high gearing ??

[pegasus]

Would appreciate any advice- recently got a x trail 2002 -5 speed- (750kg unbraked- 2000 kg braked). Use to have a old pathfinder 1988 model 2.4petrol. I use to engage 4wd low range to get up my steep drive way. Traction was never the problem.I sort thought that with the xtra power the xtrail had over the old pathfinder I d have no problems pulling the 4.55 frontrunner- comes in around the 650/700 kg (guess). I dont do any serious off road stuff.

The first run towing the poly was good- it pulled very well however the drive way proved the stumbling block- driveway is probably about 30 degrees-. I found that I could not get it up the drive with out stalling unless I used the clutch- Took a few attempts. Strong smell of clutch when the exercise was over. Have improved a little but still feel I burning the clutch. I cant get run off and have to be fairly spot on in the reversing otherwise I am off into the garden or hitting the house. I guess this is probably because of a high gearing.

Have had a suggestion- fit a tow ball set up to the front and drive it up- would this make a difference?

Also suggested that the reverse gearing could be lowered -is that possible?

Am reluctant to do a boat change or vehicle change-happy with the boat- and overall happy the xtrail except the above- it pull the boat well and no problems on the ramp.

advice appreciated

regards,
lew

[Big_Kev]

Check on the vehicle specs.
You might find that the first gear is lower ratio then Reverse.
This is common in many manufacturers.
The front ball idea may have merit.