Towing Question

I’ve got a 2020 SR V6 and the only towing I’ll be doing is my boat down to the river and back. Round trip maybe 10 miles max.

Should I be flipping into 4wd when I’m towing or is the ETC power button sufficient?

Sorry I’m new to all this ‍

 

No!

Only use 4x4 in slippery conditions

 

How big is your boat (weight)? Not that it impacts the 4x4 answer though.

 

Just curious, what's the thought process on putting it in 4wd to tow?

 

Tow with the shifter in S-Mode and in 5 or 4 depending on speed. Use the ECT button. Only engage 4x4 if extra traction is required on the ramp. And disengage it as soon as possible. Don't make any turns with 4x4 engaged unless you are on loose packed gravel or sand. Never on pavement.

 

You could use 4wd on the ramp if it’s slick but disengage it before turning or it will bind up.

 

Speedfreak beat me to it but I agree with everything he said... Especially going from "D" to "S" with the shifter to keep the trans out of overdrive when towing... assuming you have an auto...

 

Oh, and read the manual.

 

Wtf is a manual?

 

I dunno- it’s a 16’ V bottom with a 40 horse motor so not huge...

 

More power? Like I said I’m new!

 

No turning in 4wd? How am I supposed to use my 4-hi in the Minnesota winters!?

 

You'll be fine. Others have already posted the necessary details on 4x4, ECT, and S-mode. If towing is new to you, practice at Walmart before you hit the ramp.... you don't want to end up on somebody's boat-ramp compilation youtube channel. If towing's not new to you, have at it.

 

The transfer case splits power 50/50 (front and rear wheels) , the power is the same but you get better traction on the boat ramp for example.

 

If you are on snow, it allows for slippage, perfectly fine.

 

4x4 not to be used on surfaces with solid traction unless driving in a substantially straight line. If you're in the snow without clear spots on the roads, probably okay.

 

Total newb- I appreciate the assistance!

 

Tacoma doesn't have a center diff that allows speed difference between front and rear axles during cornering in a 4WD mode. Slippery surface (e.g. during Minnesota winters) allows a tire to slip to account for the speed difference. On high-grip surface where a tire can't slip, the speed difference causes binding in the drivetrain which may cause a weak link to be overstressed or overloaded.

 

This post illustrates that this is a troll thread.

 

Why would 4wd give more power?