I will be driving across country in a month and wondered if putting a hitch on my 98 Maxima and towing a small trailer (U-haul type) behind it would be a good idea. Has anybody done this? I know it isn't the most appealing thing to look at...but this is simply a function thing so that I can haul some stuff without getting a full size moving truck.

I've heard that the transmission would get quite a workout and that it really isn't built to "tow" things. Need some help in this respect.

 

I would say keep what your towin as light as possible, and install a hayden tranny cooler (simple). You can find instructions at Maxima.org's shop talk. Also i think your supposed to turn OD off.

 

be careful, our engines arnt that torquey. but like said, if you do it try to keep it light. good luck

 

in ur users manual it'll tell u how much ur max can handle watever ur towin...

 

Read my FAQ on trailer hitch above. It might be too much weight for a U haul. The car will be noticeably slower. And the alraedy undersized brakes will get even more of a workout.

 

Thanks, I don't really have any mods and I think that the extra weight and strain may mean more problems than it is worth. Great info on the FAQ, thanks!

 

I have a Uhaul (Hidden Hitches) class I hitch installed and I've towed a completely full uhaul 4x8' trailer (probably about 1000lbs) with no problem. I have a 5-speed which might make a difference. Power is no problem even climbing the Los Angeles grapevine, it didn't slow me down at all. And I can use just engine braking in 3rd and 4th on the downhill portions to slow down, I barely had to touch the brakes at all.

Having an automatic might make things a little more difficult due to tranny overheating issues. But then again towing 1000lbs is just like having 5 big guys in your car, as long as your hitch can hold. But the hitch is really strong, and I even managed full throttle acceleration with the full trailer with no problems.

Just make sure you don't overload the tounge weight, let it have about 50-100lbs, and you should be good.

I really like the Hidden Hitches hitch a lot, it's almost completely hidden, with only a small hitch arm mount resessed under the bumper, its really well designed. The only problem with the hitch is your rear tow hooks wil have to be removed, meaning flatbed towing your car might become more of a hassle.

 

I have a '95 with 125k and 5 speed. I regularly tow a Popup camper (2000lbs) and utility trailer with no problems. (I refuse
to buy an SUV!) You can't even tell the camper is back there when starting up. Now stopping is another story....you will definately take longer to slow down. But I never warped a rotor yet. Take it easy and you will have no problems. I have a 1.25" receiver hitch that bolted right on. You don't even see the ball as you pull the pin and remove it when not in use.
I agree with "drewm" -watch the tongue weight- 100 lbs, more than that and you'll really effect the handling of the car.