Tug (which do we choose)

10th May

Well after much looking around at various vehicles we have decided on our new tug. I had an early diesel Patrol tray top I was going to do up but costs got pretty high, reliability raised its head and we though better of it. After doing a lot of home work we made the decision to go to a new vehicle. All of us have different needs and expectances, so one man's choice does not necessarily mean that it is right for everybody. I know of a couple of forums that will shout me down for not buying a Patrol or Toyota purely on their ideas.
For us, we plan on being on the road for several years and staying in one place for some months at a time if convenient. Therefore we needed a veh that was easy to drive as a daily transport and a bit better on fuel at this time. Sure, it will use more when we tow but that was our choice.
After comparing many tugs, and comparing towing capacities (doesn’t that vary) prices and ease of service etc we decided on a new Ford Ranger, Supercab Pickup, 5sp manual, with a 3lt common rail turbo & intercooled diesel motor. Braked towing capacity of 3000kgs. 115 kws of power and 380 Nm torque.( far exceeding my old 4.2lt Patrol) I can already hear the pundits now saying he will be sorry, but hey! That’s life ! I know work mates that truly believe a Ford will fail as you drive it from the yard (they drive a commodore) and visa versa. I must admit it is the first Ford we have owned. We are having an ARB canopy fitted before we pick it up and of course tinting all round and cruise control. (not to be used whilst towing)