swfla

iTrader: (1)

I just got a trailer hitch for my '02 ES300 from www.reese-hitches.com, $175 shipped. It included easy to follow, bolt on instructions and all hardware. Took 1/2 hour to install, no modifications needed, SIMPLE. The tail light converter, which most non american cars require, was available from my local boaters supply for under $20. That took almost an hour but was still easy to do.
My local hitch installer wanted $400 and would have kept my car 4-8 hours.
Fortunately SW Fla is flat, the ES300 is not a towing powerhouse but will do the job

papachino

cool deal, the only thing that I would like to see my Lex tow is my jetski. My celeb tows it well.

steviej

iTrader: (1)

swfla

what are your going to tow?
Since you are in a very southern state where warm temperatures are more consistent throughout the year, you may want to look into an aftermarket transmission fluid cooler.

steviej

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Excellent suggestion Steviej. I have an 18' boat that is near the recommended weight capacity in the owners manual. I will keep a close eye on the temp gauge the first time I tow it later this spring. A jet ski would be a piece of cake!!
My previous vehicle, a '98 Volvo V70 GLT had less HP but more low end torque. Volvos are set up with heavy duty everything so the temp gauge was fine. I also monitored my xmission fluid and changed it more frequently than recommended as well as engine oil. Volvos are real work horses.
I used to be a fishing guide and towed everytime I had a charter. I've changed careers and will be towing only occasionally. If I had remained in my old career, I would have gotten the RX300.
The right tool for the job makes life easier.......David.

papachino

If I was towing an 18' foot boat, why not just get a truck?

steviej

iTrader: (1)

An 18" foot boat near that minimal of a tow weight........must be a flats boat.
What's the total weight (trailer, outboard and boat fully loaded)?

steviej

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Hey Steviel, it's an older Maverick Master Angler flats boat with a 115 Suzuki 4 stroke. Had it on the truck scales...3050 lbs. It's my understanding that the newer ones are lighter. Of course that's the mfgrs claim. Once loaded, it's probably closer to what I have.
I've had pickups, SUVs and the Volvo wagon....glad to have a more luxury ride that will occasionally tow the boat. Can't bear to part with it .

Tammy

You will need to have your transmission serviced frequently and document it.

steviej

iTrader: (1)

but the maximum tow weight for the ES is only 2000 lbs. Has the trailer got brakes on it. It may be something to look at if it doesn't.

steviej

swfla

iTrader: (1)

You're right Steviej, got it confused with the hitch capacity. You are also right about the stopping capacity being more of an issue than the pulling capacity. I guess I will know more once I actually take the boat for a spin this spring. My hope is to just "get by" for a dozen trips a year being extra careful and gentle when I do it. Thanks so much for your genuine care and concern....David.

papachino

better hope you don't throw your transmission running up the ramps

swfla

iTrader: (1)

hey Papachino, I don't know enough about transmissions. If the ramp/load is too steep wouldn't the tranny just slip? Can you explain what you meant about this?? Thanks.

papachino

I wish I new more about transmissions also, mine just went
Pulling a load up a hill espsecially a boat that gained a little more weight because of the water that it has yet to drain out is going to put a good load on to the transmission. If the transmission just slips it is because you are probably burning the torque converter, similar to burning the clutch in a manual I guess. I know some of the ramp designs in Florida suck and does take a lot to pull a boat out of the water. In the Lexus, you'd probably get some wheel spin. But I don't know , I haven't pulled anything in my Lex yet

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Guess we'll just have to wait and see unless someone else who understands transmissions joins the discussion. How/why did your tranny go?
Your suggestion of a truck is a possibility, a beater for towing and Home Depot runs

papachino

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho....php?t=205567-
This is my post on my tranny problems. If I am lucky It will go into 1st or reverse, but that is for only a short amount of time. It isn't going into gear So if anyone can help please reply under this thread, if not I am screwed to take it to a mechanic that is going to charge over $2,500 for.