Discover the impressive towing capacity and payload capabilities of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma with our expert guide.
From the Regular Cab to the Double Cab, we’ll explore each cab type and provide comprehensive charts for easy reference. We’ll also dive into the details of Tacoma’s towing capacity, payload capacity, and tongue load to understand its true capabilities.
Get ready to unlock the full potential of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma and take your adventures to new heights.
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma has a maximum Towing Capacity ranging between 3,500 to 5,000 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity ranging from 1,375 to 2,005 lbs.
These capacities can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), drive, engine, and other factors.
2004 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity and Payload Capacity Chart
| Cab Type | Towing Capacity (Std./Max.) | Payload 4×2 (man./auto.) | Payload PreRunner (man./auto.) | Payload 4×4 (man./auto.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cab | 3,500/3,500 lbs. | 1,500/1,480 lbs. | NA/2,005 lbs. | 1,810/1,780 lbs. |
| Xtracab | 3,500/3,500 lbs. | 1,550/1,530 lbs. | NA/1,830 lbs. | 1,630/1,600 lbs. |
| S-Runner V6 | 3,500/3,500 lbs. | 1,375 lbs. | NA | NA |
| Xtracab V6 | 3,500/5,000 lbs. | NA | NA/1,745 lbs. | 1,585/1,560 lbs. |
| Double Cab | 3,500/3,500 lbs. | NA | NA/1,670 lbs. | NA |
| Double Cab V6 | 3,500/3,500 lbs. | NA | NA/1,625 lbs. | NA/1,395 lbs. |
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma offers various cab types with towing capacities ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 lbs and payload capacities ranging from 1,375 to 2,005 lbs.
These capacities ensure that the Tacoma can handle a wide range of towing and payload needs, making it a versatile and dependable choice.
Read on to discover the impressive towing and payload capacities of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma and see charts of what Toyota offers in this 2004 Toyota Tacoma model.
Whether you’re planning to tow a trailer or carry a heavy payload, understanding these capabilities is essential.
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the Toyota Tacoma.
Here I’ve collected all the 2004 Toyota Tacoma towing and payload capacity information from the official Toyota resources that include the 2004 Toyota Tacoma Brochure and 2004 Toyota Tacoma.
2004 Toyota Tacoma Overview
Here we will take you through the various model grades, cab options, engine choices, and option packages available for this classic truck.
We will also discuss the transmission options that you can choose from to suit your driving preferences.
Cab Options, Engine Choices, and Transmission:
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma comes in three cab options to cater to different customer preferences:
- Regular Cab
- Xtracab
- Double Cab
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma boasts 3 distinct engine options, catering to a variety of performance preferences.
- 2.4-Liter 4-Cylinder: produces 142 hp at 5,000 rpm and 160 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm;
- 2.7-Liter 4-Cylinder: delivers 150 hp at 4,800 rpm and 177 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm;
- 3.4-Liter V6: generates 190 hp at 4,800 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm.
There are three transmission options available for the 2004 Toyota Tacoma:
- 5-speed manual with overdrive
- 4-speed automatic with overdrive
- 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive
Option Packages:
There are six option packages available for the 2004 Toyota Tacoma, allowing you to customize your truck to suit your needs:
- SR5 Chrome Package
- SR5 Color-Keyed Package
- Limited Package
- TRD Off-Road Package
- Enhancement Package
- Convenience Package
2004 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma comes in various cab configurations, each with unique specifications that cater to different needs.
2004 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity Chart
Below is the overview of each cab type, detailing their towing capacities, payload capabilities, and more.
Regular Cab
The Regular Cab of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma is a compact, two-door configuration offering great fuel efficiency and agility. Ideal for everyday tasks, this model is available in 4×2, PreRunner, and 4×4 configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The Regular Cab has a standard and maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, suitable for light-duty towing tasks.
- Payload: Payload capacities range from 1,480 to 2,005 lbs, depending on the transmission and drivetrain.
