I can't seem to find any reference to it in the owner's manual. When I tow a trailer (in this case, a 23 ft camper) should I tow in "3rd" gear...like I used to in my GMC Suburban?

 

i find that putting it into sport mode works best for towing, but i'm not pulling anything as big as that (flat trailer with a couple of motorcycles on it).

 

I pulled my 3600 lb boat in drive when I was in the SC low country, but hills mostly required third to prevent excessive kickdowns. Also have towed several Discos with the Disco, so thats 5500 lbs minimum.

 

I'm thinking more about the transmission getting too hot in "Drive" (OD)...

 

It will tow it, no problem!! I have towed at 5000 lbs vehicle with no problem. If your disco is in good working order. Your temps are within 180-195 your fine. Go with it..

 

Weight isn't the issue 23ft of travel trailer will be no fun

 

I have a weight distribution hitch...The manual says NOT to use one...

Does that make any sense?

 

By the way...My 2002 Discovery does not have ACE or air suspension options...

 

I've towed 7300 lbs behind my Disco in in the mountains, but it was in a 16' stock trailer. I've also pulled 6000 lbs worth of 26' travel trailer both with and without the distribution hitch. Lemme say, the hitch is necessary. Even with the hitch that's not a fun haul. It can be done, but it's not fun. I also had my Disco set up with trailer brakes (necessary, more than the hitch) and dual transmission coolers.

How far are you planning to travel with it? Does your camper have a slide? Another thing fighting you is the 4.0 motor. Mine had a pretty well hopped up 4.6.

 

I've towed a D2 on a dolly for a 2.5hr trip, and a D1 on a dolly for nearly a 4.0hr trip with my 99 D2. I drove with OD off, and my temps were perfectly fine. Just don't expect to accelerate quickly! People don't give LR's credit when it comes to towing, but they can get the job done.

I've already seen several Jeep Gladiator accidents with very big trailers because they think it's just like any other 60K pickup truck out there and it can haul anything, sadly that isn't true lol.