Camper Pulling Power: Can The Toyota Tacoma Deliver?

The Toyota Tacoma is a medium-sized pickup truck with strong off-roading capabilities and a robust engine. With a maximum rated towing capacity of 6,400 pounds, it can tow a variety of trailers, campers, and boats. However, it's important to consider factors such as tongue weight, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and gross combined vehicle weight rating (GCVWR) to ensure safe towing within the recommended limits. While the Tacoma has impressive towing capabilities, it's essential to stay within the specified weight limits and consider the impact of wind resistance and frontal area drag when selecting a trailer or camper.

The Toyota Tacoma's towing capacity

The Toyota Tacoma is a versatile midsize pickup truck with a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. This makes it a great choice for towing small trailers, pop-up campers, boats, and ATVs. The Tacoma's towing capacity depends on the selected powertrain, cab style, bed size, and drivetrain. For example, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 and TRD PreRunner models offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds when properly equipped with the i-FORCE engine, two-wheel drive, an automatic transmission, and the Toyota Tacoma tow package.

The Toyota Tacoma has two engine options: the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine and the i-FORCE MAX 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 hybrid powertrain. The i-FORCE engine delivers 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Tacoma to offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The i-FORCE MAX engine ups the performance to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, but the towing capacity is slightly lower at 6,000 pounds.

The cab style and bed size also impact the towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma. The XtraCab and Double Cab options are available, with the XtraCab style providing a higher maximum towing capacity. Additionally, the drivetrain can affect the towing capacity, with two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (4WD) options available.

The Toyota Tacoma tow package adds essential features for maximizing the towing capacity. It includes a Class-IV towing hitch receiver, a wiring harness with a four-pin/seven-pin connector, and other equipment. With the tow package and the proper configuration, the Toyota Tacoma can confidently pull trailers and campers within its maximum towing capacity.

It is important to consider the weight of the camper or trailer you plan to tow and ensure it does not exceed the Tacoma's maximum towing capacity. Additionally, factors such as passengers, gear, and cargo weight should be taken into account when determining the towing capacity you need. While the Toyota Tacoma has impressive towing capabilities, it is important to stay within safe limits and not overload the vehicle.

Camper weight and size considerations

When it comes to camper weight and size considerations, several factors come into play. Firstly, it's important to understand the towing capacity of your Toyota Tacoma, which can range from 3,500 lbs to 6,800 lbs depending on the model and engine type. The V6 engine has a higher towing capacity than the four-cylinder engine.

Secondly, you need to consider the weight of the camper itself. The dry weight or unloaded weight of the camper is important, as it forms the basis for calculating the total weight when loaded. It's recommended to stay within 20 to 35 percent below the maximum towing capacity to ensure safety and legality.

Thirdly, the tongue weight or hitch weight is crucial. This is the force exerted on the tow vehicle's hitch and should be around 10-15% of the gross trailer weight. Too little tongue weight can cause trailer sway, while too much can make steering difficult. Finding the right balance is essential for stability.

Additionally, the payload weight, which includes cargo, passengers, and tongue weight, needs to be considered. The average payload for a Toyota Tacoma is around 2,000 lbs, so if you have 1,000 lbs of passengers and gear, that leaves 1,000 lbs for tongue weight.

Finally, it's important to remember that towing more than the recommended capacity is illegal and unsafe. It can lead to poor braking, excessive strain on the vehicle, and loss of control. Always refer to the owner's manual for specific towing guidelines for your Toyota Tacoma model.

Additional equipment for towing

When towing a camper, there are several pieces of additional equipment that you may need to ensure your setup is safe and secure. Here is a list of essential and optional equipment to consider:

Essential Equipment:

• Hitch assembly: This includes the hitch receiver, ball mount, ball, and wiring harness. The hitch receiver is mounted to the frame of the tow vehicle, and a travel trailer typically requires a Class III, IV, or V hitch. The ball mount and ball slide into the receiver and are secured with a pin. The correct size and weight rating of the ball hitch are crucial, with most travel trailers requiring a 2 5/16 ball.
• Wiring harness: This connects the power supply from the tow vehicle to the trailer, powering components such as lights and trailer brakes. Ensure your wiring harness is compatible with your vehicle and trailer and is plugged in securely.
• Trailer brake controller: Separate trailer brakes are required for any trailer over 3,000 pounds. The brake controller is mounted inside the vehicle and connected to the towing vehicle's braking system, allowing you to engage the trailer's electrical braking system.
• Safety accessories: Consider investing in a hitch lock to prevent theft and wheel chocks to secure the trailer's wheels when parked. These accessories will provide peace of mind and ensure your trailer remains secure when not in use.

