What tow vehicle for trailering my JK?
#1
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
What tow vehicle for trailering my JK?
I have a modified JK that is my daily driver that I hope to turn into a trailer princess one day. But I am having trouble identifying a budget friendly tow vehicle that will become my more-often-than-not DD.
I live in NE Ohio, and the terrain is mostly flat, but taking the Jeep out to Moab, Colorado and the Rubicon are on my bucket list. I also take the Jeep into PA, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee. Looking forward to visiting the US Northeast.
I'm trying to keep my total spend between $12K and $15K, which I know won't get me anything near current. And I'm fine with an older truck.
I like they styling of the F-150 crew cab over the other manufacturers, but I am open to other models. The trouble is identifying an engine and transmission combination that would work well as a tow vehicle. I know there are some combinations that are much less than ideal.
I am looking for some help in figuring out what to start looking for. I have some time before the funds will be freed up to pull the trigger.
Thanks in advance.
I live in NE Ohio, and the terrain is mostly flat, but taking the Jeep out to Moab, Colorado and the Rubicon are on my bucket list. I also take the Jeep into PA, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee. Looking forward to visiting the US Northeast.
I'm trying to keep my total spend between $12K and $15K, which I know won't get me anything near current. And I'm fine with an older truck.
I like they styling of the F-150 crew cab over the other manufacturers, but I am open to other models. The trouble is identifying an engine and transmission combination that would work well as a tow vehicle. I know there are some combinations that are much less than ideal.
I am looking for some help in figuring out what to start looking for. I have some time before the funds will be freed up to pull the trigger.
Thanks in advance.
#2
JK Super Freak
I have a modified JK that is my daily driver that I hope to turn into a trailer princess one day. But I am having trouble identifying a budget friendly tow vehicle that will become my more-often-than-not DD. I live in NE Ohio, and the terrain is mostly flat, but taking the Jeep out to Moab, Colorado and the Rubicon are on my bucket list. I also take the Jeep into PA, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee. Looking forward to visiting the US Northeast. I'm trying to keep my total spend between $12K and $15K, which I know won't get me anything near current. And I'm fine with an older truck. I like they styling of the F-150 crew cab over the other manufacturers, but I am open to other models. The trouble is identifying an engine and transmission combination that would work well as a tow vehicle. I know there are some combinations that are much less than ideal. I am looking for some help in figuring out what to start looking for. I have some time before the funds will be freed up to pull the trigger. Thanks in advance.
#3
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
I appreciate the feedback. But I never asked for what would be "best". Just looking for options. The most valuable information may be what to avoid. I recall a conversation I had with someone a long time ago where it was mentioned that certain years of F150s had engines or transmissions that would not less than ideal for towing a JK on a 10K rated trailer, especially in hilly terrain or the mountains. But I don't remember any of the specifics.
#4
JK Junkie
I'm helping my son shop for a truck. I'm partial to the early 1990's vintage diesels. I've recently found a couple of low mile single owner dodge diesels from 1993 for around $15k. They looked sweet and would be able to tow. Another option - the ford ecoboost is a towing beast and makes for a great DD, though a bit above for budget.
#5
JK Jedi
Personally I would not do anything less then a 3/4 ton diesel for a tow rig but with that budget its going to be tough. You might find some late 90's or early 2000's in 2wd for your budget, I would expect over 200,000 miles on them as well.