I currently own a 200 Select. I have been towing with my 1998 Explorer (Modified to Increase capacity). No problem on the local run to the lake. Recently took an 500 mile road trip (each way). NOT FUN. Power was fine, up and down hill, BUT the vehicle simply wasn't heavy enough nor big enough wheelbase. We got blown around pretty good by the semi's and the wind. Needless to say I couldn't relax during the drive for even a second. We made it without incident and had a GREAT time. I pledged to my wife that I would NEVER take another long trip in that vehicle. Looking at vehicles to tow this boat I've come up with 3. Tahoe/Yukon, Expedition/Navigator, Nissan Armada. The towing capacity is Armada>Expedition>Tahoe (not the EL version). In my opinion the Tahoe rides the best, (The '05 expedition handles MUCH better than the new 07, weird). The standard Tahoe configuration(3.73 rear axle) is rated to tow 7200#. With the optional 4.10 rear axle and the trans cooler capacity increases to 8200#. This package increases the cost of the vehicle slightly, decreases the gas milage significantly, and is VERY hard to find.
Even though the Ford (8750#) and the Armada (9000#) are rated to tow more they feel less stable, and get lower gas mileage. I suspect that the Tahoe will ride and handle significantly better.
SOOO the question is not as much about now but later. My next boat will probably be a 240 Sundeck (2 foot-itis). I can't find an accurate tow weight but I suspect it is about 6500 (???????????).
Due to availability the Tahoe with the 3.73 is way easier to get, but tow capacity is 7200, pretty close. So I do not want to put myself in the same situation I am in new, new boat then new vehicle. I do not feel like buying a 3/4 ton at this point, so I guess the question is can I tow the SD240 with the Tahoe or do I 1) Need to get the 4.10 rear axle or 2) Just accept that no mater what I'll need a 3/4 ton for the 240 and know that if I upgrade boats a new truck will also be in the works.
SORRY to be long winded, but I am SO confused and am having trouble getting straight answers. Thanks to ALL for your help and advice.
Jeff
Even though the Ford (8750#) and the Armada (9000#) are rated to tow more they feel less stable, and get lower gas mileage. I suspect that the Tahoe will ride and handle significantly better.
SOOO the question is not as much about now but later. My next boat will probably be a 240 Sundeck (2 foot-itis). I can't find an accurate tow weight but I suspect it is about 6500 (???????????).
Due to availability the Tahoe with the 3.73 is way easier to get, but tow capacity is 7200, pretty close. So I do not want to put myself in the same situation I am in new, new boat then new vehicle. I do not feel like buying a 3/4 ton at this point, so I guess the question is can I tow the SD240 with the Tahoe or do I 1) Need to get the 4.10 rear axle or 2) Just accept that no mater what I'll need a 3/4 ton for the 240 and know that if I upgrade boats a new truck will also be in the works.
SORRY to be long winded, but I am SO confused and am having trouble getting straight answers. Thanks to ALL for your help and advice.
Jeff