Tom, I have a M-17 and just drove from Phoenix to Lake Havasu (Seans Lake). The ride over - piece of cake, normal conditions no climb -no wind. ( the 'disputed' 30+knots) The ride back we had BIG breeze and the tow vehicle, normally able to tow at the posted speed limit +10 (85mph) easy ( do NOT do this), was blown back on its heels to about 57 mph MAX on the flat. (speedo and GPS). Very windy that day 2/3 of the drive. I don't haul alot of stuff with me - because I usually brought it home after having never using it. We did have a guitar (Frenchies) this last trip - but usually lighter loads - I just don't use all the stuff I used to take. My racing crew used to empty the boat before the start of every race series - I mean empty to the bilge- all out surveyed for NEED and replaced all to be safe and legal - good idea. He is a good sailor. I am currently towing with a 2003 Toyota Tacoma double cab with auto and 3.4 L V6 - have towed same or larger trailers with 3.4 L V6 and manual tranny ( if I was to be towing more and driving in town less - I would DEFINITELY go with the manual tranny again) More than adequate - for the job - If I wasn't in a hurry or did not have big mountains ahead of me I would drive a 4 cylinder Toyota Taco with manual towing a M-15. - but then again I grew up driving VW buses and trucks with 36 and 40 hp motors. That explains alot right there! I used to drive a bus with a 36 hp motor to San DIego with my black M-10 on the roof luugage rack - you just slooooooooooooooow down going up the hills. (Also towed C-15 with same bus and 52hp motor to CA and back many times) V6 and auto or manual trans in a small truck or SUV (didn't they call those station wagons?) should be fine for all roads - IMHO - I have towed boats on trailers over a million miles over the interstate highways as a boat dealer in a previous life - then I woke up! Tow package recommended - Do not exceed the vehicle manufacturers recommendations, be careful you could poke your eye out with that thing! Motor Safe - start early - pull over and rest often. then Go Sailing Gary O. M-17 #316a
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