Towing with a 4 cylinder
 

I have looked all over the next and have seen different weights on the 15' towlites. I have a 2005 RAV 4 and the book said highest towing capacity is 1500 lbs. I have owned two Hi-Lo's and loved them but drove a 6 cylinder SUV. Does anyone know if I could tow a 15' with the RAV; maybe someone that has towed with a 4 cylinder?

Thank you

I wouldn't even think of towing a HiLo with that vehicle.

- Jack

Towing with RAV4
 

Thank you so much for your input! I have been worried about it and was swaying on the side of not taking the chance. I love to go camping and love Hi-Lo's but with a RAV4 guess that will have to go on the back burner for now.

Again thank you so much Jack!

Shirley

Texassiren,

I found these capacities on Toyota's RAV4's:


Automatic 2.2L AWD diesel models offer a towing capacity of 500kg (braked and unbraked).
Manual 2.2L AWD diesel models offer a towing capacity of 550kg (braked or unbraked).
2.5L AWD petrol models offer a towing capacity of 750kg (unbraked) and 1500kg (braked).
2.0L 2WD petrol models offer a towing capacity of 750kg (unbraked and 800kg (braked).

I also found this capacity for a 15' HiLo:

Important dimensions:
Exterior length 15' Traveling height 5'9"
Exterior width 7'10", Interior height 6'3 1/2"
We show the floorplan below, Sleeping capacity 2-4
UVW 2100 lbs, Hitch weight 260 lbs
Tanks - fresh / black / grey - 15 / 18 / 32 gals
MSRP around $14,500 but see dealer for quote

I would say from your description your RAV4 has a towing capacity of around 1200 pounds. The UVW [unloaded vehicle weight] of A 15' HiLo weighs 2100 pounds. To be able to tow a 15' HiLo you would have to upgrade your RAV4 to a 2.5 liter gasoline engine with a tow rating of around 3300 pounds [if the trailer has brakes].

The safety factor has to enter into the equation and I agree with Jack in your case. The RAV4 weighs about 3200 pounds and after loading the smallest of the HiLo's, the weight of the tow vehicle, while greater, is disproportionate to the towed vehicle. I would feel very uncomfortable towing a loaded 15' HiLo even after upgrading to a larger RAV4 with a higher towing capacity. When towing, never throw caution to the winds.

jcurtis95

Towing with RAV4
 

Thank you jcurtis95, I appreciate your research, I will take both of your advise, won't do it.

Shirley