On the sway issue, I have a Ford F250 Super Duty and had sway problems until I changed the hitch height until the trailer frame was level. On dual axel trailers it is important to keep the load even on each axle.

Take it to a scale!
 

3100 seems like it might be a little low for the weight of your whole rig. Can you run this across a public scale somewhere like at a grain elevator? Most people seem to underestimate their total weight and the scale is the only way to know for sure with your normal equipment aboard and the fuel load you would haul with. I used a heavy half ton GMC to haul my 18' Mariah and it did a nice job pulling and controlling it. (Before I sold the boat) I'm now towing a 16' aluminum runabout and that outfit weighs 1500. I hardly know it is there.

My tow vehicle is a Grand Cherokee, and I've never had any bounce/sway issues. Mine does have the Up Country package (1" lift on stiffer springs) but I still run my 2" drop hitch inverted to keep the trailer level . Most of the time I need to look in my mirrors to remind myself the boat is back there. :wink_thumbup:

Mind you my trailer is a single axle unit. Don't know if that makes any difference.

No bounce issues? With the Up Country package?? I would think that's even worse with the softer, off-road type of suspension. Hey, if it works - great! I love the GC!

I may be more sensitive to it after using full size vans, pick-ups, and the minivan on previous occasions. It's not terrible, just bounces more than the others. Much the same way a Jeep Wrangler bounces around - the short wheelbase causes it, and added weight behind the rear axle magnifies it.

I don't usually see much sway either. Again, it's more than other vehicles which is why I mentioned it. Slight corrections on the interstate at 70 mph towing something that seems twice as long as the Jeep makes it "wag" a little.

My trailer is a Prestige tandem axle from the factory (custom built), it's level when hooked up to the Jeep, and tows great. Maybe having the tandem, slightly longer/heavier boat makes a bit of difference.

I'm glad you're happy with your set-up too. The Grand Cherokee is a strong, dependable tow vehicle. I just wanted to point out that I think the tow rating could be even higher if it didn't have the off-road mindset of a short wheelbase. It's really a great "all around use" type of vehicle that I plan to keep a long time!

U/C package also includes high pressure monotube shocks. That could well be the difference.

X2 on lovin' the GC. For me it's a great all around vehicle. In the snow, the QuadraDrive system is simply awesome. :wink_thumbup:

Great information.

Clearly, a true 4x4 vehicle with a truck frame as its basis seems to be the way to go. I was really considering the Pilot until the AWD issue was mentioned in a previous post -- I'd hate to struggle on a ramp--or worse--tear up the tranny on an $18,000+ vehicle.

It's funny, though, as the more I discover about this, the higher the tow capacity recommendations become! Before long, I'll be considering an F-350 Diesel Dually. :rolling_laugh:

Re: Towing Capacity Question
 

I am looking at buying a 1992 Mariah Diablo, I think its about 18 feet long, comes with the 3.0l Mer Alpha 1 drive.

I am going to be towing this with a GMC Canyon 2WD, rated for 5500lbs. The truck has the off road suspension package with a 4000lb hitch. 500lb tung capicity.

Do you guys think that I should be ok with this set up? I am still a little nervous at the boat ramp being it is only the 2WD, the truck has a button to turn on and off the limited slip traction control as well. Not sure what the better option would be.

Anyone know what the weight of the 18 foot Mariah and a single axel trailer would be aprox?

Thanks guys, I am new to this site...and I hopefully will be a Mariah owner tomorrow.

Re: Towing Capacity Question
 

Juno. You should be fine. boat is about 2200 lbs and trailer 1000 lbs. add people, fuel, etc and you will be 4000 or so.

on the boat ramp, it depends on conditions.

Re: Towing Capacity Question
 

Thanks, thats what i was thinking as well. Do you know where on this site I could get the specs on this boat?

Re: Towing Capacity Question
 

your welcome



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