towing a 1975 20 SF

jim · #1 06-07-2013, 01:44 PM

First post here, hope it is the right spot. Have a 2004 Toyota Highlander, V6, AWD. Am considering towing my 1975 20 SF with it. Live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland so flat land. Tow rating is 3,500 lbs. I calculate the boat loaded with motor to be 2800 lbs. Any thoughts or experience towing with one of these?
Thx, Jim

DonV · #2 06-07-2013, 02:01 PM

Question #1, does the trailer have brakes?? Wait, wait let me do this again....does the trailer have working brakes?

uncleboo · #3 06-07-2013, 02:14 PM

You should be able to pull it, but, can you stop it?

rayhawk · #4 06-07-2013, 04:27 PM

How heavy is that vehicle? I believe the new highlanders are car based suv's, and with AWD are pretty heavy I would imagine. The 3500 lb limit is partially based on not putting too much strain on the relatively light duty (FWD based) drivetrain, especially the transmission.

Now if that is before they switched to the car based suv's then you are in better shape.

WillyC · #5 06-08-2013, 10:28 AM

Including the trailer you will likely be right at the 3500 lbs rated limit of that vehicle.

mrobertson · #6 06-08-2013, 10:58 AM

3500 tow capacity is going to be cutting it close. Personally I'd probably do it but I wouldn't tow it very far.

jim · #7 06-08-2013, 12:37 PM

Thx, Guys. The trailer is new so brakes work, LOL. The Highlander is the older stye and not car based. I am torn on this one but think I am going to go and trade it in on a Tacoma 4x4. It has a 6,000 lb towing cap. and that just makes me feel better. I really appreciate everyone's thoughts.
Jim

Mikem8560 · #8 06-08-2013, 04:52 PM

a good reason for a new truck

NoBones · #9 06-08-2013, 09:48 PM

Towing is one thing...
Stopping is another!!

I have seen all kinds of two door specks towing 25ft plus boats
while on I-95..

Yeah, CJ7's with 25ft boats with twins on the back....

1/2 ton IMO with a 20SF.

Better safe then sorry..

gofastsandman · #10 06-08-2013, 11:08 PM

Great points as always here. I have a weenie gmc sonoma 2wd rigged hd factory .
6,000 or so they say. Trans and oil cooler. G80 Eaton 3.42 electronic full locker under 10 mph. I need a soul on the bumper at low tide sometimes with my 20.

I drive slow n low locally. I do not have a great record on the highway, but am getting better within reason. Understanding is a big part of that.

Cheers,
GFS