OT: Anybody Own a Honda Pilot and Tow with it? Options

[Ferg]

Looking at a Honda Pilot to replace my Xterra. (mainly for the 3rd row seat) I know it does not have a real frame like my Xterra and the tow rating reflects that. Xterra=5500 Pilot=3500 or 4500 pulling a boat trailer, still figuring out why that makes a difference, seems to be due to boat trailer design and less tongue weight.


My camper weighs in at 2600 Dry, I figure with gear and my family we are in the 3-3200 range. Tongue weight is 170.

I think my car trailer is only about 800lbs, so with a 914 or 911 similar weights to the camper.

I've done some reading with mixed reviews, looking for some real world input from members.

Ferg (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

[gopack]

I own a 2004 Honda Pilot, EX-L and have towed my car on a uhaul trailer from New Mexico to Idaho, and Idaho to Wisconsin with no problems. Just make sure you have added a transmission cooler, and take it easy in cross winds because the Pilot doesn't have the weight that a big PU has. I got about 14 MPG for the trip. The U Haul car transporter weighs in at 2000lbs, and the car as it sat weighed close to that as well! Also have towed cars on the uhauls back and forth to IL on numerous occassions!
On a side note, i really like the Pilot. it is a well built, well engineered CAR, BUT the 3rd row of seats are a death trap! small, and VERY close to the rear window. If you need to routinely travel with 8 passengers, I would suggest (shudder) something like a suburban or large van of some kind!