towing with a V6

[schreib]

I am simply trying to figure out which of two mid-size SUV's to modify to pull a boat-- as yet, not acquired yet. I figure it is more important to be sure my vehicle will handle the towing before OVER buying a boat/ trailer system too large for my capability. I am considering boat / trailers that weight up to 1500# total.

So, I have a Cadillac SRX (260 HP with AWD) with 84K on it but no tow hitch and an Isuzu Rodeo(205 HP & 4WD) with 125K and has a tow ball hitch. Both have 6 cylinder engines and neither has an OEM "towing package". I believe both have a tranny cooler-- if that is the thinner radiator mounted in front of the main one. I did not follow down the tubes yet. The SRX is rated for 6000 GVW and the Rodeo is rated for 4850 # GVW. The Rodeo is my hunting and fishing vehicle has less HP and being it has the hitch so I was hoping to use it for towing the new boat.

Questions:
1) which should I consider modifying with an aftermarket towing add ons and why? the SRX seems like the likely one but it is not a locked-in 4WD but an AWD that is on demand.
2)Besides a transmission cooler and towing hitch is there anything else I should consider in a towing "package?"

 

[DJ]

Re: towing with a V6

schreib,

1500# typically present little issues. However, make sure the load is really 1500#. We boaters tend to grossly underestimate our towed loads.

The real issues are typically threefold.

1. Is the body capable of holding a hitch? Many are not.

2. Are the brakes adequate-probably.

3. Can the electrical system handle the additional load. Many of todays vehicles electrical systems are VERY sensitive and sophisticated. I suspect your Cadillac is one of those. Care should be taken before wiring anything in. Consult a Cadillac dealer. Don't trust the hitch installer.

 

[schreib]

Re: towing with a V6

yes, I just got the Caddy and am finding out many constraints even to connect my iPod! Only good way is tough to do. . . It IS a Cadillac though. thanks.

 

[DJ]

Re: towing with a V6

I think the Caddy will do fine. Just make sure you have the bases covered. In my experience, Cadillac has been very forthcoming with information requests, such as yours.

The electrical issues can be overcome just by making sure the boat trailer is isolated from the vehicle system. Doing so is not uncommon these days.

For that matter, the Suzy will probably do OK too.

 

[jkust]

Re: towing with a V6

That is such a light load you could tow with most any vehicle. The SRX with the larger engine would be the one I would start with but frankly either would likely do fine. My body on frame SUV was made to tow and it has on demand AWD. I tow a much heavier load and the only time the AWD ever kicked in while towing was when I launched at an unmaintained, sand launch. Sometimes the tow packages consist of the obvious such as the hitch and plug in adapter. Some then will have the extra tranny cooler but also a lower rear end ratio as well as a locking rear differential. My 'made for towing vehicle' also has rear air suspension which compensates for the tounge weight. Proper tires help alot as well. All of those extra extras make towing a breaze. Your SRX will likely easily accept a hitch and wire adapter. My opinion would change dramatically if you were towing say a lightweight 4000lb bowrider without the tow package but the SRX has a decent tow rating even without the package.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: towing with a V6

... neither has an OEM "towing package". I believe both have a tranny cooler-- if that is the thinner radiator mounted in front of the main one...

I highly doubt that what you are seeing a transmission cooler. It's more likely your A/C condenser. Vehicles that don't have factory tow packages almost never come with external transmission coolers. Especially not GM products, which is what both of your vehicles essentially are. (GM owns the majority of Isuzu)

 

[schreib]

Re: towing with a V6

Yes, certainly you are correct. I forgot about the AC. . .

EV\veryone here has been very helpful. Thanks folks. I plan to put the money into the stronger and newer vehicle-- even if if doesn't have a hitch already. So, the plan is get a tranny cooler, new frame hitch, get the wiring done right and it should all be good. Most states do not require trailer brakes under 3000# so I will forgo those. Tires are OK.

thanks again!

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: towing with a V6

Actually, trailer brakes can help overcome a lot of the tow vehicle's deficiencies. For all the more trailer brakes cost as an option, I wouldn't skimp on them. They are worth their weight in gold. I used to tow my boat with trailer brakes that weren't working, and my van did okay. When I fixed the trailer brakes, it did GREAT! I had no trouble stopping it at all.

Please reconsider your decision to exclude trailer brakes.