I'm keeping the boat near Lake Erie in inside storage. I'm about 2 hours away, so I usually drive my 2500hd up to get the boat in the water. It's probably less than 2 miles to the ramp, and the speed limit is less than 50. I was thinking about taking my 02 Explorer up to save gas and mileage on the truck. It's a 4x4 with a 4.0. I used to tow my 25' with the Explorer no problem. Obviously I'm way over tow ratings, as the boat with steel trailer probably weigh 9k. The tongue weight really isn't that much, and I can drive 35mph for the 2 miles or so (has self contained surge brake on trailer). Think I can safely pull off such a short haul? I tow daily with my own business, so I'm not new to towing by any means.

As long as you have no concerns about your insurance being denied in the event of an accident; I think you will be fine.

The previous owner of my 271 lives about a half mile or less from the ramp he dropped in at . It was literally right down the same street he lived on. He dropped it in and out with a 4 cylinder Toyota Tacoma . I'm not recommending you do it, but it can be done. Jeff wurl

Will it do it - yes

Should you do it - no


I've been towing short distance with a 1/2 ton and cant wait to go back to a HD truck - the vehicle weight and braking is your issue!

Will it pull it? Sure.
Will it stop quickly? Nope.
Have I done the same thing in the past? Lots of times.
As stated above, it's the What If factor you have to decide.

you have the right truck,so just use it.....