Just paid a visit to Towing tips for SUVs. Not a lot happening on that board. Maybe we could move the Toyota Sequoia discussion over there. I did notice that heatwave hasn't posted there since July 18, 2001. Anybody remember when he showed up here?
I showed up here AFTER a Sequoia owner raised the subject of the Sequoia being the best tow vehicle on the market and I proceeded to share data and experience to support my view that he was wrong.
Please feel free to chastise the next Sequoia owner regarding unfounded claims on subjects you would prefer were discussed somewhere else and you won't have to hear from me. Until then your only a mouse click away.
you gotta put all the blame on 2heeldrive, who in post #3791 offered this advice to someone comparing the MDX to the Sequoia: "... The Sequoia is the better tow vehicle. IMO the Honda (oops I mean Acura) will not be happy towing your boat and towing any distance will severely limit it's useful life..." And in so doing, dared to back the statement with concrete real-life, personal and hands-on experience using his Sequoia to tow versus his previous Bronco, Explorer and Suburbans.
Now, for doing all of the above, 2heeldrive has received his due punishment: sitting at the back of the class and learning the real facts about towing. Let that be a lesson to anyone else out there stupid enough to want to use their Sequoia for anything other than what Toyota recommended - light to moderate towing -
So 2heeldrive, cure us of this blasphemy of yours and re-phrase your original opinion which compared towing abilities of YOUR previously owned trucks to YOUR current vehicle....
if you do not heed this well recommended advice, you (and your side kick named 714cut from up north country) shall be banned from further using your Sequoia to tow, and certainly if you were to unfortunately use it for towing, to never report it here ever again.
Now that should do it for those "erroneous opinions" on this forum....
I just rented a Sequoia and towed a 35,000 lb. triple-wide down one side of the Grand Canyon and up the other. Towing seemed just fine, but I only got 4 miles to the gallon!
p.s. It outowed my Bronco, my Windstar, my son's skateboard, and my daughter's Barbie Jeep.
I've seen some opinions on the best size of snow tires for the Sequoia.
The best sizing for winter tires is to
1) Match the existing overall height of the stock tires (so it doesn't change speedo, vehicle height/dynamics,.. much) but
2) Do it with a narrower tire (same vehicle weight pressing down on a narrower tire digs into the snow better).
Summary: Replacing 265/70/16 with 245/75/16 stays extremely close to the original height but will dig into the snow better. [At the cost of some dry weather grip - but we are driving an SUV, right?]. Going with a 265/75/16 as someone suggested increases the height significantly (see the simple table below). The www.tirerack.com site has excellent sizing info.
Nothing in the manual states that the sequoia can only tow 80% of the weight limit they indicate. Is this something that applies predominantly to the GM vehicles?
This may sound like a silly question but does the front dome light go on when you open the doors? The middle and cargo light does. The owners manual doesn't indicate that it does and there's no door setting like the other lights.
You're kidding me. That statement is what caused this diarrhea of the keyboard? I can't believe that anybody, much less a Fortune 50 Marketing VP, could do enough towing to form such a strong opinion of tow vehicles while spending so much time on the Web. Thanks for doing the research for me. Don't worry 2heeldrive, all sins are forgiven. Who could could know we had a towing commando just waiting to pounce on a innocent statement. I hear that it will all be moot in the future as OnStar will be installing a tractorbeam on their satellites to do the towing for their customers.
I had never thought much about it until you posted. I did notice that my front dome light does not come on when the doors are open. Like yours, only the middle and cargo lights turn on.
Since it appears so many Sequoia owners enjoy the topic of towing I am glad to oblige. You're all such a wonderful and polite audience, albeit rowdy at times.
oac3: thank you for meting out the punishment to 2heeldrive, your such a balanced and neutral judge:)
gpm5: You'll never find any manual for any tow vehicle with any recommendation on how much should be towed. The manufacturer simply provides the maximum safe weight for a trailer being towed. I suggested you talk with those that have towed since I couldn't possibly be trusted because I currently tow with a GM product. But if you were to follow my experience and the many thousands of people that tow regularly you would find most would not want to take any tow vehicle to its max for long distance or regular towing. Not to suggest you can't however the extra margin of safety will come in handy, particularly since most folks don't tow everyday.
BTW, you'll have a hard time getting much advice from Toyota owners that tow extensively since its extremely rare to see a Toyota at a boat ramp in NJ or in many various campgrounds in NJ, PA and NY.