Optional Equipment:

• Weight distribution hitch and sway bar: This system helps distribute weight evenly across the trailer and tow vehicle, improving stability and towing performance. It is not required but can be beneficial, especially for larger or heavier trailers.
• Electric tongue jack: This jack supports the trailer when it is not connected to the tow vehicle and can be raised or lowered manually or with an electric motor. While some trailers come with an electric tongue jack, others may require manual cranking.
• Transmission cooler: Towing, especially for long distances or in challenging conditions, can stress your engine and transmission. A transmission cooler helps regulate the temperature and improve efficiency, reducing the risk of overheating.
• Transmission temperature gauge: This gauge allows you to monitor the transmission fluid temperature while driving, helping you stay within the optimal range of 175 to 225 degrees F. It can be a valuable addition to your dashboard, providing real-time insights into your vehicle's performance.
• Engine tuner or programmer: While your vehicle's engine may be capable of towing, an engine tuner or programmer can provide extra power and torque when towing, especially for diesel engines. It can also provide additional benefits, such as reading engine codes when the check engine light comes on.
• Backup cameras: Adding backup cameras to both the tow vehicle and the camper can significantly improve visibility when reversing and make it easier to align the ball and hitch. This can reduce the stress and hassle of backing up and connecting your trailer.

Fuel efficiency when towing

Fuel efficiency is a key consideration when towing with a Toyota Tacoma. Several factors influence the fuel economy when using a Tacoma for towing, and understanding these factors can help optimise fuel efficiency.

Firstly, the weight of the load is significant. The heavier the load, the more fuel the Tacoma will consume. This is a simple case of increased weight requiring increased engine effort, which in turn requires more fuel. It is important to consider not only the weight of the camper or trailer but also the weight of additional cargo, water, passengers, and other factors. For example, one Tacoma owner reported that their camper's weight, when including water and cargo, totalled 5800-6000 lbs, which is significantly more than the dry weight of 4800 lbs.

Secondly, wind resistance and drag play a crucial role in fuel efficiency. The larger the cross-sectional area of the trailer or camper, the greater the wind resistance, leading to reduced fuel economy. This means that the shape and size of the trailer can have a substantial impact on fuel efficiency, with more aerodynamic designs potentially offering better fuel economy.

Additionally, speed and driving conditions influence fuel efficiency when towing with a Tacoma. Driving at higher speeds increases fuel consumption, and maintaining a slower and more consistent speed can help optimise fuel economy. Driving conditions that involve frequent stops, starts, and downhill/uphill sections can also impact fuel efficiency. One Tacoma owner reported achieving 16-18L/100km (13-15 MPG) while towing a boat/trailer combination, with the mountainous terrain contributing to the reduced fuel economy.

Furthermore, the use of overdrive or higher gears can impact fuel efficiency. Some Tacoma owners have reported recommendations to avoid using overdrive while towing, which can result in staying out of overdrive and utilising higher gears instead. This can lead to increased engine revs and fuel consumption.

Finally, it is worth noting that individual driving habits can also influence fuel efficiency when towing. Aggressive driving, excessive speeding, and rapid acceleration can all contribute to reduced fuel economy. A more conservative driving style, including slower speeds and earlier braking, can help improve fuel efficiency when towing with a Tacoma.

In summary, optimising fuel efficiency when towing with a Toyota Tacoma involves considering the weight of the load, minimising wind resistance and drag, maintaining slower and more consistent speeds, using appropriate gears, and adopting a conservative driving style. By taking these factors into account, Tacoma owners can make informed decisions to improve their fuel economy while safely enjoying their vehicles for towing and camping adventures.

Tacoma owners' experiences with towing

There are a variety of experiences that Tacoma owners have had with towing.

One Tacoma owner has a 2014 TRD Off Road with a towing package and a trailer brake. They have towed a 21' camper that weighed 5000 lbs fully loaded. They used a weight-distributing hitch and felt that they would not tow anything heavier than 5000 lbs for a significant distance. They also stated that a WDH (weight distribution hitch) would be absolutely necessary for towing more and that it would still feel sketchy.

