I am PCSing (moving) and plan on loading up the 4runner (98, 3.4 v6) with about 7-800 extra pounds (not including my 200 pounds or gas) in the vehcile & on the roof and then will be towing a single axle 4x8 trailer at about 1000 pounds total (trailer + gear).

I have a transmission cooler and have about a 1400 mile trip, part is thru the blueridge mountains.

So, am I overloaded - any tips or concerns?

thx,

m

 

How much weight do you plan on putting on the roof, and how will it be distributed?

 

That is nothing. I wouldn't over load the roof at all as stated above; but as far as teh insisde and a 1klb trailer. The yota can handle that easily.

Ive done much more in my Taco and Runner and they both performed flawlessly.

 

How does PCSing = moving?

 

i dunno how much the roof can carry but it looks like you will be towing around 1800-2000 lbs total. Thats not to bad, I towed that much from SC to MD quite a few times.

You can pull 5000 lbs or so. You might want to look into a bigger trailer if you are afraid of over loading the roof. I think a 4x8 covered trailor weighs 900lbs or so unloaded, thats how much the U-Haul trailers weigh anyway.

But your truck move an additional 2000 lbs isnt a problem...

 

Don't put anything on the roof and get a bigger trailer. A 3.4 can tow 5000 lbs adequately, 2000 easily. Roof weight just limits maneuverability when you can just get a bigger trailer.

 

PCS= Permanent Change of Station. You pretty much transfer from your current duty station somewhere else. Right now, I'm in the middle of one. Currently here in Anniston, Al visiting the in-laws on our way to San Diego. Then from San Diego to Japan in October.
Matt, you shouldn't have a problem loading up your rig. My cargo area is pretty much packed with about 5 suitcases plus me, the wife and 5 year old. I'm not towing anything or have any baggage on the roof though. Good luck on your move and be safe driving. By the way, this is my 6th PCS move.

George

 

thanks. not up on the lingo. haha. be safe.

 

No problem.
Matt, where are you transferring to?


George

 

Your okay with the weight in your move, the roof is rated @ 150lbs (but I wouldn't use it it make the trk top heavy....just use the inside and and your trailer to move your stuff....and your trk can tow up to 5000lbs so your well within your limits......drive safely and take care.....

 

I second the idea of not loading up the roof and getting a bigger trailer instead.

During my move (1k miles) I had my boxspring, matress, and bed frame all tied to the roof of my 4Runner..Thats a good 28" above the Yakima Racks. The inside was loaded from floor to ceiling, including the passenger seat.

Let me tell you..that matress *really* slowed me down, there were many hils that I couldn't go 50mph over, and I averaged less than 10mpg the entire trip. Would have been MUCH easier with a trailer.

 

After packing out and taking some leave, I will be heading to Charlottesville, VA for a masters & then off to the Pentagon (ugggggggghhhhhhhhh). I am only a MAJ so can you say glorified coffee boy!

Thx for all the responses. I probably will only put about 4 punds on the roof - basically 2 duffle bags.

mr

 

That's sounds good. Being a "glorified coffee boy" is not a bad thing . Not much difference with the LT department heads I had to deal with. How long have you been in the service? I've got 14 years in the navy myself and plan to make it a career to 20. I'm just a "Chief or E-7" to you army guys .

George

 

I am right at 13 years. Started as enlisted in the Armor corps, got a commission, & served for a while longer as a tanker. They had a surplus tankers and offered branch transfers and I took them up on an opportunity to get an educational delay where I delayed the rest of my commitment, went to law school and then came back in as a JAG for the rest of my term. When my term ended I had almost 8 in so I have stuck around and plan on sticking around. It has been very good to us thus far - good tours to include FT Meade Maryland, Germany for 4.5 years, Bosnia, Kosovo, FT Wainwrigh, AK, and now Arkansas & next DC. So, like you I plan to do 20 plus. So far (don't ask me how) I have missed the middle east fun tour but it still remains a strong possibility, especially with recruiting going down.