Pushing The Limits On Tow Vehicles

I thought I would find my answer on this forum existing already but since I didn't see exactly what I am looking for I will post it here.

I have 2016 R178 that at most when loaded up is 3k lb (don't carry anything in the tanks) and TV 2003 Toyota 4Runner 4.0L V6 with 5k lb tow rating. The TV will have supplies and our family but less than max allowed weight. I use a Blue Ox Sway Pro WDH.

I am conflicted by all the people I see on this forum and elsewhere that have less towing power that say they do perfectly fine with no issues. Either they only travel on flat land, I have unreasonable expectations, my rig has issues or it's truly not enough power to tow what I have. Talking to others most say my rig should handle towing just fine even in the mountains and it does go well just not on the passes or steep hills.

For example going over the Oregon Coast range that I would not consider a real steep grade when I hit a hill I need to push my RPMs up to 3400 to 3800 just to stay in the 50 to 54 mph range. Above 54/55 mph is not an option as I am already pushing hard on the pedal just to stay in the 50's. If I want to keep it sub 3000 RPM then I am doing like 45 to 49 mph getting a long string of cars behind me on the single lanes.

Should I be able to go faster on the hills? Are my expectations not realistic? Is it okay pushing the RMPs to the 3500 to 4000 for short bursts to get up hills? I don't want to go real fast. I know towing a trailer is something to be more cautious about yet want to go a reasonable speed.

I am debating replacing my 4.0L V6 4Runner for a 4.7L V8 4Runner and don't know if that additional torque and tow capacity will help a lot on the hills? I know HP is not more on the V8. I don't want to get a pickup and love my 4Runner so would prefer to keep it.

Besides the Rpod my only prior experience towing was years ago owning a wave runner so this is a new territory for me! Thanks for any advice anyone reading this has.

The tow vehicle debate is one that will go on forever. What you describe is what I would expect from your vehicle. I don't think there are any "problems".

With a V6, one is at the minimal end of towing capability. Couple this with terrain that you drive in and, yes, you'll be pushing the vehicle hard. I doubt going with the small V8 (mentioned) would gain you a lot, for the money spent. Think bigger/more motor, if you intend to replace your present vehicle.

When it comes to TVs, there is what will work and there is what will work well. Some are fine with turning high RPMs and 40-45 MPH on the interstate. Others have no choice. They have what they have - until something else can be purchased.

Not sure what the differences are, but we tow with a 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0L and have no complaints.

We pull our 179 with a 2012 Highlander with a 3.5L V6 and towing package, and it will handle grades up to 8% without much trouble. We took a trip to central WV this spring and the TV was able to maintain the speed limit on every grade except two 8-9% grades. Even then, it did pretty well.

For TheBum... it sounds like the Highlander is working out well. What kind of RPMs are at when climbing these hills?

For fwunder it seems you have a very similar setup to mine and you re traveling ALL over! The only thing I can think of is your 4Runner is 5 speed and mine is 4 speed. Doesn't seem that would make a big difference. I must be overly cautious on how much I am pushing it on the hills.

Thanks for all the comments. It's very helpful.