Another owner has a 2019 Tacoma TRD Sport and towed a 320. They stated that the Tacoma has adequate horsepower and torque to tow the 320, but the 6-speed transmission constantly downshifted to maintain speed on straightaways if there was a slight headwind. They also noted that the gas mileage while towing was between 2-5 mpg.

A third owner has a 2016 Tacoma TRD Off Road 4X4 double cab with a 3.5L V6 engine and a tow package. They have towed a 2006 2720 into the Rockies and over some passes. They stated that they could not do the speed limit on the steeper uphills but watched the RPMs and felt comfortable. They also used a weight distribution hitch and noted that the Tacoma has a very comfortable ride.

A fourth owner has a 2019 Tacoma and towed a 2619 Trailmanor. They stated that the Tacoma pulled the trailer very well and rode well even with a load of camping gear. They also noted that they previously towed a much larger trailer that weighed 6000 lbs loaded and the Tacoma handled it, but there was a big hit to the MPG.

A fifth owner has a 2020 Tacoma and towed a T@B 400 Boondock. They stated that they got around 11 mpg while towing in central Texas, where there are no mountains. They also noted that they would need to be careful with packing due to the low payload capacity of the Tacoma.

A sixth owner has a 2020 Tacoma and towed a Tab 400. They stated that they were often in the mountains and on back roads and while they were sometimes in the slow lane going up big hills and passed by bigger trucks, they had no problems pulling the Tab. They added extra suspension to the back end, such as another leaf spring, airbags, or sumo springs.

A seventh owner has a 2018 Tacoma SR V6 3.5L and towed a 2020 Tab 400. They stated that they got 15 mpg in the lowlands and 13 mpg in the hills while towing. They also noted that they would need to be careful with packing due to the low payload capacity of the Tacoma.

An eighth owner has a 2020 Tacoma and towed a 2021 Tab 400 Boondock. They stated that they got around 9-12 mpg while towing in the Rocky Mountains. They also noted that the Tacoma handled it but sounded like it was screaming and overworking on steep climbs.

A ninth owner has a 2015 Tacoma V6 4x4 and towed a 2019 T@B 400 Boondock Lite. They stated that they got 8 mpg at approximately 10,000' and 11-14 mpg in the Midwest and taking the Southern I-10 route to Arizona. They also noted that they traded the Tacoma for a 2019 Ford F-150 due to the difference in height between the Tacoma and the 400, which created a lot of wind drag.

A tenth owner has a 2010/2020 Tacoma and stated that the recommended maximum travel trailer weight for a Tacoma is 3,400 to 3,740 lbs, fully loaded, including gear and liquids. They also noted that wind drag created by the front area of the trailer should be considered when towing.

An eleventh owner has a 2018 Tacoma and towed a 25' double-axle boat/trailer weighing 5300 lbs. They stated that it was a 3-hour trip 2x a year and while they did not look forward to it, they had done it for 10+ years without any issues.

A twelfth owner has a 2020 Tacoma TRD Off Road V6 with a towing capacity of 6700 lbs. They were considering towing a camper that weighed 4800 lbs dry but would likely be closer to 6000 lbs total with water and cargo. They were concerned about cutting it too close to the towing capacity and wanted to know if anyone had experience towing something with similar specs.

A thirteenth owner has a 2018 Tacoma SR V6 3.5L and towed a 2020 Tab 400. They stated that they got 15 mpg in the lowlands and 13 mpg in the hills while towing. They also noted that they would be more comfortable with a larger truck for long-distance trips but that the Tacoma was great for short-distance weekend trips.

A fourteenth owner has a 2020 Tacoma and towed a 2021 Tab 400 Boondock. They stated that they got around 9-12 mpg while towing in the Rocky Mountains. They also noted that the Tacoma handled it but sounded like it was screaming and overworking on steep climbs.

A fifteenth owner has a 2014 Tacoma and towed a 2014 T@B S Max for 3 years with no problems. They added Firestone airbags to the rear end due to the excessive squatting that Tacomas are known for.

A sixteenth owner has a 2020 Tacoma and towed a 2021 Tab 400 Boondock. They stated that they got around 11 mpg while towing in central Texas, where there are no mountains. They also noted that they would be careful with packing due to the low payload capacity of the Tacoma.

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