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Hi, I would like some advice on what vehicle would be suitable to safely tow a double horse float, occasionally with 2 horses, more often with loads of hay (up to 40 bales) and sometimes furniture. There may also be a requirement for 4WD in some situations. Of course, I would also like it to be as economical to run as possible as it would be my only vehicle and used far more without the float, than with it. Would prefer year 2000 or newer and the price to be less than $10,000 if that is realistically feasible. Any advice greatly appreciated. Thanks
Hi there,
A few ideal options would be a Mitsubishi Pajero, Totota Landcruiser, or Nissan Safari/ Patrol.
However for one newer than 2000 and around 10k is likely to have 300-400km on the clock. They will do the job, but well past the our recommended reliable motoring km's.
Thanks Cade, I take it a Toyota Landcruiser Prado be OK? Would rather have something a little smaller in size if possible and they appear to be a bit shorter than the standard landcruiser.What is your recommended reliable motoring kms?
The Prado has a max braked tow recommendation of 2500kg, so should tow what you need.
I recommend the lowest km's you can get, if it will be your main transport vehicle you may want to look under 150k. But the vehicle range you are looking at are in high demand and attract top dollar for old high mileage vehicles.
Thanks again Cade, have been checking out the Mitsi Pajero as well. Where is the best place to find out the max braked tow recommendation for vehicles?
Information is a little hard to find for older vehicles, but here is a link to what we have put together over the years. http://www.aa.co.nz/cars/maintenance/towing/towing-weights/
Thanks again Cade. Another question - According to the towing specs the Land Rover Freelander Td4 (2006) has a towing weight of 2000kg which should do the job. I haven't seen that vehicle mentioned anywhere before - what is your opinion as to its suitability? Thanks
Hi there,
Land Rovers are a bit of a niche market, unfortunately not really considered a very good off-road towing vehicle.
http://www.drive.com.au/used-car-reviews/used-car-review-land-rover-freelander-200407-20110713-1hejn.html