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Just bought a 2009 Malibu with a V6 and was wanting to tow my jet ski with it. It is a 2012 Seadoo GTR 215 and weighs 765lbs + 195lbs trailer = 960lbs without gas and 3 occupants (Driver passenger and 1 extra person). I also want to get a tuner. Would I be able to do this. Anyone recommend a good handheld tuner.
Last edited by Robert A. DeAngelis Jr.; Dec 4, 2012 at 2:53 PM.
This thread is super awesome for its stamina! 4 years since the original post. I posted in this thread 2 years ago. And I probably haven't posted on the chevroletforum since! I got an email saying the thread has been updated and I didn't even remember being a member here. So I try logging in and there I am on page one - that was 2 years past the OP then! Neat!
I have been told by a couple knowledgeable car guys I work with, I will be fine, no problem. I submitted a question on etrailer.com and thier "expert" says he would not recommend it. From what I have been able to put together, I'm over my rated 917lbs, however this is a vertical payload, of which only 30lbs of tongue weight matters. It's the horizontal 1200lbs that's a concern. I do have manual paddle shifters on a 6 speed auto trans, so I can somewhat control the transmission.
I have a 2010 Malibu LT2 with a 2.4L in it and I frequently haul 1500-2000lbs (Weekly) I began towing with it when I had 90,000 miles on it and its now at 173,000 no transmission or engine issues. The only issues Ive had is you will go through factory rear shocks fairly quickly, and fully loaded with 200lbs tounge weight your *** end squats pretty good to the point you only have about 3" of clearance from your hitch to the ground. Other than that as long as your carful you shouldn't have much problem.
I have a 2010 Malibu LT2 with a 2.4L in it and I frequently haul 1500-2000lbs (Weekly) I began towing with it when I had 90,000 miles on it and its now at 173,000 no transmission or engine issues. The only issues Ive had is you will go through factory rear shocks fairly quickly, and fully loaded with 200lbs tounge weight your *** end squats pretty good to the point you only have about 3" of clearance from your hitch to the ground. Other than that as long as your carful you shouldn't have much problem.
it doesn't look like you are squating very much. How is it with laboring when towing on hills. I have a 2012 LS 2.4 and looking in getting a small tent trailer.
anyone who understands unibody construction won't pull more than the factory recommendation. Can it be done yes. should it be done absolutely not. Some retard pulling 2/3 of the vehicle weight with no trailer brakes, changing the ride height & wrecking the front tires...not to mention wheel bearing load and angle. No regard for other drivers safety.
