Dumb question about pulling a trailer

The 2GR is designed to rev. That's why it's in the Lexus RC350 and Lotus Emira. You can hammer it at redline all day. Higher revs mean the radiator fan and water pump spin faster, which is better for cooling.

 

I would stay in 4th and keep the speed down to start. If you can't find a sweet spot or need to go faster, try 5th.

Disclaimer: I don't like to overdrive while hauling anything in any trailer, no matter the vehicle.

 

Its just a little utility trailer lol

 

With a trailer that light you can probably get by in 6th gear on fairly level ground. I'd not run an auto in 6th gear though and be prepared to downshift more often with a manual. Give it a try, use your judgement and if it feel like the engine is struggling downshift. You'll actually get better fuel mileage in lower gears when towing as well as keep the engine and automatic transmissions cooler.

 

I agree. Everyone is overthinking this.

 

Never mind. Drive fast and take chances.

You’ll be fine. Confidence is a big part of it.

Bravely press on!

 

A Corolla could pull that...

 

Not an urban legend -- it is all about leverage.

@Longbow25
The issue with towing in overdrive isn't about the engines ability to pull in those gears, it is about the side load on the gears in the transmission.

As the overdrive is speeding up the output shaft faster than the input shaft you are getting something for "free" if you will -- of course nothing is truly free. The mechanical advantage of that speed up is the issue, the transmission isn't as strong in overdrive as in the 1:1 ratio 4th gear.


Although not for our 6 speed the photos below illustrate the power flow in 4th gear and overdrive.

4th gear, direct drive, 1:1 ratio, see how the power flow is straight thru the main gearset = strong.




Overdrive gear, power flow through 4 gears and the countershaft = side load, the gears are trying to force themselves apart.



Obviously an automatic is built differently than a manual but the issue is the same, the overdrive section isn't as strong as the 1:1 ratio 4th gear section.


This said under light loads (like the OPs 5X8 trailer) the (manual transmission) overdrive gears can be used, one just needs to be more mindful and avoid lugging the engine.

 

I did not expect this many replies, let alone in-depth opinions - thanks all, I'll let everyone know if I blow my trans up lol

 

We all started at the beginning and some of us paid a very high price for our life lessons.
Ask questions, read carefully and you won't have to.

 

Lots of answers talked about automatic transmissions but since you have a manual transmission just drive it like you normally would. No problems. Enjoy.

 

Okay, the verdict is.. had to shift into fifth on some big hills but was otherwise unnoticeable. Thanks all!

 

Also got into some serious offroading for the first time with this truck. I know lots of guys have better setups but I was super impressed with the OEM Fox Suspension

 

Even for manual transmissions the owner's manual stated to not use 6th gear when towing. Although pretty sure some here won't find 6th gear an issue with them especially with lighter loads.

Me personally, I found 5th gear perfect for towing at highway speeds (cruising, not accelerating, which is when I'll use 3rd/4th gear)

 

Those quotes from the owner’s manual refer to engine braking, not towing. Engine braking is used to slow the truck on long descents to help prevent the brakes from overheating.

 

Pretty sure the Owners Manual says when towing not to use 6th gear.

 

Not true. Re-read it carefully and read a newer one where they clarified it.

 

Yep just checked it, you are right it says alternator charging and engine braking.