Towing
I would be concerned about your vehicle towing a MAC 26 satisfactory for 2 reasons. First, being able to pull the boat out of the water (with the balast full) and second for safety on the freeway. I use a 4 WD Ford Ranger (mid size)with a 3.0 engine with about 150 HP. The 4 WD models are heavier and more robust. If it was not a 4 WD, I defiitely would go to a full size pickup as a previous person mentioned. Pulling the boat out of the water and up some of the ramps can be a real chore and I always kick in the 4 WD and also use the LOW range side, especially with the balast full. I still have some safety concerns in the event of something major happening on the highway. The mid range 4 WD size vehicle is just barely heavy enough. I do tow rather fast, 60 to 70 MPH range, and consequently have installed new larger and higher load rated tires on the trailer. I put on Carlisle 225/75/15 with a loaded rating of 2500 pounds per tire at a cost of about $70 each. I would hate to have a blow out or drop a wheel off on the shoulder. Additionally, when I am running out on the interstate and get passed by a big 18 wheeler, the wind from the 18 wheeler will frequently first push me away from the 18 wheeler, then as they pass, it sucks me back toward the 18 wheeler. Again, that is at the 60/70 MPH and it is not real bad but still concerning. I have not towed in big hills or in bad weather. On the road, the boat presents surprising minimal wind resistence. The bow just splits the wind. Be CERTAIN to have a HEAVY DUTY trailer hitch. I have been using the factory bumper hitch and just this week discovered the bumper was breaking. I had to leave the boat on the road while I went and had a frame mounted hitch installed. I was very lucky to have caught it in time. Trailering the boat around and sailing in different areas is a real KICK!!! NOTHING like it!! Good Luck!
