What did you do with your Tundra or Sequoia this weekend?

[kbahus]

I appreciate all of the info! I did weight the trailer when I picked it up so I could register in Michigan. With the weight distribution hitch hooked up and not even close to being adjusted right it was 5800lbs on the trailer axles and I was 200lbs over on the rear axle weight. Since then I have adjusted the weight distribution hitch per the instructions, although it might need more adjustment. I do have the RAS rear helper springs. I fully intended to hit the scales again, but with all of the set backs during the trip I didn't take the time to mess with it. It didn't tow bad per say, but I know a full size 3/4 or 1 ton will be much better. I hate getting rid of this Tundra as I have spent a lot of time and money getting it to where I want and it fits my needs 100% unless I am hooked up to this camper. Family of 5 and a dog can't go any smaller

 

[Broski]

I appreciate all of the info! I did weight the trailer when I picked it up so I could register in Michigan. With the weight distribution hitch hooked up and not even close to being adjusted right it was 5800lbs on the trailer axles and I was 200lbs over on the rear axle weight. Since then I have adjusted the weight distribution hitch per the instructions, although it might need more adjustment. I do have the RAS rear helper springs. I fully intended to hit the scales again, but with all of the set backs during the trip I didn't take the time to mess with it. It didn't tow bad per se, but I know a full size 3/4 or 1 ton will be much better. I hate getting rid of this Tundra as I have spent a lot of time and money getting it to where I want and it fits my needs 100% unless I am hooked up to this camper. Family of 5 and a dog can't go any smaller

Make the move to 10 ply tires and up grade your shocks.
You will be happy you did ! It’s a lot cheaper than a new truck.
And you will noticed the difference with and without the trailer.
I run them on my DD first gen Tundra and wouldn’t run anything less.
I always say it turns it into a sport truck !

I have 1ton super duty diesel for my RV needs so the most the Tundra see’s is some utility trailer action.

 

[LX Cruiser]

Trying to weigh the value of buying a bigger truck, but I am just not sure if it will help or what to do. The Tundra got blown around pretty good, fuel mileage was 7-9mpg at 60-65mpg which made for many stops, and getting constantly passed by semi's is just no fun.

The biggest difference will be buying a diesel and a 5th wheel. Those pull really nice. Bumper-pull trailers in high winds are always going to kind of suck, even when you are pulling with a bigger, heavier truck.

The Tundra is pretty heavy itself. But the squat in that pic shows that you’re taking weight off the steer axle, which is always bad for handling, and the problem is compounded in wind.

I would just say to get your setup properly dialed in before making the jump because that picture isn’t optimal.

 

[CaptRussia253]

The biggest difference will be buying a diesel and a 5th wheel. Those pull really nice. Bumper-pull trailers in high winds are always going to kind of suck, even when you are pulling with a bigger, heavier truck.

The Tundra is pretty heavy itself. But the squat in that pic shows that you’re taking weight off the steer axle, which is always bad for handling, and the problem is compounded in wind.

I would just say to get your setup properly dialed in before making the jump because that picture isn’t optimal.

This!

I should mention I tow a pretty large trailer with the tundra. I added airbags with daystar cradles and it helped out a lot. Just make sure you set the air lines separately from each bag.

I ride around with about 10 psi when not towing and bump it up to 40-50 psi when towing. When I get to camp and unhook the trailer I lower it back to 10 psi to drive around. I bring a bike tire pump that takes maybe 3-4 pumps to get it back 40-50. No need for an air compressor.

 

[banjo1981]

I have the helper bags as well. Makes a huge difference. But I wish the previous owner hadn’t installed a spacer lift in the front, it would tow way better.

I’m about to start on my water pump, radiator, belt, belt tensioner & idler pulley. You know what they say, knuckles aren’t going to bust themselves.

Update: 30 minutes in.

Finished. Hopefully that fixes the issue.

 

[Broski]

The biggest difference will be buying a diesel and a 5th wheel. Those pull really nice. Bumper-pull trailers in high winds are always going to kind of suck, even when you are pulling with a bigger, heavier truck.

The Tundra is pretty heavy itself. But the squat in that pic shows that you’re taking weight off the steer axle, which is always bad for handling, and the problem is compounded in wind.

I would just say to get your setup properly dialed in before making the jump because that picture isn’t optimal.

