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Fuel4Humans
Newbie
Joined: 08 May 2015
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Posts: 17
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Topic: Newbie needs your help!! (Tow vehicle tips) Posted: 19 May 2015 at 6:15pm |
Thanks ToolmanJohn! How do I calculate the ft-lb capacity? I am currently looking at a Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 5.7L v8 Hemi engine and towing capacity of 7200lbs but I have no idea how to calculate the Lb-ft thing!
thanks for all the help here!! i REALLY appreciate it - its a steep learning curve for me right now!
smiles
Renata
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techntrek
Admin Group - pHp
Joined: 29 Jul 2009
Location: MD
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Posts: 9065
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Posted: 19 May 2015 at 6:23pm |
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Check the manufacturer's website for the hp and torque ratings. When shopping for a tow vehicle remember torque is more important that horsepower. And wheelbase is important too, the longer the better for stability.
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Doug ~ '98 Coleman ('05-'09) ~ '10 171 ('09-'15) ~ 2008 Salem ('14-'23) ~ 2019 Keystone ('23-now) ~
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Fuel4Humans
Newbie
Joined: 08 May 2015
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Posted: 19 May 2015 at 6:28pm |
Hi john! is your Grand Cherokee a V8?
that's what i'm contemplating right now.. and i need to make a decision soon here as I am scheduled to leave on a little hang-gliding tour in late june and i will have to instal a hang-gliding rack on the car as well!
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Peanut
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Joined: 03 Apr 2013
Location: Hale Center,Tx
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Posted: 19 May 2015 at 6:35pm |
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I have a 172 and tow with a 2009 Xterra 4.0 L. I have been satisfied with its performance. Up hill and hot weather never is an issue. The worst is headwinds. I usuall travel 55-60 and have got 10-14 mpg. I would say my average is 11. Amazing how much drag headwinds put on it.
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09 RP172
09 Nissan Xterra
Ron,Kathy, Coco 11yr Choc Lab
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Fuel4Humans
Newbie
Joined: 08 May 2015
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Posted: 19 May 2015 at 7:20pm |
Ok Looks like the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo has 334 ft-lb and the overland has 375 ft-lb
the wheelbase is not that great but im planning on adding a sway and weight distribution system... so i think i'll be OK
anyone out there towing with Jeep GC Overland?
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ToolmanJohn
Senior Member
Joined: 23 Apr 2014
Location: Connecticut
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Posted: 19 May 2015 at 8:01pm |
The engine specs can be found at most car websites. If you know the year make and model and engine sizes, the specs for horsepower and torque will be easy to find. Both Jeeps have more than enough torque, and are probably V8 engines.
Very few non-turbo gas V6 engines have more than 300 ft-lb of torque.
Make certain to test drive, and get the towing specs for any vehicle you have an interest in.
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2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler
2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD)
2013 VW Touareg TDI
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john in idaho
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Joined: 04 Nov 2014
Location: Eagle Idaho
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Posted: 20 May 2015 at 10:27am |
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Yes it is a V8 but it is a 2002 model with close to 100k miles. The newer ones probably tow better. But this one is still OK, just like the truck better.
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