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Need Advice on Flat Towing A Jeep

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by jboudreaux1965, May 6, 2025 at 8:35 AM.

  1. May 6, 2025 at 8:35 AM
    #1
    jboudreaux1965

    jboudreaux1965 [OP] Ragin Cajun Fan

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    I have a 2 door jeep wrangler, pretty much stock that I will be flat towing behind my Tacoma on the interstate. What settings should I use on the Tacoma? ETC? It is an auto transmission but should I shift it manually, if so what gear should I use on the interstate?
     
  2. May 6, 2025 at 8:39 AM
    #2
    2021SR5V64WD

    2021SR5V64WD Well-Known Member

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    I typically tow my little teardrop starting in S4 and ETC modes.

    Depending on terrain I might have to drop into S3 ( inclines etc ) but on nice flat straight-aways S4 and ETC seem fine.

    Take it easy and expect 16 MPG.
     
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  3. May 6, 2025 at 8:43 AM
    #3
    TA2016

    TA2016 Well-Known Member

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    I would definitely use ECT. If you’ve driven a manual before, you will know when to go into S-mode and down shift.
     
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  4. May 6, 2025 at 8:55 AM
    #4
    TA2016

    TA2016 Well-Known Member

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    jboudreaux1965[OP] and Chew like this.
  5. May 6, 2025 at 9:12 AM
    #5
    Gen3TacomaOBX

    Gen3TacomaOBX Well-Known Member

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    Bilstein 6112 front / 5100 rear (extended) shocks, Headstrong AAL, Firestone airbags, 4.88 gears, OME Carrier bearing drop kit, Aluminum 1/4" skids (engine to transfer). Custom sliders (1.75" HREW tube w/ 3/16" base plates). Custom front bumper and high clearance rear bumper (1/4" steel plate, 1.75" tube.) Apex 5500 winch w/synthetic line (36lbs) and required accessories for an underpowered winch (snatch blocks and extra line.) Tekonsha P3 brake controller, remote start, any-time-backup camera w/ front facing camera, Leer 100R shell (w/e-track single slot tie-down mounts for removable Yakima EasyTop.) Cat shields by CaliRaised. Husky liners, window tint, heated seat (passenger only.) Relentless bed rail brackets with QuickFists (shovel/axe/fire extinguisher.) Hondo Garage Un-holey vent mount. Anytime rear with front facing camera. Billet front seat risers. Viair 88p. 265/75r16 Goodyear Ultra-terrain tires.
    Braking is a bigger issue. Many states require some sort of braking system if the toad weighs >3000 lbs.
     
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  6. May 6, 2025 at 9:24 AM
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    rndsommer40

    rndsommer40 Well-Known Member

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    I put a patriot brake box in the jeep and use a good set of non binding roadmaster tow bars. Cheap magnetic lights for brakes and directionals
     
  7. May 6, 2025 at 10:47 AM
    #7
    Chew

    Chew Not so well known user

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    I would go no higher than S4 and stay out of the overdrive speeds. Braking is also a concern.
    Bluetooth dongles and the app are cheap, so you can monitor transmission temps, as added insurance, but not necessary. I would change trans and differential fluid more often,,, how often is up to you.
     
  8. May 6, 2025 at 12:06 PM
    #8
    jboudreaux1965

    jboudreaux1965 [OP] Ragin Cajun Fan

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    I have a scan gauge 3 so i monitor everything alteady

    2025-05-06-14-04-57-418.jpg
     
  9. May 6, 2025 at 12:09 PM
    #9
    jboudreaux1965

    jboudreaux1965 [OP] Ragin Cajun Fan

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    Thanks for all the info guys! I noticed just driving on local roads braking is an issue.
    Planning to upgrade to larger btakes like i fid on my 2nd gen. You have a link to that Liberty brake box?
     
  10. May 6, 2025 at 12:14 PM
    #10
    jboudreaux1965

    jboudreaux1965 [OP] Ragin Cajun Fan

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    Looks like it weighs about 3500lbs
     
  11. May 6, 2025 at 12:19 PM
    #11
    SBaldrick

    SBaldrick Member

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    We should probably refrain from passing on judgment on any significant others and their size.
     
  12. May 6, 2025 at 12:27 PM
    #12
    gudujarlson

    gudujarlson Well-Known Member

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    Bigger brakes will not reduce your stopping distance, but they might reduce the chance of overheating during long descents.

    You need to use a device that allows you to use the brakes on the jeep, otherwise this is a non-starter idea.

    I can elaborate the reasons if you like.
     
    Last edited: May 6, 2025 at 12:33 PM
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  13. May 6, 2025 at 6:02 PM
    #13
    abodyjoe

    abodyjoe Well-Known Member

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