1stSeaRay
New Member
Properly Equipped a 1/2 ton with sufficient rated capacity is capable of towing the 260. This means weight distributing hitch, Factory HD tow package that likely includes a larger radiator, transmission & oil coolers, and a higher rear end gear.
The down side to this is if you are towing the max rated weight, you have likely maxed your GVWR and technically shouldn't be putting any weight in the truck aside from the driver. This makes it hard to get your crew & gear to the lake.
Over short distances this would likely not be an issue, but since the intention of the OP is to take road trips (~250 miles) In this situation a larger tow vehicle is called for. The vehicle will last longer, and the ride will be more comfortable. As for 4X4, it isn't likely necessary the vast majority of the time, but when you need it, you'll be glad you have it. In addition, in most areas the 4X4 is a more desirable package when it comes to resale (ask me how I know).
To qualify my answers, I was in a similar situation when I bought my 260 in June. My Expedition is capable of moving the boat the 5 miles from the storage to the launch, but its not a comfortable ride as the boat is nearly 2X the weight of the truck.
I've been actively searching for a new tow vehicle since I bought the 260, as we would like be able to tow it to Lake Powell, and possibly CA for a Catalina trip. Considering the mountain driving and distance involved, I wouldn't think of making either trip with the Expedition.
The good news is (for me) I found an 05 Excursion on Saturday that is equipped the way I wanted it (6.0L powerstroke 4X4 eddie bauer) with low miles (40K). Catalina Island, here we come!
The down side to this is if you are towing the max rated weight, you have likely maxed your GVWR and technically shouldn't be putting any weight in the truck aside from the driver. This makes it hard to get your crew & gear to the lake.
Over short distances this would likely not be an issue, but since the intention of the OP is to take road trips (~250 miles) In this situation a larger tow vehicle is called for. The vehicle will last longer, and the ride will be more comfortable. As for 4X4, it isn't likely necessary the vast majority of the time, but when you need it, you'll be glad you have it. In addition, in most areas the 4X4 is a more desirable package when it comes to resale (ask me how I know).
To qualify my answers, I was in a similar situation when I bought my 260 in June. My Expedition is capable of moving the boat the 5 miles from the storage to the launch, but its not a comfortable ride as the boat is nearly 2X the weight of the truck.
I've been actively searching for a new tow vehicle since I bought the 260, as we would like be able to tow it to Lake Powell, and possibly CA for a Catalina trip. Considering the mountain driving and distance involved, I wouldn't think of making either trip with the Expedition.
The good news is (for me) I found an 05 Excursion on Saturday that is equipped the way I wanted it (6.0L powerstroke 4X4 eddie bauer) with low miles (40K). Catalina Island, here we come!