I tow nearly every weekend in warm weather from NW Jersey to the Shore (about 1.5-2 hours each way). I tow at least 1 or more trips a year with 6000lbs+ for 6 hours each way and have done so for the past 12 years. There are people that tow substantially more than that that I believe you'll find in agreement with the view that 80% of a tow vehicle's rating is the "comfort" zone for any tow vehicle.
I'd be happy to oblige those wishing to continue our engaging discussion on towing, it can't possibly be less stimulating than trying to figure out "where that ammonia-like smell is coming from in my Sequoia" or better yet "what's the best way to rotate my tires" debate:)
Finally getting back on here after posting a note asking if Sequoia owners would buy the same vehicle again. Seems to be a resounding "Yes". Thanks to all you diehard Seq owners. You certainly helped me decide. Posting the same message on the MDX board and got pretty much the same answer. Not surprising. Someone else had posted a message comparing both vehicles back in March and you should see the thread that was generated back then. Quite interesting.
Anyway, I've decided on the Seq since I really want a truck, not a mini van (Ody) in disguise. Plus I need to tow a 4500lb boat and with all the tow discussions going on, I'm pretty "towed" out and know the Seq will handle this with ease. Had a Merc Mtn before with a V8 that didn't have any problems so I'm sure the Seq will be fine. In regards to the tow discussions, I realize it was painful for many of us to read the going back and forth about how my truck can tow more than yours but bottom line there was some useful info and you don't necessarily buy a truck with towing as your main reason. I only have one child (19 mths) and one on the way so I'm sure I'll have plenty of room. Plan on taking those 3rd seats out of there for now for more cargo space for all those toys...
Anyway, I'm making an offer tomorrow (12th) at a local dealer. They have 3 left over '01's that are discounted by 5.5k from MSRP. That ends up being under invoice for those of you who care. Have another dealer who wants my business so my plan is to see who will throw in the gold badging and wood panel. Hey, everyone wants a better deal than is being offered so what the heck. Colors to choose from are White, Thunder Gray or Black. Would love to hear from owners of each and see if their happy with their colors.
Keep the "clean" threads going and please don't worry so much about the GM guys on this forum. They all wish they had bought a Toyota hence the reason they spend all their time on this forum...
I don't understand why where I live has any bearing on this discussion forum other than it gives me a perspective others may not have (severe winter climate). I have no affiliation in any way with 2heeldrive. It's actually kind of funny that you accuse me of that while writing nice postings to "your buddy" heatwave. If you go back to my postings I have tried to be fair and level headed (while freely admitting I like my Sequoia very much)and simply challenging "fact based" postings when they're not fact based-like the Sequoia axle ratio. As for towing I happen to read a lot of publications and have been towing various boats for many years. I believe I can provide a fact based perspective on this board on this subject.
My wife and I have done our test drives of Tahoe, Expy & Seq. We like the Seq so much that we almost bought it on the spot. However, I thought we needed more info about these vehicles before making the final decision.
Several times a year, we need a vehicle to tow our 24' boat (which weighs 5,500lb with the trailer) through the Seirra Mountains. After reading some bogus claims on this forum about Seq not suitable to pull more than 5,000 lbs., I almost changed my mind about getting the Seq. My wife was really disappointed.
Fortunately, Cliffy and others have straightened out many of those misleading/false claims. In addition, we've talked a neighbor who uses his 01 Seq to tow his 6,000lb boat/trailer combo between Tahoe and the Delta (7,000 ft elevation) frequently. He says that the Seq handles the job with fine colors.
I'd like to thank Cliffy & others who endure insults & attacks for posting the truth. I'm sure I'm not the only one who have benefited from your efforts. I've learned that the numbers & terms posted by the Seq attacker don't mean much. If he OWNS a Seq and had problems with towing, then he would be more credible. I don’t care if your Yugo or whatever GM you own, tows the Space Shuttle well. Real experience with Seq is what we are interested in.
I am experiencing a grinding sound coming from my tire when I make a sharp right turn on an incline...even from a stop. The service guy told me it is normal..that it is the VSC pump. I don't beleive it. It sounds like the axle grinding. Anyone else have a similar experience??
Does anyone have any tales to relate about how well their 2WD Sequoia does on the boat ramp? I know there is a limited slip option, but I'm leery about buying another 2WD tow vehicle and spinning my tires when trying to take out a 2300 lb boat on a wet, steep ramp. OTOH, I don't want to buy a 4WD if I don't have to.
I heard today that GM is recalling the Trailblazer and the Envoy for the FOURTH time. Seems GM can't get them to stay in park this time. Anyone know what the other recalls were for? I'll bet those buyers would be happy with the "ammonia like smell" if their transmission would work. But hey, their big brothers can out tow a Sequoia throughout their 80,000 mile lifetime.
