Towing Power

[GeorgiaBoy]

I had a 2004 Toyota Tacoma crew cab (V6, 4-door).  Just 10 months old, great little truck, but just over 180hp and towing capacity of 3500lbs - we were struggling when pulling the new Fleetwood Resolute.  Especially with camper loaded and truck bed loaded with 2 ice-packed coolers, firewood, bikes, wife's make-up bag, etc.

"Turn off the A/C honey ... we're going uphill!"

Like a scene right out of one of Tim Allen's Home Improvements episodes, I was on the prowl for more power.  Over the weekend I sold my old truck (if you could call it that) and got a new 2005 Tacoma crew cab (V6, 4-door, SP2).  Aside from the vast improvements inside the truck (roomier cab, classier dash, etc), this truck comes with 245hp and towing capacity of 6500lbs.

Now, before i get that barage of emails about breaking in a new truck, i know the manual suggests waiting until at least 500 miles before towing.  But give a guy a new toy and, well, he must play!  Just to see if i would notice any improvement in towing, i hooked up the PU and took it for a quick spin.

WOW!  What a difference!!  I read a lot here about people suggesting that potential PU owners keep an eye on towing capacity - now I know why.

Here's to no more fears of blowing a rod as I trek up the N. Georgia Mountains this Fall.

Added note:  6-week old camper / 2 camping trips / 8 days total / no rain!!
(did i just jinx myself?)

[Kelly]

Added note:  6-week old camper / 2 camping trips / 8 days total / no rain!!
(did i just jinx myself?)

Yep  

... and Congratulations on the new TV ...

[tlhdoc]

Congratulations on the new TV.  I understand what you are saying about the towing capacity being so important.  I towed with 2 different mini vans before going with the Explorer.  The Explorer is a much more stable tow vehicle.

[rich88giants]

I just had a similar experience.  I was towing our resolute over the north shore of lake superior (very long, steep hills) with our pontiac montana.  After watching the engine temp redline several times, along with the RPMs, I got home and within 2 days had a new GMC Sierra with the towing package in the driveway.   Definitely the way to go.
Now, if we decide to get a bigger trailer, we're good to go!