Hey guys, new guy here, lookin into HOW WELL the QX4s do towing, I have a 18' Starcraft Boat(around 3400lbs) and just wonderin how well these would hold up? I am looking for a 99/00 with around 100kms or 70k mi and plan to tow for a few years with it. Is there any WEAR areas I should look at when I start lookin at vehicles? I drove one of these when they first came out (00 or so) and still have a great flav in my mouth from it!......

I tow a 23ft and a 34ft boat all the time, both weighing way more than that, and have had no problems. I have a 2000 Pathfinder LE 4x4. I've also towed (on flat roads dealing with no boat ramps) my 42' Cigarette and a 40' Outerlimits. I'm not towing those anymore with the pathfinder, I bought something bigger for that. You shouldn't have any problems.

I've never towed anything in my life.With that said, I can offer up that the towing capacity is rated at 5000 lbs. I think that's fairly respectable. I wanted to wait until someone with experience posted before me, so there's some relevant content right off the bat.

Any idea how much those boats weigh in at?

ok, on to question#2!!! which is better overall for towing/everyday driving the 97-00 3.3L or the 3.5 in the newer models? I know that the 3.5 needs premium(Im running a GTP thats thirsty for prem, and would like to get away from this with reg octane), howeve if the 3.5 gets better gas muilage and is smoother than Im all for it. LOL I also am for PROVEN engines that lasty a long time and are very reliable(I hear the 3.3L is a workhorse that will last for a long time).

YEP the older 3.3L are much better on fuel..prolly 3-5 mpg better hiway.The 240 hp 3.5 L sacrifices fule for its added power.

And as far as the workhorse thing...

my experience has been that my 3.3 never dies. Ever. But I read a lot of Nissan boards and it seems that the 3.5 guys always have ignition problems....

nice, thats what I like to hear, I have yet to test drive one, but Im looking at a 99/00 Q with below 100,000kms on it. I figure it'll go to 300k without much worry. Is it essential to get the tow package? I know ALL Qs will tow 5000, but I like things like tranny coolers and factory style hitches(or like a hidden hitch sort of deal). Even with my parents Old Silhouette(I guess the former tower of the boat), it has a full towing pkg which saved getting an aftermarket cooler and beefed up a couple of minor things. I have only seen 2 vehicles with this tow pkg(on the Q/out of maybe 50-60 up for sale) which means I guess its a rare option, nut does it make much difference? thanks for the help

The most important thing to look for are good consistent service records. Also, you might want to consider purchasing one that has a few more than a 100k as you will have to do a r&r on the timing belt and water pump at 100k. that would run u about 5 or 6 hundred dollars. You could find a import mechanic to do it for about 3 or 4 if you supply the parts.