BoatBanter.com - View Single Post - Use 2008 Toyota Highlander to Tow a Fiberglass Boat?

John H.[_5_]

On Sat, 9 Aug 2008 03:54:12 -0700 (PDT),
wrote:

On Aug 9, 6:44*am, John H. wrote:
On Mon, 4 Aug 2008 13:05:48 -0700 (PDT), "

wrote:
I need to buy a new car to replace my PathFinder (it is too old). I am
considering many difference choices. The top one on my short list is
2008 Toyota Highlander. This new model can tow 5,000 pounds. More
importantly it has great fuel efficiency (17 City / 24 Hwy). However,
according to the owner manual PDF file available online, this car
should only drive no more than 45 MPH if it is towing thing. The owner
manual doesn't say if it is applicable to a certain towing weight or
above. Seem like it is across the board regardless how much towing
weight involved. This makes me worry because 45 MPH is too slow a
driving speed on a highway. I am hoping to be at least 50 or 55 MPH.

FWIW, I have a 2008 Toyota 4Runner. My book also says the max towing speed
is 45 mph because if swaying, etc. occur, 'loss of control may result'.

I tow a boat, and I tow a travel trailer. With the travel trailer I use a
weight distributing hitch. It is much heavier than the boat (an 18'er).

I have no problem pulling either at 60 mph, which is 'my' max towing speed.

Every have a panic stop? Going is not the problem.

No, I've not yet had a panic stop. The travel trailer has electric brakes,
but the boat trailer has none. I've made quick stops with both, but try
very hard to leave enough distance between myself and the vehicle in front
that I don't have to 'panic stop'. As a motorcyclist, I learned the 'two
second' rule for following. When towing I change that to a 'three second'
rule. It works well.