Tundra 4.7 vs. 5.7 for a 20' Safari

[Ray Eklund]

I enjoyed our 2006 Tundra 4.7L 4x4 towing a 23 foot Safari. Never had a power problem, even climbing paved roads up to 10,000 feet in Western Colorado. I liked the size of the double cab (today's Crew Max), but... have upgraded to the 2008 Tundra 5.7L double cab with the 6.5 foot bed.

Although I find the 2000-2006 Tundras a nice compromise in size between the Tacoma and the 2007+ Tundra, I jumped ship early on my 2006. This Spring we will be towing with a 2008 (really a 2007 with a higher price) for the 5.7L engine, larger all four disc brakes, 6 speed automatic, and higher tow capacity. The 2007+ Tundras seem huge inside the cab! Maybe a bit of a problem on the Rockdocking off the paved road, but I am anxious to test this one out. I expect gas mileage to be better than the 4.7L while towing. Time will tell. I hope to update my experience as we test the limits.

As for the mirror attachments to the 2000-2006 Tundra. Do not waste your money. While pulling my Safari, just a small "twitch" of the steering wheel gives me plenty of lane coverage to the left or a "twitch of the steering wheel" to the right were fine. I was sold on the idea I needed these strapped on mirrors, which were difficult to attach to the curved mirrors, anyways. Took the mirrors back while still in the parking lot for a refund... and never had a problem looking back.

[rbkhale]

Have had both pulling a 25 ft ccd. Both pulled ok, but the 2007 5.7 is outstanding. The brakes are great and I often forget I,m pulling a trailer. If you have the extra money power is king.

Rick