I am sorry if you missed my fun post. I was actually trying to make it somewhat light-hearted for everyone, by poking fun at it. If you re-read it once again you will clearly see it was meant as a joke. See Heatwave3's response, he figured it out and felt I was not being fair and balanced in my light-hearted post, lol !
Just re-read my post, 714cut, and you will perceive I was really on your side....(remember the smiley face at the end of it ?)... Honestly, I do appreciate your posts and have found them very helpful and informative... You have me on your side you just don't know it !
I swear not to mention the word t****** in this post so as to avoid another controversy
I have checked with the dealer about low volume of the rear (middle row) speakers and he agrees there is a problem. When you play the front speakers at a comfortable volume, you can hardly hear the rear speakers when you fade the speakers to the rear. The front and rear speakers are way out of balance with each other. Dealer says he is waiting on a fix from Toyota. I am very unhappy with "premium" sound system. Any comments about the "premium" sound system - good or bad? Also, had problem with gas cap leaking. Dealer replaced gasket and told me to crank the cap a few more "clicks." Seems to have corrected the problem.
Is it a 2002? I noticed the same thing and was about to stop by the dealer today to check another truck. It seems to me that the amplifier is not feeding the rear speakers. The 2001 had a problem with the bass but the balance wasn't an issue.
You stated, "I've learned that the numbers & terms posted by the Seq attacker don't mean much. If he OWNS a Seq and had problems with towing, then he would be more credible."
I'm curious to know why you're discrediting Heatwave's towing and hauling specs regarding the Sequoia? I find it difficult to believe with maximum towing established by Toyota at 6200 lbs. that your neighbor would tow a 6000 lbs. combo.
Yes I agree mmcgregor, the premium stereo in the Sequoia is terrible. My 1998 Ford Expy Eddie Bauer had a MACH stereo system which was very good so I am very disappointed with the JBL premium in my Seq. If I decide to keep the Seq long-term, I will have the stereo upgraded by a car audio shop. My 2000 4Runner Limited also had a poor stereo system. I wish I had saved my money and not purchased the PM package for my SR-5.
These are facts from a real person who does towing with the Seq. I don't believe this neighbor has anything to gain by lying to us. A number of people tow their boats to Tahoe from the Bay Area for the July 4 & Labor Day fireworks on the Lake (claimed to be 'the biggest west of Mississippi' by the local Casinos such as Caesar's & Harrah’s). I've seen a couple of Seq towing good size boats but I didn't know their gross weights until I asked this guy who owns a vacation home in our neighborhood in Tahoe. Towing 6,000lb does not exceed the 6,500lb recommended by Seq for a 2x nor the 6,200lb for a 4x. I do have a little more faith in Toyota than some nuts on the net.
I agree decodog. I had a Bose system in my last car and this is the only item I am disappointed with. Obviously it didn't stop me from buying but miss that Bose. Any enhancements anyone has to help the stereo would be appreciated.
I agree. Toyota has put a reasonable towing spec on the sequoia, and a 6000 lb boat is within that spec. Why try to decrease this spec or turn it into a 5000 lb limit as some would lead us to believe? My trooper (our other truck) has a 5000 lb limit and people on the trooper board routinely tow safely up to that limit as well.
Talking about towing nuts. I used to be a bad case. I towed my 5,500lb boat/trailer combo from Tahoe to Sacto (7,000ft elation) for winter storage with my lowly G Cherokee with I-6 and a 5,000lb limit for 3 years. I figured that GC had almost 100,000 mi and I had little to lose. Now, at 150,000mi, it's transmission & the rest of the vehicle, minus the stereo, is still running strong. Now that I'm older, I'd never recommend going over the recommended limit. It can be dangerous to the driver and others.
Maybe these GM guys only tow 80% because the GM engines are built to such sloppy standards that they can't tow the full load as stated in their marketing materials. I know the Silverado I owned would rattle and shake just going down the road. When I would step on the gas it felt like the engine mounts were coming loose and like there were marbles bouncing around in the crankcase.
No, I think luvsuv has the right idea - it's good to have a big margin for safety's sake. You guys did see our hint about the Towing tips for SUVs discussion, didn't you? Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
mmcgregor, I own a 2001 model. Bass is also a problem which the dealer recognizes as a problem but has no fix from Toyota. I read somewhere that the Land Cruiser had this same problem with JBL system that Toyota corrected. I am going to go to a car audio shop to see if they can trouble shoot the problem and then take it back to Toyota.
