need some advice

[gj01]

I am new to the site, and to nissan as well. I have learned quite a bit on here but I have done some searching, and have not found what I am really looking for.
I have a 2001 frontier 4x4 crew cab v-6 and a 5 speed. The problem may be that I also own a 17' travel trailer that weighs around 2500# empty. I should point out that I use a w/d hitch, and trailer brakes. Should 250 mile round trip once or twice a month worry me?

[d1sc0ver]

Your model truck spec's a towing capacity of 3,500#...the auto is rated for 5,000#.

I guess that leaves the concern on what and how much you are loading the trailer with. The simple math tells us that over 1,000# of cargo and you're pushing it. Real world towing...???

[gj01]

I do know it is close. I guess we would have to pack light!
We would be towing into southern Colorado, so some fairly steep grades. The truck does seem to tow the trailer pretty well. I guess I am just curious if I am going to see problems soon.
Any precautions anyone can suggest to make the load a little easier on the truck?

[d1sc0ver]

You're probably stuck w/ stress on engine and drivetrain, however you could compensate for some rear suspension sag w/ helper springs or a bag setup. One thing to also remember is the elevation change between NM and CO...higher elevations mean less oxygen in the air and your engine 'will' suffer slightly less power. I'm in SE AZ and my town sits at 4,600'...I believe this has an effect on engine performance.

[Munky]

I had an 2000 model 4X4 Crew 5spd. I have a 6X10 that weighs about 1100lb empty. I loaded up 2 bikes (RC51's) and gear for a 2 day track day. Id say about another 1500-1700lbs. I had to do the Blue Ridge mountains from Virginia to Alabama. It made it up the mountains but it was pedal to the floor and 11mpg. I had to stop every 180 miles for fuel. Most of the time was spent in 4th gear. I couldnt hold speed in 5th on any rise of the road.

So it will do it...it wont be happy. Dont expect to get there quick and brake real early.

Hope this helps

Ian

[gj01]

Thanks for all the help! This is a great site, lots of good info.

[CRIONCHIP]

Make sure to go with Synthetic; engine, trans, and rear end.

[CRDLIBERTY]

Take it slow you will be fine, its the stopping thats the problem not pulling. My oll wrangler i could pull 2300 boat faster than i could stop scarry.