Which Van?

[Roger Will]

We have just purchased a 21' boat. Weight is about 2800 lbs., including boat, motor and trailer. We are retired, and really don't want a SUV or a pickup. Would really like to purchase a 2 year old, low milage mini-van. Is there one that will handle this load?

 

[JB]

Re: Which Van?

Howdy Roger. In my opinion, no. I think you will need a strong V8 to pull that load up hills and to retrieve it on steep ramps. That means a large van, big utility vehicle, full size pickup or full size sedan.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB

 

[MIKE F]

Re: Which Van?

I think the only mini vans that might work in this case are the Chevy Astro with trailer towing package(5,000 lb rating?) and possibly (believe it or not) the Mazda MPV which i think is rated for 4500# <br />Are you sure about that weight? Seems kinda low for a 21'er,motor and trailer.

 

[Navigator]

Re: Which Van?

rogerwont,<br />You always want to pull heavy trailers with a rear wheel drive vehicle. Front wheel drive transaxles typically cant handle the strain because they were not designed to. Also you back down a steep ramp with a front Wheel drive and try to pull the boat out, you'll see a cloud of smoke as you spin the front tires. The weight/angle of the boat/ramp will decrease the weight on the front end of the vehicle and cause you to loose traction and spin.<br /><br />The Safari (or Astro) is probably your best choice. <br /><br />Nav

 

[Ranger354]

Re: Which Van?

I have to agree with the Chevy Asto Van. Got a buddy that uses his for everything. He had my 16' utitlity trailer loaded to the gills with fire wood and the van walked off with it.<br /> <br />He also pulls his 21' speed boat to the lake all the time.

 

[6MISFITZ]

Re: Which Van?

I tow my 22 Bayliner with my Chev. Astro and it tows fine. <br />Make sure if you do buy a minivan, make sure it comes with a trailer towing package.<br />Limited slip and 3.73 axle make the all the difference pulling up the ramps and in the hills. <br />No matter what you do tow with, make sure your trailer brakes are in good working condition!!!

 

[skier]

Re: Which Van?

If you do get a Minivan, Chev Astro is the only choice (And I am Ford Man). Make sure it had the 4.3L and a 3.73 rear end ratio. I would go for a full size van with a 350 (Chev) or a 351 (Ford) with either of the two you can get a way with a taller gear (3.50) and you will also get better non-towing mileage.<br /><br />Good luck on your choice