I tend to agree with cpintucson. Toyota isn't going to publish towing limits with some margins built in for good measure. Think of the liabilities that could derive from exceeding the published limit by a mere 10 pounds - plus or minus.
Obviously, the lower your towload, the better but engineers generally tend to err on the side of caution - particularly when legal liabilities are part of the equation.
In theory you oughta be able to buy a fairly well equipped base model Sequoia with an MSRP in the low 30's. I live in a smallish city with one Toyota dealer, and I've never seen one that listed much less than $40k. I guess short supply and high demand rules the market.
I love the interior silver metallic look of the trim of my sequoia...I was curious about how the wood applique set made for the Sequoia really looks. If you had the dealer do the application, does it look like real wood? Or does it appear "cheesy" and second rate? I look forward to any and all comments. Feel free to email (DocRock143@aol.com) Thanks! Alan
Good morning! Glad to see this thread start to look more rational. Did you mean to say "without" in "Toyota isn't going to publish towing limits with some margins built in for good measure"?
Factor of safety is what we're all talking about, I think. It would be really interesting to know how that varies among the manufacturers, although the truth may never be publicly known.
We are leasing a '99 Camry and the lease will be due in April. Currently, we are window-shopping for a Yukon or Sequoia to replace the Camry in the Spring. Yesterday, we received a promotional letter from our local Toyota dealer...they are having a "Factory Authorized Vehicle Buyback and Lease Buyout" event. They will buy your current vehicle at 20 % or up to $4000 over N.A.D.A. book value and it also states that "Special Assistance may allow you to termiate your current lease regardless of where you leased it or your current term." My question for you is: Does this sound like it's too good to be true? Will they really let someone terminate their lease early or will they roll the remaining payments into the price of the new car? I really would appreciate your opinion on this type of event.
Also, what ballpark range could we expect for monthly lease payments on a 36-month lease for a 2WD SR5 Sequoia?
What exactly are you guys saying about towing? You both seem to have somewhat conflicting statements in your recent posts. The point was Toyota has a 6200 lb limit on the 4WD (6500 on the 2WD) and towing a 6000 lb boat/trailer shouldn't be a problem.
lol, the towing thread that won't die. Regardless of what the manual says can be safely towed, I don't trust the average weekend tower's skills and common sense. So the more margin you guys leave for those emergency situations while towing, the better I feel. Either way, I'm still going to give towers a wide berth on the road.
Although the towing discussion is fascinating, does anyone care to discuss any other Sequoia-related issues on this board? Can anyone answer my above question regarding the "vehicle buyback and lease buyback" event being held by my local dealer this week (Nov. 15/16)? Thanks:)
It is hard to give advice to someone about leasing without knowing how much they know about leasing. I think most people lease without knowing what it is all about...at least their first lease. I will assume that you know little about it so that this post may help others also.
I don't know about the buyback program. I know that dealers say a lot of things that don't seem to be exactly what they mean. You probably already know that you can trade-in a leased vehicle at any time but will still have to pay the remaining payments and most likely some other fees. How this money is paid can vary but usually involves increasing the negotiated price of the new vehicle to include the payoff amount (this can be financed in the loan or paid by you in a down payment). I don't think dealers are going to payoff your lease for you. On this end, I would negotiate the everything for the new car (price, terms, etc) BEFORE you talk about trading in your leased vehicle. For anyone who wants to lease it is vitally important to understand leasing before you lease. Know the terms and how leases are calculated: MSRP, negotiated price, money factors, residual value, capitalized cost reduction, length in months, etc. There is so much information on the net and even at this site. If you have questions, post in the "Ask Lease Questions" board. To get an idea of lease payments and rates check out sites like www.leasecompare.com and get info at sites like www.leasespy.com. Also, download a lease calculator like "The Car Lease Calculator". As you know from this site, knowledge is key when buying and especially leasing a car. I am no expert in leasing but after having been burned on the first car I leased I learned as much as possible. Good Luck.
Went to the dealer today to put a downpayment on a '01 Black Limited with 400 miles on it. They're discounting it 5.5k from MSRP and having me pay $199 for gold badging and $699 for the wood trim (ouch). Feel the wood trim price is way too much since you can get a kit for $300. How hard is it to put this kit on yourself? I know I definetely want it since it really does look nice.
