my ~ 1700-pound rig.

 

The towing capacity has a lot to do with the brakes and the suspension, not just motor power and drivetrain. Trailer brakes and an equalizer hitch will help a lot. Better rear leaf springs are important too; the stock ones are soft.

 

For skidding logs, you'll want the biggest, heaviest, and torquiest truck possible. Unfortunately that won't be a taco.

A tractor would work much better yet.

 

I tow a Wellcraft boat with a Roadmaster trailer, gear, 3 people, and full fuel. Total weight comes out to 5,800 lbs and it pulls fine as long as its on a flat road. Its the steep hills where that kind of weight gets sketchy. Also i would HIGHLY recommend you get a transmission cooler. Its cheap insurance.

If i had to do it again though for this kind of weight, I would opt for something like a Tundra.

 

4lo and you should be able to drag logs all over the place, I've done it with some smaller trees in my 5 lug with no real issue

Just don't forget to put trailer brakes on your logs