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Nhytefall · 06-17-2012, 11:29 AM

All, I currently tow our popup with a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder (4wd auto 3.5 V6) not factory equipped for towing. I'm looking for advice on a few things:

The stealership put sport truck tires on the truck, and these are being replaced prior to next years "big trip". Firestone has recommended Dueler H/Ts. Thoughts?

For my own peace of mind, I am looking to install a transmission cooler/temp gauge combo. I am looking for recommendations for quality to cost, as cost is a factor.

Thirdly, I may add electric brakes to the PUP. Any recommendations as to brand/ necessary additonal equipment for the truck?

Thanks in advance!

jeffminsc · 06-17-2012, 06:12 PM

Transmission cooler is a good idea. A engine oil cooler is a good class 3 hitch. I would have thought it would have had breaks on the pop up.

Nhytefall · 06-17-2012, 08:48 PM

@Jeffminsc, thanks for the response. I have a Class III receiver currently installed, and the connection between truck and trailer is rock solid.

I suspect newer models may have electric brakes. Mine, however, does not have them (but then again, it was also manufactured in 1971, so there's that...)

SmokeyWren · 06-20-2012, 07:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nhytefall

Thirdly, I may add electric brakes to the PUP. Any recommendations as to brand/ necessary additonal equipment for the truck?

The simplest way to add brakes to the trailer is to replace the entire axle with one that has brakes. Measure the length of the axle from hub face to hub face so you'll know what length to order. Note the bolt circle of your wheels so you'll get the right hubs to match the wheels, without having to replace tires and wheels.

If the GVWR of your trailer is more than 2,000 pounds, then you probably have 3,500 pound alxes. But if you have 2000 pound axles, then you'll need more parts to replace the axle with 3,500 pound axle with brakes, including maybe wheels and tires. If your wheels have only 4 holes, then you're outta luck. But if they are 5 holes with at least 4.5" hole pattern, then you can buy the replacement axle with hubs and brakes for $266. You'll also need new U-bolts, and maybe other parts, but the place where you order the axle from will have those parts available. Here's my favorite source for trailer axles:
Trailer Axles for utility and boat trailers

If your trailer has drop axle, those are available too:
http://www.trailerpart.com/35kdroptraileraxle.htm

Nhytefall · 06-23-2012, 11:30 AM

SmokeyWren, thanks for the information!

Looking at options (great links you provided by the way), replacing the axle in its entirety is most certainly the best option. I've added it to the punchlist, and we'll tackle that project when fall gets a little closer.

TexasPSDX · 07-01-2012, 09:55 AM

You mention gauges. I just bought an Edge Insight CTS for my truck. It plugs into the OBD2 port under the dash and reads the sensors in your truck. You can read trans temp, engine oil temp and others. Easy to install and portable when you trade trucks.

JohnBoyToo · 07-02-2012, 09:24 AM

Many on other forums like these (and I have two):
ScanGauge - Trip Computer + Digitial Gauges + ScanTools

see if they have the (xgauges) extra gauges programmed for your vehicle...

I bought mine for the $115 range, but seems their popularity has bounced the price

Amazon.com: ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3-in-1 Automotive Computer with Customizable Real-Time Fuel Economy Digital Gauges: Automotive