Well, Mr. Sales Mgr comes over and offers me the '01 Silver Limited with 4.9k miles on it (demo of course). Stated he would throw in the gold badging and the wood trim if I bought this one instead. Also offered me the extended bumper to bumper warranty (5yrs/50k miles) for $375. Same discount off of MSRP as the black one but since it's a demo, shouldn't it be discounted more. I'm sure this demo is something he really wants to move.
Well my fellow Seq owners and others, what would you do? Go with the Black with only 400 miles and purchase just the gold badging or go with the Silver with already 4.9k miles on it and get the other goodies thrown in. Feel hesitant about buying a demo but would like your opinions. Also not sure if the color is a big factor or not.
Thanks in advance for reading through this and your replies, which you can either post here or send to ricky_san@yahoo.com.
Let's see....some neighbor tows a 6,000lb boat with a Sequoia and somehow that's more credible than some "nut" on the internet. Clearly some of you Sequoia owners are blinded by your view that the Sequoia is the only vehicle of any worth on the road. Get over yourself guys. The Sequoia is simply another SUV, a good one, but nothing that's going to take the market by storm. The sale figures support that view and its not because Toyota can't make enough of them. It has its place as a nice people and cargo mover with light-duty towing mixed in.
Regarding towing, there is no need to listen to me although I have towed for nearly 20 years. Go talk to a dealer or better yet do some homework instead of your silly and blinded view that the Sequoia can tow a house.
Regarding the earlier poster that suggested a 5% weight on the hitch is safe, here is a site with a view that suggests you should consider more than 10% for safe towing.
Proper loading helps prevent sway. Place heavy objects on the floor ahead of the axle. Balance the load side-to-side. Secure it to prevent shifting. Tongue weight should be 10-15 percent of gross weight for most trailers. Too low a percentage of tongue weight can cause sway. NEVER load the trailer rear-heavy. LOAD THE TRAILER HEAVIER IN FRONT."
Regarding how max tow rates are calculated here's some information which would further support my view that safe long distance or regular towing should be around 80% of the max tow rating. Guys it has nothing to do with what vehicle your talking about. Those suggesting this is a GM or Ford or Toyota issue are doing a disservice to others regarding safe towing with their Sequoia.
"Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight - Is the highest possible weight of a fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a towing vehicle with mandatory options, no cargo and the driver only (150 lbs.). The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers, cargo and hitch must be deducted from this weight."
Another reason for buying a tow vehicle with a 20% "cushion" regarding tow capacity is because many people over time add "stuff" to their boat. This stuff can add up over time to hundreds of pounds. Also the weight of a boat does not include the weight of the fuel. 50 to 70 gallons of fuel in a 6000lb boat will add 350 to 500lbs to the overall weight of a boat. Throw in some coolers full of food and beer and your going to find yourself dangerously over the safe limit of the vehicle if you were using the max tow rating to start with. Add a fresh water tank and a waste water tank and these numbers will increase even more.
You would be well advised to consider a different vehicle than a Sequoia if your planning to do regular towing of a 6000lb boat. Anyone planning to tow a 6000lb boat with a Sequoia is likely to have a very unpleasant towing experience and will have a significantly higher risk of an unfortunate experience while on the road.
Stick to 80% of your tow rating to start with and 10% of your trailer's weight on the hitch and the odds will be substantially more in your favor of uneventful towing.
I really don't know much about leasing since I do not turn my cars that much. I prefer to own and hold on to my vehicle. However, my sister and her husband have always been big fans of leasing. They continually turn there vehicles every 1-2 years. They have always been big Nissan fans and the last 3 leases they have had, they were able to turn them in before their lease contract was up. On two, they paid nominal return fees between $100-200 dollars due to mileage or wear and tear. On the 3rd car, they got a refund of $900 since it was a hot selling car (I believe it was the Maxima). In all cases, they called the Nissan headquarters directly and were quoted the return fee or refund amount.
As we enter into this category, you'll discover that the weight ranges from here on begin to get a little gray. How a vehicle is equipped (gear ratio, engine and transmission), influences how much towing capacity it has. So the same vehicle model with different engines and gear ratios can result in a difference of towing capacity by 3,000 pounds or more.
For our purposes here, the medium-to-heavy-duty class of vehicle can tow 3,501-5,000 pounds (gross trailer weight). This category often encompasses dual-axle or large single-axle trailers. "
Comments
Please feel free to chastise the next Sequoia owner regarding unfounded claims on subjects you would prefer were discussed somewhere else and you won't have to hear from me. Until then your only a mouse click away.
