Originally written by MargaretW on 2010-09-03 8:15 AM
Hi all. I'm considering buying an SUV for normal driving but also as an additional tow vehicle for my 3H steel bp. What would you consider the best for towing/braking? And would it be recommended to install an anti-sway kit? . Just wondering if they are necessary. Safety is first and foremost. Ease of use is secondary.? SUVs can do a very good job of pulling a trailer. With most 3HBP SL trailers, you can shift your loads to help balance the trailer and lessen the tongue weight on the towing vehicle. This usually is not available on 2HBP ST trailers. The longer the wheelbase of the SUV, the more stable it will be. Suburbans, Expeditions and the like have done well towing for many years. The vehicles must be adequately prepared for towing. This would include the largest motor and a proper rear axle ratio. Aux transmission and engine cooling systems are usually included in "towing packages", which should be considered absolutely manditory. Factory installed receivers are the best and are usually part of the packages. Some also include larger brakes, more robust tires and suspension systems, including automatic air height adjustments. I wouldn't purchase a sway bar system until your rig is on the road and tested. With radial tires installed, most properly loaded trailers track quite well, without needing any auxillary mechanics. Every situation differs and you can't really know yours until you try your first pull. One of the most important trailer installations components will be an electronic brake controller. Your trailer brakes will be expected to stop their load. Proper brake timing and the strength of the application is paramount. You cannot safetly pull, whilst expecting the towing vehicle to provide all of your braking effort. A properly prepared SUV can be a good multipurpose vehicle. Just make sure to tick off the options list for the specifics you will need. |