Towing w/ 97 2WD Questions?

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Lizey93

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So I am going to be towing a 2003 Audi A6 about 450 miles in the next month with my 97 regular cab long bed. Here are my specs...

305
4L60E
3.42 Rear
235/75/R15 Tires
No Towing Package
No Trans Cooler
Trailer Brake (Aftermarket)
206k Miles

I know I have to tow in 3rd gear and at around 55mph, but just wanted to see if there were any recommended upgrades in the meantime that you all would recommend? Currently planning...

-New Radiator/Hoses/Thermostat/Coolant
-Trans Fluid Pan Drop/New Filter
-Trans Temp Gauge

Any input is GREATLY appreciated! Thanks!
 

94burbk1500

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How heavy is the car and how heavy is the trailer? I'm sure you can do it, but it might not be fun. I'd make sure your brakes are in good working order, a lot of people neglect their drums. I would definitely keep an eye on the trans temp since you don't have a cooler.
 

Lizey93

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How heavy is the car and how heavy is the trailer? I'm sure you can do it, but it might not be fun. I'd make sure your brakes are in good working order, a lot of people neglect their drums. I would definitely keep an eye on the trans temp since you don't have a cooler.

Brakes are new on all 4 corners including lines in the last year. Car would be on a tow dolly and weighs about 4k pounds.
 

94burbk1500

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Brakes are new on all 4 corners including lines in the last year. Car would be on a tow dolly and weighs about 4k pounds.
At 4k, I personally wouldn't be too worried, just take your time. I hauled a 2500lb trailer 2400 miles with my 4 cylinder s10, it wasn't fun driving through the mountains, but it handled it just fine. That truck has a 5 speed though, so no trans temp issues.
 

94burbk1500

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Why not use one of the other trucks you have? the 2500 could handle that no problem and the 93 doesn't have to worry about trans temps with a 5 speed.
 

Lizey93

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My 93 isnt registered/insured anymore with 284k on the clock and the 2500 (the ideal solution) is at the farm (400 miles from where I live). Trust me, towing with my 97 isnt my ideal option haha.
 

Lanny

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Lock the transmission in 3rd gear and you will probably be fine. Shifting in and out of overdrive can increase temps quick. If you cant put on a gauge or a cooler then I would be scared to do it. 4k isnt a lot but any hill will make the trans work. Especially with only a 3.42 rear. Add a cooler or at least a gauge and run it. Keep the temps below 200. Preferably lower than 175.
Factory these trucks were rated to tow 5500lbs from the factory. Just take it easy
 
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