I’m going to say it again 10 ply E rated tires
Ya the tundra is heavy but it’s still on light truck tires
When you step up to a 3/4 - 1ton they have 10ply E rated tires
Putting 10ply E rated tires on will offer the best bang for the buck on a half ton truck. Besides of course helper springs or air bags.
Personally I like active springs over air bags.
They don’t affect the ride when unloaded and help with sway as well as load.
Install them and forget them no airing up and down.

 

[kbahus]

I will keep my eyes open for some E-rated tires to try, I think I have reached the point of diminishing returns though. Our old camper was a 3500lb offroad model that I built the truck around. I have Fox TRD Pro shocks, RAS SD kit, RCI bumper, skids, Decked drawers, etc etc. Basically everything that adds weight and reduces capacity. Tires are 315/70R17 C Rated 2500lb capacity tires which I am very pleased with. The truck does get offroad use unlike a typical mall crawler. The Nash is only 25' long, it's not a monster by any means, max weight is 7000lbs.

I started hunting for a bigger truck. The Ram Powerwagon has peaked my interest, but the capacity isn't great on that model. Everything in my budget has a lot of miles, the diesels are probably former hot shot rigs so it's just a big roll of the dice. No manufacturer makes the perfect truck, that I can be 100% certain of!

 

[LX Cruiser]

This!

I should mention I tow a pretty large trailer with the tundra. I added airbags with daystar cradles and it helped out a lot. Just make sure you set the air lines separately from each bag.

I ride around with about 10 psi when not towing and bump it up to 40-50 psi when towing. When I get to camp and unhook the trailer I lower it back to 10 psi to drive around. I bring a bike tire pump that takes maybe 3-4 pumps to get it back 40-50. No need for an air compressor.

View attachment 4114973

Do you still have the stock leafs?

 

[LX Cruiser]

The Ram Powerwagon has peaked my interest, but the capacity isn't great on that model. Everything in my budget has a lot of miles, the diesels are probably former hot shot rigs so it's just a big roll of the dice. No manufacturer makes the perfect truck, that I can be 100% certain of!

The truck you currently have is the closest you’ll get to perfection.

The PW has super low payload due to the soft suspension, disconnecting sway bars, etc. It’s a lateral move from a half ton when it comes to towing.

I would still dial your rig in the rest of the way before making the jump. People pull 7k 25 footers (and bigger) without difficulty with the 5.7 Tundra. People pull this size with a 200 series. You just really need to dial it in. Squat + wind + comfy sidewall tires makes for a miserable experience.

I mean you didn’t need to say anything, just post that pic, and we would all know you had a terrible time pulling that trailer.

 

[vtl]

I will keep my eyes open for some E-rated tires to try, I think I have reached the point of diminishing returns though. Our old camper was a 3500lb offroad model that I built the truck around. I have Fox TRD Pro shocks, RAS SD kit, RCI bumper, skids, Decked drawers, etc etc. Basically everything that adds weight and reduces capacity. Tires are 315/70R17 C Rated 2500lb capacity tires which I am very pleased with. The truck does get offroad use unlike a typical mall crawler. The Nash is only 25' long, it's not a monster by any means, max weight is 7000lbs.

I started hunting for a bigger truck. The Ram Powerwagon has peaked my interest, but the capacity isn't great on that model. Everything in my budget has a lot of miles, the diesels are probably former hot shot rigs so it's just a big roll of the dice. No manufacturer makes the perfect truck, that I can be 100% certain of!

Spend an evening and make an Excel table comparing $$$ in your options. It's not unlikely Tundra will still get cheaper at the end. Every dollar saved and invested now is your blissful retirement years earlier. Camping out as much as you want before arthritis gets us all.

I smile every time I see an F150 in front of me, for example. What a puny pinion gears it has in rear diff... Hell yeah I'd want to be in a 3/4 or 1 ton truck if I drove an F150.

 

[CaptRussia253]

Do you still have the stock leafs?

No. I have the OME leaf pack.

