Small Truck Toad or no toad?

[GoneFishin]

We have changed our thinking on a toad and need to post a couple of our thoughts, hoping for some feedback.

Our 2007 Monaco LaPalma XL diesel ISL 325 has a 4000# hitch weight limit. It won't handle our '05 4Runner 4x4 so we thought we were going to get an '07 CR-V. The dealer's offer changed our minds temporarily on that and made us think outside our normal thoughts.

If we had a small pickup we could carry a small boat or other small toys. Which trucks should we consider if we want to tow 4-down, keeping under 4k pounds. What should we think about or be aware of with snall trucks? I've seen some 55 mph speed limits and I'm not sure that is realistic (not that I speed.)

Our other thought is a little more outside the norm. We are considering keeping the (paid for) 4Runner, driving separately, but being able to tow just about anything with it - like a boat. Rick lets me drive the coach all the time and he would drive the 4Runner.

We plan to go fulltime in about 6 months so this is not an urgent decision. We will be spending a minimum of 2-3 weeks, sometimes 2-3 months in one place. Are we crazy to think about driving separately?

[GoneFishin]

We have changed our thinking on a toad and need to post a couple of our thoughts, hoping for some feedback.

Our 2007 Monaco LaPalma XL diesel ISL 325 has a 4000# hitch weight limit. It won't handle our '05 4Runner 4x4 so we thought we were going to get an '07 CR-V. The dealer's offer changed our minds temporarily on that and made us think outside our normal thoughts.

If we had a small pickup we could carry a small boat or other small toys. Which trucks should we consider if we want to tow 4-down, keeping under 4k pounds. What should we think about or be aware of with snall trucks? I've seen some 55 mph speed limits and I'm not sure that is realistic (not that I speed.)

Our other thought is a little more outside the norm. We are considering keeping the (paid for) 4Runner, driving separately, but being able to tow just about anything with it - like a boat. Rick lets me drive the coach all the time and he would drive the 4Runner.

We plan to go fulltime in about 6 months so this is not an urgent decision. We will be spending a minimum of 2-3 weeks, sometimes 2-3 months in one place. Are we crazy to think about driving separately?

[GaryKD]

While not the norm, I have visited with several couples who have done what you suggest. All were very happy with the arrangement. All had the same view as stated in your post. Stay in one place months at a time. A good thing about your proposed plan is that there is no penalty, if it does not work out the way you thought it would. The $s you are considering spending remain in your pocket. I'd say go for it.

[Route 66]

I agree with Gary, and having a toad along even if it not towed is essential.

[paz]

If you look at the Motorhome Magazine dinghy towing guide for 2007 (the 2008 version won't be out for a couple more months), there aren't many trucks (assuming you mean strictly pickup trucks) under 4000 lbs. that can be flat-towed. The Colorado/Canyon and the Ford Ranger are listed at less than 4000 lbs.; but if you want an extended or crew cab, 4WD, or very many other options, the weight is likely to go over your limit.

There are several towable SUVs that might more easily stay under the weight limit.

There are other full-timers driving separately, but my wife and I would not like this arrangement. In addition to not having your spouse's company, one other down side to driving separately is you will use more fuel. But only you and your spouse can decide if this would work for you. As Gary says, it won't cost you anything to try it out (except a little extra gas). If I were you though, I would try it a while before accumulating any toys that you want to tow with your second vehicle in case it doesn't work out.

[mountainkowboy]

We tow an 1988 Ford Ranger Supercab 4x4 behind the HR with the Harley in the bed. The truck itself is at 3550# and with the HD in the bed we sit at 4300# Our hitch is rated at 5000# and with the way we are loaded we sit right at 20,980# which leaves an extra 1000lbs for towing. Still within our GCWR.

[Submustang]

If you have room under your GCVR, you might want to talk to Monaco about getting a higher rated hitch. A couple years ago some Alfa owners were doing that. As I recall, they could get a kit to increase the hitch capacity from 5K to 10K lbs.