New to Towing

[Diamonddave952]

Hello Fellow Boaters - I just took delievery of a 20' Chapparal boat and would like some advice on towing. I am towing my boat with a 2006 Toyota Tacoma (with factory installed tow package) and was wondering, when I start from a dead stop or pulling the boat out of the water, do I need to put the transmission in Low or can I keep the transmission in Drive? I want to maximize the life (as we all do) of my transmission. Happy Boating

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: New to Towing

Leave it in drive as its already in low when you start from a dead stop. You should lock out overdrive tho.

 

[burp]

Re: New to Towing

Have the transmission serviced more frequently if you tow a lot. Also if it's an automatic transmission, check the fluid level and if the fluid has a brownish tint, get the transmission serviced as soon as reasonably possible.

 

[samo_ott]

Re: New to Towing

Is the Tacoma 4wd? I like 4wd low if you have it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: New to Towing

stay out of overdrive when towing.

 

[rndn]

Re: New to Towing

I have an 2007 Tacoma with a V-6 4wd and the towing package. as stated just stay out of overdrive when towing. You do not need to shift down to take off as the tranny does that for you.

 

[cbear34]

Re: New to Towing

Welcome to iboats!
Very important to service the transmission fluid and filter before it gets burnt. I service my trans every year. I drive my truck less than 6500 miles a year. As previous posters have said do not use OD when towing.

 

[Diamonddave952]

Re: New to Towing

Thanks for the replies everyone!

 

[642mx]

Re: New to Towing

I have a Toyota Tundra and I use 4-low when pulling the boat from the water. It seems like its easier on the truck. When I'm driving to the lake, I drive it like normal with the OD off.

 

[Joebklyn]

Re: New to Towing

I have had much success with Mobil 1 synthetic tranny oil. It withstands heat a lot better than any other product. Check your trailer bearings often. I did a lot of research and probably the best grease is stuff called "Green Grease". Go to greengrease.net for info.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: New to Towing

Stick with direct (stay out of overdrive) and you will be doing yourself a huge favour !!!!!