Freelander 2 Towing Question

[WeeGraeme]

Hi, all.

I hope I don't become a one post wonder as happens to people on so many forums. I've joined up to find out about the Freelander 2, because it's on my short list.

I was wondering if anyone here had had much experience towing a boat with the FL2. I'm more interested in launching and recovering. I'd be interested in hearing the size of boat that has been launched / recovered and how much you've had to ride the clutch to do so.

I'm trying to work out whether to buy a new FL2, or an older Defender, just to tow the boat. If I buy a FL2, it will be my daily drive too.

I used to have a 1998 Discovery 300tdi, but I sold that in 2005. I still have a soft spot for Land Rovers though.

I haven't actually bought a boat yet either. I plan to, but I know that my current vehicle isn't overly suited.

[camel_landy]

As long as the boat & trailer are within the legal limits, you should be fine with a FL2. The FL2 is also far more comfortable as a daily driver.

The only thing I'd say is get an Auto, not a manual... Dragging the boat out of the water will be heavy on the clutch as you don't have a low-range on the freebee. (The auto helps compensate for all of this)

M

[WeeGraeme]

As long as the boat & trailer are within the legal limits, you should be fine with a FL2. The FL2 is also far more comfortable as a daily driver.

The only thing I'd say is get an Auto, not a manual... Dragging the boat out of the water will be heavy on the clutch as you don't have a low-range on the freebee. (The auto helps compensate for all of this)

M

Thanks for that. I currently drive a Subaru Outback Diesel. In theory, it will tow a boat too, but in practice I know it would struggle, so I just wanted to check with people who'd actually know.

I'm not so keen on the idea of an auto though. I quite like driving a manual gearbox. I might have to think about it some more and see if it grows on me.

[mikehzz]

I traded a 6 cylinder Outback for my Freelander 2 and I was worried that I would miss the power. I couldn't have been more wrong. The grunt that the FL2 diesel has is quite awesome. It's figures are higher than the Outback diesel. I've towed a box trailer overloaded with bricks and the car didn't even feel like it was straining. The 6 speed auto is a great gearbox that you can drive in manual mode if you want. The auto is definitely better off road and makes it easier to compensate for no low range. I grew up driving manuals when a 4 on the floor was the latest and auto's were 2 or 3 speeds that made you cringe. I never thought I would ever recommend an auto but the new stuff is just that good.

[camel_landy]

Seriously, go auto...

M

[reklaw47]

Go auto for a start. I tow a caravan that goes over the weigh bridge right on 2 tonne. The FL2 handles it better than the V8 Disco that preceded it. I haven't had to recover the van on a boat ramp but did pull it out of a very steep grassy camp site with no issues at all. The low down torque is outstanding and the 6 speed auto works a treat at staying in the torque curve. Fuel consumption while towing averages around 13.8 l/100. You won't be disappointed with the Freelander.
Rob

[Tusker]

Yep tow an unbraked 16' ski boat with an i6, no problems.
Just watch where the trailer crank handle etc sits, I can't open the rear door by more than 6" or so. Day trips are ok, but longer holidays means taking the boat off to get to luggage.

I thought it might need a trans cooler, but I've never had a warning light come on.

The Defender also pulls it quite easily. But the problem is....
The boat disappears from view on the ramp. Removing the spare wheel doesn't help. It's a real PITA. And embarrassing as it jacknifes unknown to you but in full view of everyone else.

Regards
Max P

[Tusker]

Yep tow an unbraked 16' ski boat with an i6, no problems.
Just watch where the trailer crank handle etc sits, I can't open the rear door by more than 6" or so. Day trips are ok, but longer holidays means taking the boat off to get to luggage.

I thought it might need a trans cooler, but I've never had a warning light come on.

The Defender also pulls it quite easily. But the problem is....
The boat disappears from view on the ramp. Removing the spare wheel doesn't help. It's a real PITA. And embarrassing as it jacknifes unknown to you but in full view of everyone else.

Regards
Max P

[DEF130]

Wife dumped our 98 disco for the 2011 FL2 SE diesel. We dont have a boat but it tows the Jetski no problems. I used to keep looking back to confirm it was still hitched because there was very little noticable difference to power.
The only let down to date is when updating the crummy nuvi GPS half the damn dash needs to be removed. Have been arguing with LRO in Sydney about this oversight. They did agree and have offered to remove at next service for me then reinstall at a later date (no cost) once updated. Better than a jab in the eye with a burnt stick I suppose )))

Have experienced the same problem as the previouse post with my 130, backing the jetski down the ramp is always a laugh for my mates. Mutiple left and right turns of the wheel to seek some visibility in the side mirrors helps. I have the same drama with my 6x4 trailer also. Thinking of fixing some guide poles to the mudguards to assist..

Anyway go the FL2, build quality, comfort and performance are excellent, we are definetly impressed!!!

[BigJon]

The Defender also pulls it quite easily. But the problem is....
The boat disappears from view on the ramp. Removing the spare wheel doesn't help. It's a real PITA. And embarrassing as it jacknifes unknown to you but in full view of everyone else.

Regards
Max P

Your Defender doesn't have side mirrors?