4 cylinder towing non folding travel trailer

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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

Bill

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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!

 

Sorry for bringing back an old thread but I was wondering if there are others that can share their experiences towing a 16 vs 13 Scamp with a 2.7L.

Based on what I've read here and the rv forums, it's doable but need to be a little more mindful on what you're bringing (passengers, gear, etc.) and hills will be a challenge.

Anyone regret getting a 16?

 

My 2.7 manual pulls a 2000 plus lb pop up without issue. I think a manual transmission would be better but I doubt you will have issues. You most certainly won't win any races while pulling. Keep in mind that you will need to add a tow package to any 4 cyl truck you buy. Which means a hitch and wiring plus a brake controller which could add another $500 to the expense of the truck. Never mind that if it's an automatic transmission it will also need a trans cooler. Good luck.

 

That's helpful. Some additional information on my truck:
Manual transmission with hitch and wiring (Need to add a brake controller)

i feel that the 16 should be manageable - assuming 2200 lbs dry and assuming a self imposed max limit of 2975 lbs (feedback from others is to stay under 85% of 3500), that gives 775 lbs buffer towards water, propane, clothes and potentially another passenger.

 

I had to smile at the comment about the person traveling 10 miles under the speed limit. It may be a bit off topic, but ST tires (to my knowledge) are only rated for 65mph. My 2015 2.7 5sp will pull my 2200lb (loaded) cargo trailer down the interstate at 75 to 80 easily, but I am not doing it. It amazes me how many pull trailers at 80+ mph down the road without a care about tire ratings.

 

Adding a brake controller isn't as easy on these as it isn't plug and play like on the trucks that come with the tow package. Just something else to be aware of. The manual tranny will definitely help you. Good luck.

 

I have the 2.7L auto. I don't think I have ever been above 70mph with a trailer, much less 70+mph without one. I always get a kick out of guys in Texas who complain about MPG when they try to drive the speed limit of 75+mph . Our trucks are utility tools not high speed transportation.

 

Towed this with mine 10 times this summer. Its not fun but it does the job fine

 

Those id10Ts towing things at 75+mph are the reason why we have sucky tow ratings in north america. Don't "get a kick" out of it, give them a piece of your mind.