Tow Vehicle Question

[dan1166]

Currently I own a 1999 Ski Nautique 196, but I am considering a 200. This boat is somewhat larger, and was wondering if it would tow better with a tandem vs. a single axle trailer?

My tow vehicle is a 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 5.7 liter motor. Plenty of power, but my fear is that the larger 200 will tend to throw the jeep around, as compared to a pickup or a full size SUV such as a Tahoe. Would a tandem trailer with good brakes, help in this situation. Opinions would be greatly appreciated

[Skidave]

I used to tow an older ski Nautique with my 4 door S-10 blazer. We upgraded to a 206 and was worried. The S-10 did fine pulling and stopping. The trailer has brakes. We have upgraded to a suburban now.

I think you will be fine with upgrading.

[markj]

Yes. Tandems are way more stable and don't sway like singles.

[Beach-TJ]

I second what markj said

Sent from my Nexus 7 using PLANETNAUTIQUE mobile app

[peteSki]

I've got a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the same engine towing my 2005 Sport Nautique 216. This is a bigger boat to the 200 and I can tell you the Jeep does a fine job. I have a tandem axle trailer with surge brakes which work well and I've never had an issue. I think all up my boat/trailer is around 4500-5000lbs, and the Jeeps towing capacity is 7500lbs so it's a good fit. Unless the 2009 Jeeps are are considerably smaller than the 2011's, I think you'll be good to go.

[JoeA]

More wheels on a trailer equals more braking capacity. I think your Jeep is fine assuming your not near max tow capacity.

[kend]

not to hijack but this got me thinking; I've been using a single axle with no brakes for years (suburban now expedition). Is this really an issue?

[slidin_out]

Drug my first 03 SANTE around on a single axle trailer with a V6 Ford Explorer. Current 03 SANTE is on a tandem axle and I was pulling it with a F-150 but now an older Landcruiser. It doesn't push the Landcruiser like I expected it to being on a tandem trailer. Tandem will always pull better IMO but a single axle with your ride you should be fine as well. But if you get to choose get the tandem.