Looking for suggestions. I'm pulling a 944 on a trailex. I figure max weight with all kinds of extra junk will be 5500 lbs. The wife does not want a pick-up. Any leads or suggestions would be appreciated.

Don

 

Hey Don,

I use a full size cargo van. You could get a full size conversion van: plenty of room inside for all kinds of stuff, comfy chairs, heat/ac for chillin' at the track, dvd player, etc., all the comforts of home. My Chevy 3500 6.0 liter pulls my trailer with no problems.

Jim

 

I bought a 2002 Chevy tahoe full options (Including tow package) 55K miles for 17K in San Diego.
Love it so far.

 

I tow with a 05 Toyota 4-Runner V8. My wife would not allow me to get a full sized pickup. It's done well so far, pulling a 18' TPD enclosed trailer and 911SC.

 

I have used the Jeep Laredo for years--3 were V8's one was V6. They've come a long way in fit and finish...and for the price and value.

 

I know you said no pickups but my Ridgeline is amazing. It is NOTHING like an F150 or other truck. Rides, feels, and is quite as a car but with pickup utility. My GF hates trucks and loves my Ridgeline.

 

The conversion van idea is a good one.

In Rochester I should think a 4x4 SUV would be well received.

 

Grand Cherokee. Tows 6500 and even with the regular V8 has no issues hauling 6000 lbs of car/trailer/tires from VA to Watkins Glen which is a lot of mountain driving. Lots of good low milage 2002/2003 models out there for $15k if you shop around.

 

I have an '03 Ford Expedition Dog Hauler and Tow Vehicle. Not one warrenty problem since new, at 51k miles now.

 

How bout the new xterra. 260+ horses and a six speed for less than 20K.
Jack

 

Just curious, why are so many wifes against pickups?

 

I'm also curious about that. When I met my wife she had a Dodge 4x4 pickup (owned a gourmet catering bus., always marry the Chef!), and thinks I should get one again soon.

 

Mine was all for a full-size, 4 door (mine is ext. cab) PU as I am the "school bus" for my two step-daughters and I had some NASTY experiences towing my enclosed V-Nose with an undersized/marginal set-up. Of course it wasn't $20K though I do see used non-diesel ones out there for that.

 

I just went through this process very recently. I bought a 97 Tahoe with the tow package. There are numerous other used SUV's out there, however, that will handle your needs. Durango, Expedition, Suburban, etc...Get one with a tow package and check the tow ratings. Remember the ratings include all passengers and stuff you are carrying so the "lighter" SUVs usually wont cut it. Get as much extra capacity as you can. Also, a longer wheelbase helps. Good luck!

 

I tow with an '01 Jeep Grand Cherokee with all the little tow goodies. I honestly wish I bought a truck instead.