4 cylinder towing non folding travel trailer

[rmg]

Hi Folks,

I'm getting ready to buy my first tacoma. I'm looking for a tow vehicle. I currently own a 13 foot scamp (egg shaped camper), and am looking to upgrade to a 16 foot scamp. It weights in the vicinity of 2500 pounds, loaded. (depends on how much stuff inside, definitely less than 3000). I found a good deal on a used tacoma, but it's 4 cylinder. I've read the previous posts on towing, and want feedback on whether it'd be ok to tow with a 4 cylinder, or it's really important to get a 6 cylinder. I can't seem to find a used tacoma with a tow package already installed. I'm looking for an automatic, and it looks like I would have to install a transmission cooler, and extra shocks???

advice would be greatly appreciated.

thanks,
ruth

[sriley727]

Tranny cooler, yes. Extra shocks, no, though some leaf spring helpers would be useful.

A 4 cylinder will pull that weight no problem. A 6 cylinder will just pull it easier. Your choice depends on what kind of gas mileage and passing power you want or are willing to live with.

[06dak]

What year taco are you buying? One of the newer ones will tow much better than the older ones, I'd make sure to get one with the 2.7 (2001 and up I think?)

Also, yes, get a cooler for that auto. No Tacoma came with a 4cyl tow package from the factory.

[rmg]

I'm looking at a used 2.9 liter 2wd 4 cylinder tacoma. I'm hoping to get an upgraded travel trailer, a newer scamp or casita. currently have a 13 foot scamp and tow with a honda element. Since I camp with 6 dogs, need a little more room in it. It gets a little dog crowded.
thanks,
ruth

[bcsnave]

It will tow it fine. I have a 15 side dineete w/o a bath. I do have a manual trans though

Bill

[rmg]

which is a better deal: 2006 plain automatic taco 4 cylinder 2.9 L with 10,000 miles for $11,500 or a 2003 double cab v6 for $16,000 with 30,000 miles??

can't decide which one... lean towards the lower price, lower mileage.....

ruth

[Soundwave]

I tow a 1100lbs folding tent trailer with my 2.7L 4 cylinder 4x4 with no problems. But I dont know how well it would do with anything heavier than that? I think the truck itself will handle the weight of a 2500-3000lbs trailer, but it may be a bit sluggish on hills. Especially with an automatic. I prefer the 5 speed manual so you can work the low gears on demand.

[rmg]

I currently have a manual, but my significant other refuses to learn how to drive a manual. So automatic is a must for us. I understand the manual is better, but he won't learn to drive it.

ruth

[sriley727]

Originally Posted by rmg

I currently have a manual, but my significant other refuses to learn how to drive a manual. So automatic is a must for us. I understand the manual is better, but he won't learn to drive it.

ruth

Inform your husband I've revoked his man card. Every man should learn how to drive a stick, especially if your wife knows how to.

[jeremiekc]

Have you ever seen those trucks pulling the trailers that go about 10 miles an hour under the speed limit? Yes a 2.7L will handle the weight just fine and probably tow it just fine but at a cost. Best idea is to spend the extra money and buy something with more power in order to pull it at highway speed.

[Isthatahemi]

Originally Posted by rmg

which is a better deal: 2006 plain automatic taco 4 cylinder 2.9 L

There is no 2.9L 4 cyl. Anyhow, if the truck is rated for it, it will tow it. My experience says that if you live or drive in steeper hills or mountains, definatly get the V6. If where you live and travel is pretty flat, get the I4. You will have to beat on it a little at higher speeds.
It really comes down to how hard you are comfortable with pushing the engine.

[amadorj]

I've got a 1999 PreRunner 2.7L Auto with some mods (Doug Thorley Headers, Jardine CATBACK Exhaust, Bilsteins, and Transmission Cooler) pulling a Casita 17' LD. I'm at 5000 elevation (New Mexico) but overall the combination seems to work for me. Of course I try to not carry a full load of water (almost empty tanks) and do not use the OD when towing which drops the gas mileage which is to be expected. Overall I'm pleased with the combo. Only additions will be to add Firestone air bags (doing now) and possibly a LC Supercharger. Good luck!