To me, I am not sure what difference it makes if Toyota says it can tow a 10,000 pound trailer. All the current half ton makers are looking to enhance sales by luring buyers into thinking they are getting "close to a 3/4 ton" without the necessary comprimises of increased size, weight and perhaps lower fuel economy. Most of those that post on this forum would not consider a Tundra for heavy duty daily towing, but if one were taking the travel trailer to the beach for example or similar duties, a Tundra or most half tons would do fine. Although you might occasionally see 1/2 tons overloaded, these are likely the same people trying to pull 40,000 pounds with a 3/4 ton--they are going to be unsafe no matter what they own. I think Toyota makes an excellent truck. They do offer some older technology mixed with the new, but for a first true foray into this type truck they have done pretty well. They also have bolstered competition between the other brands. I would personally like to see an end to comments spread within the forum about specific brands, i.e., "Built Ford tough, until it breaks." that occasionally pop up. I realize that we like our respective brands and are very loyal to them, but to assess a reputable brand in this way is unfortunate. My Ford is--to some's chagrin--at 20,000 without an implosion. No problems to report as of yet; tows and rides great; doesn't squat pulling up to 11,000 pounds on a receiver hitch. No codes, no blows, no trannie problems either. I keep waiting for the axe to fall; but I am thinking it might not; go figure. In any event, one thing said poster and I do agree upon is the unfortunate exodus of production overseas. It does not sound like it is going to change anytime soon with our current tax structure (this is not a political--merely financial--observation).
John M
