Towing/Payload questions on '98 2.4L 4 cylinder

HI everyone,

I have a 1998 Taco 2.4 liter with 4 cylinder engine, manual transmission. Awesome truck I've only had to do routine maintenance on since buying about five years ago.
Has about 168K on the clock.

I am a builder and have used it to haul some pretty heavy lumber loads, but no more than 20 miles or so. I currently have an aluminum cap on there that's probably under 200 pounds, but I saw my fuel economy go from close to 30mpg without it, to more like low to mid 20s with it.

My latest plan is to build a Gypsy Vardo style camper on the bed of this truck, with an overcab sleeping area. I believe I can build it well under 1,000 pounds. But it will add a lot of wind resistance, I imagine. I would do my best to make the front of it aerodynamic, but am no engineer.
What is the truck designed to carry? Is this a horrible plan that will kill my trans/clutch?

I would design this camper to be removable, and install it only on occasional camping trips.

I also would very much like to be able to to tow a trailer. I would use it for construction debris, leaves, furniture moving, etc... I'm looking into buying an aluminum trailer somewhere in the 6X10' range. I would like to hear from owners of the 2.4 1st gen of their towing experience.

Thank you!
Ben

 

While you might build the camper under 1000 pounds if it is only you camping only another couple hundred pounds add more people the weight goes up fast

Have you thought Tow behind Camper ??

As to the clutch it depends on your driving skills

As far as towing can`t say my 3.4 does alright with light loads under 2000 pounds

Enjoy your good mileage mine is always around 10 to 12 mpg