Now, for doing all of the above, 2heeldrive has received his due punishment: sitting at the back of the class and learning the real facts about towing. Let that be a lesson to anyone else out there stupid enough to want to use their Sequoia for anything other than what Toyota recommended - light to moderate towing -
So 2heeldrive, cure us of this blasphemy of yours and re-phrase your original opinion which compared towing abilities of YOUR previously owned trucks to YOUR current vehicle....
if you do not heed this well recommended advice, you (and your side kick named 714cut from up north country) shall be banned from further using your Sequoia to tow, and certainly if you were to unfortunately use it for towing, to never report it here ever again.
Now that should do it for those "erroneous opinions" on this forum....
Can we now move on ?
p.s. It outowed my Bronco, my Windstar, my son's skateboard, and my daughter's Barbie Jeep.
The best sizing for winter tires is to
1) Match the existing overall height of the stock tires (so it doesn't change speedo, vehicle height/dynamics,.. much) but
2) Do it with a narrower tire (same vehicle weight pressing down on a narrower tire digs into the snow better).
Summary: Replacing 265/70/16 with 245/75/16 stays extremely close to the original height but will dig into the snow better. [At the cost of some dry weather grip - but we are driving an SUV, right?]. Going with a 265/75/16 as someone suggested increases the height significantly (see the simple table below). The www.tirerack.com site has excellent sizing info.
width: 265 aspect 70% Wheel diameter 16
tire_inch 7.303150 wheel_inch 8.000000 radius 15.303150 (inch)
width: 240 aspect 70% r: 14.614173 delta 0.6890 (%4.50)
width: 240 aspect 75% r: 15.086615 delta 0.2165 (%1.41)
width: 240 aspect 80% r: 15.559055 delta -0.2559 (%1.67)
width: 245 aspect 70% r: 14.751968 delta 0.5512 (%3.60)
width: 245 aspect 75% r: 15.234252 delta 0.0689 (%0.45) **
width: 245 aspect 80% r: 15.716536 delta -0.4134 (%2.70)
width: 250 aspect 70% r: 14.889764 delta 0.4134 (%2.70)
width: 250 aspect 75% r: 15.381889 delta -0.0787 (%0.51) *
width: 250 aspect 80% r: 15.874016 delta -0.5709 (%3.73)
width: 250 aspect 85% r: 16.366142 delta -1.0630 (%6.95)
width: 255 aspect 70% r: 15.027559 delta 0.2756 (%1.80)
width: 255 aspect 75% r: 15.529528 delta -0.2264 (%1.48)
width: 255 aspect 80% r: 16.031496 delta -0.7283 (%4.76)
width: 260 aspect 70% r: 15.165355 delta 0.1378 (%0.90) *
width: 260 aspect 75% r: 15.677165 delta -0.3740 (%2.44)
width: 260 aspect 80% r: 16.188976 delta -0.8858 (%5.79)
width: 265 aspect 70% r: 15.303149 delta 0.0000 (%0.00) ***
width: 265 aspect 75% r: 15.824803 delta -0.5217 (%3.41)
width: 265 aspect 80% r: 16.346457 delta -1.0433 (%6.82)
I had never thought much about it until you posted. I did notice that my front dome light does not come on when the doors are open. Like yours, only the middle and cargo lights turn on.
oac3: thank you for meting out the punishment to 2heeldrive, your such a balanced and neutral judge:)
gpm5: You'll never find any manual for any tow vehicle with any recommendation on how much should be towed. The manufacturer simply provides the maximum safe weight for a trailer being towed. I suggested you talk with those that have towed since I couldn't possibly be trusted because I currently tow with a GM product. But if you were to follow my experience and the many thousands of people that tow regularly you would find most would not want to take any tow vehicle to its max for long distance or regular towing. Not to suggest you can't however the extra margin of safety will come in handy, particularly since most folks don't tow everyday.
BTW, you'll have a hard time getting much advice from Toyota owners that tow extensively since its extremely rare to see a Toyota at a boat ramp in NJ or in many various campgrounds in NJ, PA and NY.
I tow nearly every weekend in warm weather from NW Jersey to the Shore (about 1.5-2 hours each way). I tow at least 1 or more trips a year with 6000lbs+ for 6 hours each way and have done so for the past 12 years. There are people that tow substantially more than that that I believe you'll find in agreement with the view that 80% of a tow vehicle's rating is the "comfort" zone for any tow vehicle.
