When looking for a tow vehicle, the biggest mistake is getting something too light and under powered.
So while it is possible to tow with a small truck, it is safer and more enjoyable to tow with a heavier vehicle that has more towing capacity than you think you'll need.
Your tow vehicle should have a factory tow package which includes a transmission cooler, a larger radiator, and heavier springs and brakes.
The tow vehicle should weigh more than the fully loaded trailer. Once you purchase the tow vehicle, you'll want to add a trailer braking system, and a trailer sway hitch.
Right now, the most affordable tow vehicles will be older SUVs like Tahoes, 4Runners, Ford Expeditions, and full sized V8 powered pickup trucks.
You can find these for under $10,000.
Examples:
http://sarasota.craigslist.org/cto/4564759046.html
http://sarasota.craigslist.org/cto/4563800723.html
Egg camper
The heavier truck will also likely have a longer wheelbase that will improve stability.
If you're considering a 4Runner, a V-8 was offered through the 2008 model year and in the Limited version an optional self-leveling rear air suspension. I had one that easily towed a 4,000 lb. boat/trailer combination over 5,000' mountain passes.
Be sure to inspect the truck on a lift. That way you can carefully check rear brakes and differential fluid. I once was about to buy a used Land Cruiser that the owner said was used for towing his boat to the ocean. An inspection showed seaweed tangled in the brakes and driveshaft plus seawater in the differential. I passed on that one.
So while it is possible to tow with a small truck, it is safer and more enjoyable to tow with a heavier vehicle that has more towing capacity than you think you'll need.
Your tow vehicle should have a factory tow package which includes a transmission cooler, a larger radiator, and heavier springs and brakes.
The tow vehicle should weigh more than the fully loaded trailer. Once you purchase the tow vehicle, you'll want to add a trailer braking system, and a trailer sway hitch.
Right now, the most affordable tow vehicles will be older SUVs like Tahoes, 4Runners, Ford Expeditions, and full sized V8 powered pickup trucks.
You can find these for under $10,000.
Examples:
http://sarasota.craigslist.org/cto/4564759046.html
http://sarasota.craigslist.org/cto/4563800723.html
Egg camper
The heavier truck will also likely have a longer wheelbase that will improve stability.
If you're considering a 4Runner, a V-8 was offered through the 2008 model year and in the Limited version an optional self-leveling rear air suspension. I had one that easily towed a 4,000 lb. boat/trailer combination over 5,000' mountain passes.
Be sure to inspect the truck on a lift. That way you can carefully check rear brakes and differential fluid. I once was about to buy a used Land Cruiser that the owner said was used for towing his boat to the ocean. An inspection showed seaweed tangled in the brakes and driveshaft plus seawater in the differential. I passed on that one.
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