Prep a 1996 4 cyl 4x4 to pull a pod or pop up or small scampcamper

Hello, first time here and needing advice, as I would like to put my beloved Taco into a new role. I have a Leer shell on it but can no longer contort my old body into it for camping. I believe the truck’s towing capacity is 1200 lbs. What can I have a mechanic do to reinforce the chassis so I can pull something that I can stand up in. The truck is a 5 speed manual. Also, I dont know what kind of hitch to put on it. Has anyone been in this situation, and found a good lightweight camper? Thank you.

 

You'll love having the additional space and comfort of a travel trailer. I'd go for a Class III hitch with 2" receiver.. Reese is a good brand. Amazon lists many for ~$150. Perhaps someone will come along that's recently purchased and provide you with a link or model number. You'll want to pay attention to tongue weight (the downward weight that the trailer applies to your hitch.) Just so your patient and don't ask your truck to accelerate too quickly you shouldn't have any problems towing a smaller popup or 13' fiberglass camper (if empty, not loaded with water and gear.) [Unless you're trying to tow in the mountains.. if that's the case you want to stay under the specified towing capacity of the truck.] If you wait for just the right used camper deal then you should be able to purchase/use/sell without a depreciation hit. Good luck and welcome to TW. Have a pic of your truck?

 

I'm not a 1st generation expert so hopefully someone else will tune in soon but I though the 1st gen towing capacity was much higher than ~3500? Any help from the gurus?

Additionally you might want to consider adding Firestone Ride-Rite airbags if your truck sags too much in the rear with your trailer hooked up.

 

Thanks that’s good advice. I live in the mountains of se Idaho and my little truck has been wonderful going up steep roads downshifting to 4th. In the snow going up my steep gravel road I get to use the super low, which I imagine might come in handy pulling a camper uphill. I bought this truck new in 96 and have driven it on the lava rocks at Wapi Flows and obscure, unmaintained forest service roads. 218,000 mi so I figure it’s good for another 100,000 at least. Will post a pic soon.

 

Welcome aboard

 

The towing capacity of the I4’s is 3,500 pounds and the v6 5,500 pounds. What do you have?

 

If you have the money, then grab a kimbo:

https://www.kimboliving.com/

Super light weight and makes a great camper.