3rd Gen Towing Story / Recap

Accompanied my dad today to pick up an Alfa Romeo that he wanted to purchase. Despite having only owned my 3rd gen for a few months, my dad believed it was capable of handling the task. I, however, had my doubts.

To prepare for the journey, I diligently scoured through forums and watched videos. The only available car trailer was a dual axle equipment trailer. Although the Alfa Romeo was relatively light, we had to travel a lengthy 300 miles on the busy I4 through Orlando. My estimate placed the weight at around 4,500 - 5,000 pounds.

Being someone who struggles to say "no," I reluctantly agreed, filled the tank and we embarked on our adventure. Surprisingly, it didn't take long for me to feel at ease. Opting for the standard transmission mode, I kept it in 4th gear throughout the journey.

The engine maintained a comfortable 3,000 RPM while cruising at speeds of 70-75 mph, and I never once felt that the truck was underpowered.

However, if I were to tow more frequently, it would be wise to invest in better rear shocks and brakes for added safety and performance.

All in all, it turned out to be a memorable trip with my dad, and my Taco performed admirably.

Cheers,

Joe

 

You found out the same thing I did...it's like using a spoon to dig a hole versus a shovel. These trucks will get the job done but if you're going to be doing it often you will want something more appropriate .

 

Glad it went well. Congratulations on centering the Alfa on the trailer to where you had adequate tongue weight but not too much (squatting the truck and the trailer running “downhill”. I’m assuming you had brakes on the trailer and a brake controller installed on your Tacoma. If not, you were VERY lucky no one stopped short in front of you. Not criticizing at all, please don’t take offense. I pointed that out more for others who may not realize how much more stopping power a load like that takes and what a wonderful addition a brake controller is. Plan to add a RedArc to mine soon.

I worked in AG sales for a JD dealer and then Kubota. I’ve given my 10 minute lesson on trailer loading and load binding several hundred times. It’s nice to see people doing it right. There are death traps running down every highway in the US every day. Nice looking Alfa (Tacoma too).

is that the same model Dustin Hoffman drive in The Graduate?

 

@rkd1119 You are exactly right about about the brake power. My co-pilot had to remind me a few times to keep a safe distance.

This Alfa is a 78', whereas Dustin's was a 67'. Both great cars, and a blast to run through the gearbox.

 

Sumo springs were one of the first upgrades I did to my truck. Money well spent. Upgrading brakes has always been on my list, but didn't do it until 70k miles had gone by.

 

Nicely done. One comment: rear springs & shocks should be what you consider. The upgraded springs (or helpers if you go that route) will handle the heavy, static load of the trailer and then your upgraded shocks will help with the dynamic load whilst driving. I have upgraded to heavy dakars and love them (part of the OME-005 heavy kit). I hear good things about Dobinsons kits as well.

Did you have a brake controller for the trailer? By the way: slick little alpha. Reminds me of the movie Fletch.

 

@mic_sierra I did not have a brake controller. There was a little engine break in 4th gear and then I did my best to keep a safe distance.

Good call on the springs and shocks. When the dealership tires wear out I have some suspension and tire plans

 

How was your fuel mileage?

 

@RustyGreen 11mpg

 

No trailer brakes was a bad idea,,, glad you guys made it alright.

 

Although not as heavy, my camper has brakes and wow does it make towing more controlled and easier overall. Granted my rpod 173t with gear and all is around 3500 lb, I am glad it has brakes.