1. Welcome to Tacoma World!

    You are currently viewing as a guest! To get full-access, you need to register for a FREE account.

    As a registered member, you’ll be able to:
    • Participate in all Tacoma discussion topics
    • Communicate privately with other Tacoma owners from around the world
    • Post your own photos in our Members Gallery
    • Access all special features of the site

Airstreamers out there!?

Discussion in 'Towing' started by Suffield Miller, Feb 16, 2014.

  1. Feb 16, 2014 at 8:48 AM
    #1
    Suffield Miller

    Suffield Miller [OP] If your not driving a Tacoma...WHY?

    Joined:
    Feb 11, 2014
    Member:
    #122826
    Messages:
    120
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Miller
    just outside The Notch
    Vehicle:
    SR5 V6, 6spd manual, 4WD, DBL Cab spruce mica
    Tow package, alloys...straight up Tacoma
    Waiting for my '14 double cab to come to Ct from factory in Tx...

    Anyone pulling an Airstream with their Tacoma's out west, or northeast?

    I really want to hear how she handles the Mt roads etc...

    Its my folks '72 renovated/refurbished 21/23 foot Airstream.
    My old man insists I need his V8 Suburban to haul her comfortably.
    My 2000 TRD would pull anything till toyota bought her back because of her "rare" frame corrosion.
     
  2. Feb 16, 2014 at 4:46 PM
    #2
    Gregman

    Gregman Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    Member:
    #29166
    Messages:
    619
    Gender:
    Male
    Freddy Beach, NB
    Vehicle:
    05 DC LB 4x4 SR5
    Honestly, your pops is probably right. Your Tacoma will do it but it won't like it very much. Those old Airstreams are heavy. Get some Firestone RideRite air bags for your rear suspension.
     
  3. Mar 8, 2014 at 8:05 PM
    #3
    ttubb

    ttubb Member

    Joined:
    May 2, 2013
    Member:
    #103356
    Messages:
    24
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Terry
    Tucson/Crested Butte
    Vehicle:
    Tacoma TRD Off Road 4WD
    Yep. 2013 Tacoma and 22' Airstream.

    I have an auto and tow in 4th gear. I installed Firestone RideRites but only use about 15psi in them. I did install an additional trans cooler and ScanGuage as some long climbs in hot temps (Arizona) can push the trans temp up but I have never had the OH light come on (that is at 305 degrees) which I think is too hot. Use an equalizer hitch system too.

    It is a bit slow going up the hills, but the trade off is 22mpg when not towing (about 12 towing). I usually only run about 65 on the highway.

    You will be ok. Handles well. Make certain you have the tow package on your Taco.

    22AS 2003.jpg
     
    Last edited: Mar 8, 2014
  4. Mar 9, 2014 at 9:46 AM
    #4
    Suffield Miller

    Suffield Miller [OP] If your not driving a Tacoma...WHY?

    Joined:
    Feb 11, 2014
    Member:
    #122826
    Messages:
    120
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Miller
    just outside The Notch
    Vehicle:
    SR5 V6, 6spd manual, 4WD, DBL Cab spruce mica
    Tow package, alloys...straight up Tacoma
    Thank You for the valuable information!

    Your Rig looks Awesome! I love the airstream baby! What year and how is it configured?
    Very Sweet Rig, surely the envy of all the airstreamers who are pulling with there duellies, 3/4 ton chevys and fords, getting the same places in same comfort with a great unobtrusive truck to go exploring in!
    Kudos!
     
  5. Mar 9, 2014 at 5:01 PM
    #5
    ttubb

    ttubb Member

    Joined:
    May 2, 2013
    Member:
    #103356
    Messages:
    24
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Terry
    Tucson/Crested Butte
    Vehicle:
    Tacoma TRD Off Road 4WD
    I have a 2003 International AS. It has a GVWR of 5300#. I installed Firestone 2407 RideRites but I did tow without them for a while and as I said I only use about 15psi which just smooths some of the rougher roads. Not really needed if you use an equalizer hitch. In fact, the picture I posted is prior to installation and it sets dead level. (click on the picture to enlarge).

    I see from your sig you have a manual six speed so you can disregard the addtional trans radiator. You will have no problems. I have had no overheating problems in 112 degree temps on long uphill tows. Just use a lower gear and keep the engine speed up. Terry

    Additional thoughts - drive at least 500 miles before towing and be certain to change your rear diff fluid after about 2500 miles. Use full synthetic (I use Redline) and strictly stay with the recommended viscosity (hard to find but Redline has it). I have had Tacomas and an FJ Cruiser (same diff and engine) and this is important as it is a bit of a weak area. T
     
    Last edited: Mar 9, 2014

Products Discussed in

To Top