How capable is a 1/2 ton 2wd truck on towing?
03-30-2007 | 08:06 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Registered
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 1,014
Likes: 0
From: Tampabay Florida
How capable is a 1/2 ton 2wd truck on towing?
Just looking for some real world facts. I'm about to buy a new 1/2ton Truck, either a new Tundra or a Ford150. I have 30' CC console which probably weighs in around 5-6k. My biggest fear is the 2wd won't be able to pull the boat out of the water up the ramp without struggling. Do I need 4wd option.
03-30-2007 | 09:36 PM
#2
Forum Regulator
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 24,215
Likes: 1,615
From: Worldwide
4WD is worth about $300K the moment your new truck and boat are slipping down a ramp backwards spinning one wheel. Figure in your trailer, fuel, gear, coolers, anchors, tools, engines, etc; I bet you will be over 6K lbs.
You can't have too much truck. There are several threads about the new 1/2 tons being rated to tow 10-11K lbs. They are expecting you to be towing campers with WD hitches and electric brakes. The brakes and suspensions on these trucks are not up to towing the way the majority of us do with long suspended weight and surge brake systems.
I'd go 3/4 ton. You can't have too much truck, or be too safe. The more truck and wheelbase under you, and in front of your boat; the better you tow, and the safer you and your loved ones are, as well as those traveling around you.
You can't have too much truck. There are several threads about the new 1/2 tons being rated to tow 10-11K lbs. They are expecting you to be towing campers with WD hitches and electric brakes. The brakes and suspensions on these trucks are not up to towing the way the majority of us do with long suspended weight and surge brake systems.
I'd go 3/4 ton. You can't have too much truck, or be too safe. The more truck and wheelbase under you, and in front of your boat; the better you tow, and the safer you and your loved ones are, as well as those traveling around you.
03-31-2007 | 06:59 AM
#5
Registered
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,780
Likes: 0
From: Paducah
I had a 1/2 ton 2WD 2004 Chevy X-cab truck that I pulled a Baja H2X, then a 25' Outlaw with. Did fine with the H2X, but the 25' O/L was a little tougher. The boatramp at my campground goes to gravel, then up a hill, so I had to drive 10 miles down the road to another ramp. I'll never tow with a 1/2 ton 2WD again.
03-31-2007 | 08:19 AM
#8
Gold Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 1,479
Likes: 5
From: St. Cloud, FL
If you don't go for the 4wd make sure the truck has the limited slip option. I tow my 24 Pantera with my 2wd Explorer Sport Trac and so far it's been ok. Obviously it wouldn't be my first choice for a tow vehicle but it works for now. 
I also added the rear suspension assist air bags which help a lot. I have no sag in the rear.
So far I haven't slipped a bit pulling it out of the ramp.
I also added the rear suspension assist air bags which help a lot. I have no sag in the rear. So far I haven't slipped a bit pulling it out of the ramp.
