The search didn't really answer my questions completely so I need your opinions. I am about to purchase a boat that I will be towing with my '06 Honda Pilot (EX-4WD). I'm looking at something smaller like 16-18ft and fairly light like a skiff or a flats boat. Total weight would not exceed 3000lbs for sure and hopefully not 2500.

I DO NOT currently have the towing package. I can purchase a hitch (U-Haul brand) for $150ish shipped and install it myself. However (and this is my problem), I will not have the ATF or PS coolers. Obviously its better to have these but here's why I'm vexed; I live two miles from the boat ramp and I have a lifetime powertrain warranty on the vehicle.

The lifetime warranty is through Honda and is part of a deal that all Eastern NC Honda dealers have been running for 2 years now. There is a $50 deductable and its good at any ASE shop in the states. I went over all the fine print and it said NOTHING of towing packages/coolers etc. etc. etc.

So anyway, considering my situation, should I pony up for the coolers or not worry about it? Anyone know how much Honda charges for the package (I'm sure its 500-1K+)? Thanks y'all!

 

http://www.piloteers.org/forums/show...&threadid=8120

I'd advise you to spend the 900 and buy whatever honda throws at you as the "tow package" because the lack of mention tow packages does not remove the fact that one could be considered negligent when towing without the "properly equipment". You know how that warranty headache goes.

 

meh, I'm not so much worried about the warranty issues (there are none, really). I just don't want the hassle of having the downtime and frustration of my tranny going.

BUT I don't know that its worth the cost when the boat is being towed 2 miles each way with only one stop light (no stop signs) and a top speed limit of 35mph. Seems like a lot of parts/money for such a short trip

 

I personally would just get the hitch and do it without any extra crap from the dealer, and if a problem arises, I'd kindly let them know it happened on my way to the grocery store that way it removes questions of what happened. And when they question the hitch, I'd ask how often they carry 4 bikes with a full load to go down for a family bike ride in the family car.

Without condoning that you do so, I personally wouldn't hesitate to do so. It's a boat, which makes towing easier (aerodynamics).

 

That is your answer.

The Pilot's not a Hemi-Powered Dodge Ram 1500. But the Pilot was meant to tow here and there. That's what you are doing.

If you were to tow a camper cross country, then maybe the answer will be different.

 

That's what I was thinking. Light boat+extremely short distance+full warranty, seems like it wouldn't be a problem.

If I move (not planning to) or want to haul the boat to my brother's (a possibility in a year once he gets back from deployment), I'll prolly go with the cooler. But I can't see why it'd be an issue for my current plans.

 

The tranny cooler honda makes for the "tow package" is joke... definatly not worth the money they want. It's just a longer tube with spiral fins. I would look into a nice Setrab or B&M, and install it yourself. The power steering is not needed IMO. I tow my civic on a dolly to the track about 2 hours away with my 06 2wd and have no problems with no cooler, but I plan on getting a used setrab off ebay for cheap. NAPA will have all the trans hose and clamps you need.