[94teener]

I will be taking ownership of a car trailer, tandem axle, electric brakes, weight is about 1100 lbs. For events, I will be towing a 914 weighing about 2100 lbs. and maybe other odds and ends that would bring the total towed weight to about 3400 lbs. A friend of mine has a low mileage 2001 Ford Escape with a factory tow package rated at 3500 lbs that he has offered at a very good price. For those of you that tow, is this vehicle too small for my application?

[Trak Ratt]

Seems small to me. Your close to the max and haven't added spare tyres, tools, gas and gear. WG and MO with the mountains and you would be pushing the safety edge a lot.

[racer]

Given all the available choices, this one is a bit small

Tow capacity of 3500 is likely maximum then you have to MINUS out things like you, your luggage, cooler, etc.. plus the 2100lb car + 1100lb trailer.


That said, it could be done. You'd want some auxillary coolers at least. You'd also only be towing at no more than 60mph... My dad towed a 914 on a heavy uhaul trailer with an SHO. We towed a our 911 on a trailex behind a '74 MB 450. Neither was an optimal set up, but they did work

I would think you could find a used F150/Chebby/Durango/Liberty type truck for cheap. I'd look for at least a 5,000lb capacity.

[arob]

This will be my first season towing, and I opted for a cheap, used Yukon. My allroad probably could have done the job, but I wanted something that would tow easily.

[9toofaresser]

I think the Escape has the smaller size receiver for the hitch - doesn't look beefy enough to me.

Whatever you get, make sure you install a good brake controller, especially if it is a lighter tow vehicle.

I got a Tekonsha and it plugged right in under the dash on my F-150 (with factory tow package)...

[Chakka]

I have an 08' Explorer with factory tow pkg and it works fine, but for big hauls, VIR or MO I now have an F250. Makes a big difference. I will say the Explorer is a V-6 and it really worked hard coming back from WG, but worked out okay. I'll take the F250 from now on. I think you'll really be pushing the limits of safety. You would be better suited to look at an used Explorer, Sport Trac or similar type vehicle.

[Trak Ratt]

V8 Explorer or Sport Trac would work.

[tdatk]

I pull with my 05 Tacoma with a 2700# trailer +2800# SC without any issue cept that pesky WOT excuse.

[94teener]

Thanks everyone. I'm going to go with V8 power and more than 5000# towing capacity.

[tdatk]

Originally Posted by 94teener

Thanks everyone. I'm going to go with V8 power and more than 5000# towing capacity.

FYI the Tacoma has a 4L V6 and has a 6500# towing cap.