Tow Vehicle Recommendations
06-18-2013, 08:10 PM
#1
Tow Vehicle Recommendations
Guys,
As I'm getting closer to making decisions about a racecar, assuming it's very likely to be a 911 variant of some sort, I need to start thinking about what I'm going to tow it with. (I'll keep the trailer discussion for later.)
What options should I be considering for a good tow vehicle?
A few qualifiers:
1) I don't want overkill but something that can definitely do the job and return fairly decent gas mileage in the process.
2) I'll be keeping my 991 as my daily driver, but it would be nice if I could get something that could pull double-duty as everyday transport when I'm not using it, ie. not too big to park and store when not in use. Near luxe SUV for example?
3) Strong preference for diesel.
4) Would need decent space for two or three crew members, aka. friends who will be working for beer.
5) Would probably be leaning towards used given this is going to be a second vehicle and the usage relatively low.
Thanks,
Marc
As I'm getting closer to making decisions about a racecar, assuming it's very likely to be a 911 variant of some sort, I need to start thinking about what I'm going to tow it with. (I'll keep the trailer discussion for later.)
What options should I be considering for a good tow vehicle?
A few qualifiers:
1) I don't want overkill but something that can definitely do the job and return fairly decent gas mileage in the process.
2) I'll be keeping my 991 as my daily driver, but it would be nice if I could get something that could pull double-duty as everyday transport when I'm not using it, ie. not too big to park and store when not in use. Near luxe SUV for example?
3) Strong preference for diesel.
4) Would need decent space for two or three crew members, aka. friends who will be working for beer.
5) Would probably be leaning towards used given this is going to be a second vehicle and the usage relatively low.
Thanks,
Marc
06-18-2013, 08:21 PM
#4
06-18-2013, 08:51 PM
#7
Rennlist Member
We used to tow with our V8 Cayenne and then switched to a Ram 2500 diesel a few years ago. I use the truck pretty much as my DD. It is shockingly comfortable although a little bit of a pain to park. If you think you can get by with a truck, do it. The difference in towing with an SUV and a big pick up is night and day. Effortless and feels safe. Besides, even fully loaded it'll be cheaper than a diesel Cayenne or MB SUV.
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06-18-2013, 08:56 PM
#9
06-18-2013, 09:20 PM
#11
Instructor
OP, I really think you should decide the trailer issue first. Not necessarily brand and specifics, but the question of open or enclosed.
Open, you can certainly consider something like the Merc GL diesel.
Enclosed, you really should be looking at the pickups
Open, you can certainly consider something like the Merc GL diesel.
Enclosed, you really should be looking at the pickups
06-18-2013, 09:32 PM
#12
The Penguin King
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Having a truck instead of an SUV has advantages beyond towing capability. It is awfully nice to be able to throw stuff into the back of the truck without worrying about messing up the interior of a lux SUV.
And as previously mentioned, you do need to decide what type of trailer you will be towing to make a good decision on the tow vehicle.
And as previously mentioned, you do need to decide what type of trailer you will be towing to make a good decision on the tow vehicle.
06-18-2013, 09:32 PM
#13
Rennlist Member
Trailex enclosed is easily handled by an SUV
06-18-2013, 09:34 PM
#14
Rennlist Member
5-10yr old Chevy Silverado 2500HD (or Ford F250) Extended Cab (with back seats) with a tow package for about (or less than) $10k. Get a gas (not a diesel). The difference in gas (vs diesel) mileage costs over the next five years will not even come close to the price premium of the diesel truck. Plus a gas engine sounds/drives/revs better.
IMO, you want a tow vehicle with a max tow capacity of about double the expected towed weight for that sense of comfort and security when towing (the higher the capacity, the better/safer it will be). The weight of the tow vehicle is also important (and not only HP/torque) as you want to minimize tail-wagging-the-dog situations. This eliminates most light (but high HP) SUVs in my book.
Also, getting a more substantial tow vehicle will offer you flexibility when/if you decide to switch to a more substantial (enclosed) trailer. You will have a wider range of trailer options which the truck would be able to tow comfortably.
IMO, you want a tow vehicle with a max tow capacity of about double the expected towed weight for that sense of comfort and security when towing (the higher the capacity, the better/safer it will be). The weight of the tow vehicle is also important (and not only HP/torque) as you want to minimize tail-wagging-the-dog situations. This eliminates most light (but high HP) SUVs in my book.
Also, getting a more substantial tow vehicle will offer you flexibility when/if you decide to switch to a more substantial (enclosed) trailer. You will have a wider range of trailer options which the truck would be able to tow comfortably.
06-18-2013, 09:41 PM
#15
Late Porkchops
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
My wifes new ML Mercedes will tow and I have seen guys do it. But it is nothing compared to a real truck.
I have owned several F250s - but I went to get a new F 350 Powerstroke if that says anything.
But a car event got in the way at the dealer. There was a new Ford 302 Boss sitting in the showroom.
I still have my 2008 truck - but I have a new Boss .
But there are lots of trucks left .
I have owned several F250s - but I went to get a new F 350 Powerstroke if that says anything.
But a car event got in the way at the dealer. There was a new Ford 302 Boss sitting in the showroom.
I still have my 2008 truck - but I have a new Boss .
But there are lots of trucks left .