Re: 4 cyl 2wd Towing 18ft Bow rider?
Hitch it up and try it that is the only way you will get an accurate answer since every situation is different . I pulled a very similar setup (Glasport 18.5 bowrider I/O) with an S-10, 2.2 litre, 5 speed for over 5 years. I pulled it 60 miles every weekend during boating season over some very hilly terrain. I had to use 3rd gear on some hills. The ramp I use is fairly steep and was rough on the clutch but never had an issue with traction. If I had had a colorado like yours with the bigger engine and automatic transmision it would have been much better. I guess the point I'm trying to make is if an old 2.2 S-10 could do it than your truck should be more than able. Factor in the rising fuel prices too! Also drive with caution....this is sound advice even if you pull with a F-250!
+1. You could tow that sucker with a 3/4 or 1 ton, but if you're driving as if you're not towing something you could be more dangerous than the guy towing at or near the limit of his tow vehicle. No hurry, just make it to your destination safely and don't impede the flow of traffic..
When I was a kid my dad had an 18' aluminum sea nymph with an Evinrude 88 outboard.. He towed with an 84 s10, 2.8l 110hp, 5 spd manual.. I recall the routine to pull the boat up the ramp, I (preteen years) would drive the boat up on the trailer, attach the winch strap, then trim the engine up a bit and leave it in forward. When I saw his brake lights go off I'd goose it to help him just as he let the clutch out, then shut it off as soon as we were moving forward. We did what we had to with what we had, and I'll never forget the great times we had on the water together.