I'd be happy to oblige those wishing to continue our engaging discussion on towing, it can't possibly be less stimulating than trying to figure out "where that ammonia-like smell is coming from in my Sequoia" or better yet "what's the best way to rotate my tires" debate:)
Anyway, I've decided on the Seq since I really want a truck, not a mini van (Ody) in disguise. Plus I need to tow a 4500lb boat and with all the tow discussions going on, I'm pretty "towed" out and know the Seq will handle this with ease. Had a Merc Mtn before with a V8 that didn't have any problems so I'm sure the Seq will be fine. In regards to the tow discussions, I realize it was painful for many of us to read the going back and forth about how my truck can tow more than yours but bottom line there was some useful info and you don't necessarily buy a truck with towing as your main reason. I only have one child (19 mths) and one on the way so I'm sure I'll have plenty of room. Plan on taking those 3rd seats out of there for now for more cargo space for all those toys...
Anyway, I'm making an offer tomorrow (12th) at a local dealer. They have 3 left over '01's that are discounted by 5.5k from MSRP. That ends up being under invoice for those of you who care. Have another dealer who wants my business so my plan is to see who will throw in the gold badging and wood panel. Hey, everyone wants a better deal than is being offered so what the heck. Colors to choose from are White, Thunder Gray or Black. Would love to hear from owners of each and see if their happy with their colors.
Keep the "clean" threads going and please don't worry so much about the GM guys on this forum. They all wish they had bought a Toyota hence the reason they spend all their time on this forum...
If you go back to my postings I have tried to be fair and level headed (while freely admitting I like my Sequoia very much)and simply challenging "fact based" postings when they're not fact based-like the Sequoia axle ratio.
As for towing I happen to read a lot of publications and have been towing various boats for many years. I believe I can provide a fact based perspective on this board on this subject.
Several times a year, we need a vehicle to tow our 24' boat (which weighs 5,500lb with the trailer) through the Seirra Mountains. After reading some bogus claims on this forum about Seq not suitable to pull more than 5,000 lbs., I almost changed my mind about getting the Seq. My wife was really disappointed.
Fortunately, Cliffy and others have straightened out many of those misleading/false claims. In addition, we've talked a neighbor who uses his 01 Seq to tow his 6,000lb boat/trailer combo between Tahoe and the Delta (7,000 ft elevation) frequently. He says that the Seq handles the job with fine colors.
I'd like to thank Cliffy & others who endure insults & attacks for posting the truth. I'm sure I'm not the only one who have benefited from your efforts. I've learned that the numbers & terms posted by the Seq attacker don't mean much. If he OWNS a Seq and had problems with towing, then he would be more credible. I don’t care if your Yugo or whatever GM you own, tows the Space Shuttle well. Real experience with Seq is what we are interested in.
I don't understand why either a VSC pump or axle would "grind" only on right hand turns. I'll defer to anyone with direct experience on this one!
tidester
Host
SUVs
Just re-read my post, 714cut, and you will perceive I was really on your side....(remember the smiley face at the end of it ?)... Honestly, I do appreciate your posts and have found them very helpful and informative... You have me on your side you just don't know it !
I swear not to mention the word t****** in this post so as to avoid another controversy
I'm curious to know why you're discrediting Heatwave's towing and hauling specs regarding the Sequoia? I find it difficult to believe with maximum towing established by Toyota at 6200 lbs. that your neighbor would tow a 6000 lbs. combo.
Am I missing something here?
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
If the Toyota spec is 6,000 lbs., you can be assured that you can safely tow 6,000lbs.
I'm also certain there is at least a 33% margin designed into the Sequoia spec.
Anyone that wants to lower a recommended spec by 20% should show me their engineering diploma so I can speak to their professors!
I tend to agree with cpintucson. Toyota isn't going to publish towing limits with some margins built in for good measure. Think of the liabilities that could derive from exceeding the published limit by a mere 10 pounds - plus or minus.
Obviously, the lower your towload, the better but engineers generally tend to err on the side of caution - particularly when legal liabilities are part of the equation.
tidester
Host
SUVs
I look forward to any and all comments. Feel free to email (DocRock143@aol.com)
Thanks!
Alan
Factor of safety is what we're all talking about, I think. It would be really interesting to know how that varies among the manufacturers, although the truth may never be publicly known.
Also, what ballpark range could we expect for monthly lease payments on a 36-month lease for a 2WD SR5 Sequoia?
Thanks very much!
