Rivercamp72 wrote:Another congrats on your boat. I agree with keeping your travel speed low, it will help. I'm sure you already know this, but start checking your transmission fluid more often now. I have a 2002 Mazda B4000 4x4 pickup with a 4.0 liter engine. It does okay with my 18' Smokercraft sled with Shorelander trailer. It's a heavy set-up for my truck. Your boat is even more stout. I venture to say you have a 3.6 liter in your SUV. It's always something to think about, but changing oil/fluid is VERY cheap insurance. Supper cool boat though!!
And I'll add mine too! I wouldn't think you'd have too much trouble towing with your Escape, but a word of caution, do not tow in overdrive. If you can turn your overdrive off, I recommend you do so.
I tow our 20' Hewescraft with my '04 Ford Ranger SuperCab 4X4 (4.0 SOHC, 5spd auto, 4.10 gears) and it does just fine, but I always tow with OD off. That was a tip I got from
very trusted Ford rep who sold lots of transmissions due to towing in OD. On the flats or downhill - fine, but if you're climbing at all, OD off should be standard practice. I've compared mileage both ways, with OD on for downhill and flats, and off all the way to Roosevelt (from Spokane) and it's the same either way. Even a little extra fuel is better than the cost of a new tranny. Btw, my loaded boat and trailer (gear, cooler, 48gals fuel, etc.) tip the scales at 3600lbs, I can't imagine yours would be more than that.
Looking forward to seeing some bloody decks!
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