03/04 V8 Towing

[CuzzinOlaf]

Anyone tow anything of decent weight with their 03/04 V8s? I have an enclosed snowmobile trailer that weighs just over 3000lbs loaded. It sticks up at least a foot above the 4Runner, probably a foot on each side as well. I can get anywhere between 9 and 12 mpg when towing at highway speeds. Just curious what others are getting.

 

[Gromulus]

Camper RV

We own a Chalet A-frame camper. This unique unit is a fold-down hardsided camper.

Fully loaded weight is approximately 2600 lb when we hit the road, inlcng a tongue weight of 450#.

The folded unit is an inch or two shorter than our 4Runner and about 78" wide. I have no trouble using our factory mirrors while towing.

Highway mileage averages about 15 - 16 MPG and city is about 10 - 12.

I tow in 4th gear (per the manual). While I normally use 87 octane fuel, I usually use 91 - 93 octane while towing.

 

[charlier180]

Car Trailer:

20ft long x 8.5ft. wide, 3,200 lbs empty, ~5,400 lbs loaded, weight distributing hitch with sway control.
MPG when towing ranges from a low of 7.26 (mountains) to ~10.
I use additional towing mirrors because the stock 4Runner mirrors have TOO many blind spots.