Man - I hate when I do that! Thanks for catching it, minuteman!
tidester
Host
SUVs
Please visit my post here and throw your two cents in:
steve_ "Towing tips for SUVs" Nov 14, 2001 8:14am
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I don't know about the buyback program. I know that dealers say a lot of things that don't seem to be exactly what they mean. You probably already know that you can trade-in a leased vehicle at any time but will still have to pay the remaining payments and most likely some other fees. How this money is paid can vary but usually involves increasing the negotiated price of the new vehicle to include the payoff amount (this can be financed in the loan or paid by you in a down payment). I don't think dealers are going to payoff your lease for you. On this end, I would negotiate the everything for the new car (price, terms, etc) BEFORE you talk about trading in your leased vehicle. For anyone who wants to lease it is vitally important to understand leasing before you lease. Know the terms and how leases are calculated: MSRP, negotiated price, money factors, residual value, capitalized cost reduction, length in months, etc. There is so much information on the net and even at this site. If you have questions, post in the "Ask Lease Questions" board. To get an idea of lease payments and rates check out sites like www.leasecompare.com and get info at sites like www.leasespy.com. Also, download a lease calculator like "The Car Lease Calculator". As you know from this site, knowledge is key when buying and especially leasing a car. I am no expert in leasing but after having been burned on the first car I leased I learned as much as possible. Good Luck.
Well, Mr. Sales Mgr comes over and offers me the '01 Silver Limited with 4.9k miles on it (demo of course). Stated he would throw in the gold badging and the wood trim if I bought this one instead. Also offered me the extended bumper to bumper warranty (5yrs/50k miles) for $375. Same discount off of MSRP as the black one but since it's a demo, shouldn't it be discounted more. I'm sure this demo is something he really wants to move.
Well my fellow Seq owners and others, what would you do? Go with the Black with only 400 miles and purchase just the gold badging or go with the Silver with already 4.9k miles on it and get the other goodies thrown in. Feel hesitant about buying a demo but would like your opinions. Also not sure if the color is a big factor or not.
Thanks in advance for reading through this and your replies, which you can either post here or send to ricky_san@yahoo.com.
Regarding towing, there is no need to listen to me although I have towed for nearly 20 years. Go talk to a dealer or better yet do some homework instead of your silly and blinded view that the Sequoia can tow a house.
Regarding the earlier poster that suggested a 5% weight on the hitch is safe, here is a site with a view that suggests you should consider more than 10% for safe towing.
<http://www.drawtite.com/important_towing_information.htm>
"Trailer Loading
Proper loading helps prevent sway. Place heavy objects on the floor ahead of the axle. Balance the load side-to-side. Secure it to prevent shifting. Tongue weight should be 10-15 percent of gross weight for most trailers. Too low a percentage of tongue weight can cause sway. NEVER load the trailer rear-heavy. LOAD THE TRAILER HEAVIER IN FRONT."
Regarding how max tow rates are calculated here's some information which would further support my view that safe long distance or regular towing should be around 80% of the max tow rating. Guys it has nothing to do with what vehicle your talking about. Those suggesting this is a GM or Ford or Toyota issue are doing a disservice to others regarding safe towing with their Sequoia.
"Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight - Is the highest possible weight of a fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a towing vehicle with mandatory options, no cargo and the driver only (150 lbs.). The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers, cargo and hitch must be deducted from this weight."
<http://www.pvrentals.com/towing_tips.html>
Another reason for buying a tow vehicle with a 20% "cushion" regarding tow capacity is because many people over time add "stuff" to their boat. This stuff can add up over time to hundreds of pounds. Also the weight of a boat does not include the weight of the fuel. 50 to 70 gallons of fuel in a 6000lb boat will add 350 to 500lbs to the overall weight of a boat. Throw in some coolers full of food and beer and your going to find yourself dangerously over the safe limit of the vehicle if you were using the max tow rating to start with. Add a fresh water tank and a waste water tank and these numbers will increase even more.
You would be well advised to consider a different vehicle than a Sequoia if your planning to do regular towing of a 6000lb boat. Anyone planning to tow a 6000lb boat with a Sequoia is likely to have a very unpleasant towing experience and will have a significantly higher risk of an unfortunate experience while on the road.
Stick to 80% of your tow rating to start with and 10% of your trailer's weight on the hitch and the odds will be substantially more in your favor of uneventful towing.
http://www.woodalls.com/rvs/advice/towvtips.html
"Medium-To-Heavy-Duty
As we enter into this category, you'll discover that the weight ranges from here on begin to get a little gray. How a vehicle is equipped (gear ratio, engine and transmission), influences how much towing capacity it has. So the same vehicle model with different engines and gear ratios can result in a difference of towing capacity by 3,000 pounds or more.
For our purposes here, the medium-to-heavy-duty class of vehicle can tow 3,501-5,000 pounds (gross trailer weight). This category often encompasses dual-axle or large single-axle trailers. "