Enough Truck ?

I have an unmolested aka stock 02 4 x 2 Prerunner 6cyl auto. Truck itself is in great condition and properly maintained. Truck has receiver hitch etc. but no tranny cooler which is something I'd surely look into.

We're looking into moving up in boat size in about a year. The particular boat we are interested in fully loaded up with fuel etc. would tip the scales at around 4500 to 4600 lbs. Trailer is a dual axle with brakes as mandated by Florida law. I've read through the towing bible and the tow rating is 5,000 and yes, I can do the math and understand I'd be "just under" the max rating. However, it doesn't mean that this is enough truck.

So how about some opinions? If it's enough truck, aside from adding a tranny cooler, what else would you suggest?

For those of you that think it is NOT enough truck and I respect that, why and what experiences have you had that make you say no?

If need be, we'll move up to a Tundra but I sure do like the Taco.

 

You'll be fine. Florida is flat and you're operating at sea level (higher oxygen density = more power).

 

Thanks for your input.

 

TTT any more thoughts ?

 

With the info given I would think it is ok as well. If you want to upgrade without getting too large, 2nd gen Tacoma can tow 6500lb.

 

i think you will be fine towing. take your time dont get in a hurry and you should be okay. i have pulled way more than the 1st gens were ever made for with my 4x4 6 cyl manual.

 

Thanks... sweet trucks and really don't want to have to upsize to a Tundra but will if need be.

 

Go slow man at first and see where your trucks at with your new boat and go from there that way you can truly be the judge Øn what you want/need to have to get the job done. I think you'd prob drag ass pretty good though.

 

You'll be perfectly fine. I would say my situation is more maxed out. The tow rating on the Tacoma is 6,000 lbs. I had a 19ft Wellcraft and fully loaded with gear and people and fuel was tipping the scales at just under 5,000 lbs. On top of that I live in Texas Hill country which is nothing but hills with about a 8*-12* degree incline. I am able to pull it no problem at all on the flats roads, but definitely the hills is where it gets sketchy, but since your in Florida you won't have that problem. As far as the transmission cooler, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND you get this done before you step up in boat size especially considering you'll need to use Engine Braking alot more with the added weight.