 

[CaptRussia253]

Beach day! We had perfect weather. I tested the lsd and it was nice going sideways

 

[The Machinist]

In my opinion, a second gen Tundra is perfect for towing anything sub 10k. But as others have stated, a few changes should be made to make it feel effortless. I have a 2021 SR5 that I use as a daily driver (when I'm not using one of the older trucks), and as a tow rig for when I take the "crawler" truck out for longer distance trips. The only things I've changed on it are the rear shocks (stock ones on the SR5 were literal garbage... they now live on the front of my '82 pickup), I added a set of Sumo Spring helper springs, and swapped out the stock "P" rated tires for some "E" rated 33's.

The only thing I have to complain about is the fuel economy and the small fuel tank on the SR5 and lower trim packages. 20 gallons is not even remotely enough when towing with a V8 in the western US! Less of a factor, but something noteworthy, is that If you have towed or hauled heavy with a 2500 or 3500, the lack of engine/transmission braking on the 1/2-ton Tundra is substantial. (especially noticeable if you are an idiot like me and left the trailer brake gain at 0.0... )

Last summer I towed my 1982 pickup down to Rubithon and the Tundra kicked ass. Before Rubithon I spent a week fishing with my Dad in the Eastern Sierra and we went over several very steep passes along the way; I was passing RV's with power to spare. My 1982 pickup weighs in at about 4200# and my trailer is ~2000#. Over christmas break I towed a 1996 Hilux Surf from Reno to Boise with similar results. The Hilux was noticeably heavier, (rain/snow soaked interior, diesel/auto drivetrain, etc and I loaded it a bit tail heavy.... still towed very well.

 

[SAH]

Before, during, and after. Truck has 255k on it so my used TRD Pro struts were a great fit. Had to pump up the rear airlift bags to level it out. Part two of the improvements coming later this week….

 

[LX Cruiser]

stock ones on the SR5 were literal garbage

The intention with the factory leafs is comfort and articulation. With an open rear diff, it is imperative to keep both rear wheels on the ground for traction. They flex a LOT, which is great if you’re off-roading with an empty bed, but they suffer in just about any other context.

the small fuel tank on the SR5 and lower trim packages. 20 gallons is not even remotely enough when towing with a V8 in the western US!

Lots of people are happy with the 45 gal aftermarket tank. Transfer flow makes it I believe. Might be worth it if you tow a lot.

It’ll fit any 2nd gen Tundra that did NOT come with a 38gal tank (there’s a riveted crossmember for the 38gal that gets in the way of the TF)

 

[The Machinist]

The intention with the factory leafs is comfort and articulation. With an open rear diff, it is imperative to keep both rear wheels on the ground for traction. They flex a LOT, which is great if you’re off-roading with an empty bed, but they suffer in just about any other context.

Lots of people are happy with the 45 gal aftermarket tank. Transfer flow makes it I believe. Might be worth it if you tow a lot.

It’ll fit any 2nd gen Tundra that did NOT come with a 38gal tank (there’s a riveted crossmember for the 38gal that gets in the way of the TF)

I was referring to the shocks, not the springs. I have stock springs and added sumo spring helper springs that do not change the spring rate when unloaded. The factory rear shocks that came on mine couldn’t even dampen the oscillation from one section of the local interstate.

I’d love a larger tank, but the cost is too high for how often I need it. Maybe someday down the road. If I replace the tank I’d probably go with LRA since they are local to me.

 

[The Machinist]

double post

 

[LX Cruiser]

I was referring to the shocks, not the springs.

Yep, I misread.

I have the TRD Pro shocks on my Tundra, and they help quite a bit, although they don't totally eliminate that oscillation on seamed concrete sections of the highway. It's a lot better, and when I have a lot of weight in the truck, it's almost gone.

 

[FXJ 96]

I didn't really *do* anything with it, but I did take it out with all 6 windows open on a perfect Texas weather evening last night. Not even washed for the photos, but I am just reminded I love the truck although it is not my daily driver. I was also considering getting a 2020-2022 TRD Pro for the cool label, the driver features, better stereo, and some other factors but I realized that there really isn't $30K of value there (difference between my truck's value and one of the cheapest TRD Pros I could find). All the things I truly love about the truck are present in my 2012 SR5, just missing some fancy lipstick really.

 

[open country]

I feel the same about our 2016 Platinum, fits every need but with 3 kids having a proximity key and push button start is really missed, and frustrating it took Toyota until MY 2020 to have that. That's the only feature we really are missing, but it would take $25k+ out of pocket to get it.