QuestionI have a 1994 Toyota extended cab pickup with the 4cyl 22re engine and manual transmission. The towing capacity listed in the manual and on the bumper is 3500lbs. I would like to tow a boat that weights 2800lbs on a dual axle trailer with disc brakes that weighs 1600lbs short distances around the Chesapeake Bay. I know I'll need a good frame hitch, but even with that is the frame/axle/everything else in my little truck robust enough to do this?
AnswerI know sometimes people go over (sometimes WAY over) posted load limits, but I don't recommend it. The factory will build in some extra there but it isn't good to use it regularly.
With a good reciever style hitch and a load equalizing setup, you can probably get around, but I wouldn't go near any mountains. You are well over 4000 pounds and if you put anything inside the boad (extra gas tank, swimming toys, skis, life vests, coolers etc) you can add several hundred more pounds.
Even with the tralier brakes you might overload the truck brakes and you are really marginal on engine power.
remember you will be adding 400+ pounds to the suspension of the truck added to you and any passengers and luggage/stuff you put in the truck when you tow. That all goes on the suspension, and the load equalizing hitch just spreads the hitch weight between the front and rear axles, it doesn't take it away.
The safe thing to do is look for a more heavy duty tow vehicle. If you tow the boat often, you will be much happier and safer.
Don