- GCWR and GVWR: GCWR ranges from 6,700 to 7,400 lbs, while GVWR varies between 4,500 and 5,100 lbs, based on drivetrain configuration.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 3,500 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 350 | 350 | 350 |
| GCWR (lbs.) | 6,700 | 7,400 | 7,400 |
| GVWR (lbs.) | 4,500 | 5,100 | 5,100 |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | 1,500/1,480 | NA/2,005 | 1,810/1,780 |
Xtracab
The Xtracab of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma offers additional storage space behind the front seats, making it ideal for carrying more cargo or equipment. Like the Regular Cab, this model is available in 4×2, PreRunner, and 4×4 configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The Xtracab has a standard and maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, similar to the Regular Cab.
- Payload: Payload capacities range from 1,530 to 1,830 lbs, depending on the transmission and drivetrain.
- GCWR and GVWR: GCWR is consistent at 7,400 lbs for all configurations, while GVWR varies between 4,500 and 5,100 lbs.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 3,500 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 350 | 350 | 350 |
| GCWR (lbs.) | 6,700 | 7,400 | 7,400 |
| GVWR (lbs.) | 4,500 | 5,100 | 5,100 |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | 1,550/1,530 | NA/1,830 | 1,630/1,600 |
S-Runner V6
The S-Runner V6 of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma boasts a sporty look and a powerful V6 engine, delivering an exciting driving experience. This model is available only in a 4×2 configuration.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The S-Runner V6 offers a standard and maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs.
- Payload: The payload capacity for this model is 1,375 lbs.
- GCWR and GVWR: The S-Runner V6 has a GCWR of 6,800 lbs and a GVWR of 4,250 lbs.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 3,500 | NA | NA |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | 350 | NA | NA |
| GCWR (lbs.) | 6,800 | NA | NA |
| GVWR (lbs.) | 4,250 | NA | NA |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | 1,375 | NA | NA |
Xtracab V6
The Xtracab V6 of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma combines the extended space of the Xtracab with the power of a V6 engine, providing improved performance and towing capabilities. This model is available in PreRunner and 4×4 configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The Xtracab V6 offers an increased maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making it suitable for heavier towing tasks.
- Payload: Payload capacities range from 1,560 to 1,745 lbs, depending on the transmission and drivetrain.
- GCWR and GVWR: The Xtracab V6 has a higher GCWR of 9,000 lbs compared to the non-V6 Xtracab, while its GVWR varies between 4,500 and 5,100 lbs.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 3,500/5,000 | 3,500/5,000 |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 350/500 | 350/500 |
| GCWR (lbs.) | NA | 9,000 | 9,000 |
| GVWR (lbs.) | NA | 5,100 | NA |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | NA | NA/1,745 | 1,585/1,560 |
Double Cab
The Double Cab of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma is a four-door configuration, offering a spacious interior for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for both work and family use. This model is available in PreRunner and 4×4 configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The Double Cab has a standard and maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, suitable for light-duty towing tasks.
- Payload: Payload capacities range from 1,670 lbs for the PreRunner with an automatic transmission to an unspecified amount for the other configurations.
- GCWR and GVWR: GCWR is consistent at 7,400 lbs for all configurations, while GVWR is 5,100 lbs for both PreRunner and 4×4 configurations.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 3,500 | 3,500 |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 350 | 350 |
| GCWR (lbs.) | NA | 7,400 | 7,400 |
| GVWR (lbs.) | NA | 5,100 | 5,100 |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | NA | NA/1,670 | NA |
Double Cab V6
The Double Cab V6 of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma pairs the spacious interior of the Double Cab with a powerful V6 engine, offering improved performance and towing capabilities. This model is available in PreRunner and 4×4 configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Towing Capacity: The Double Cab V6 maintains a standard and maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, similar to the non-V6 Double Cab.
- Payload: Payload capacities range from 1,395 to 1,625 lbs, depending on the transmission and drivetrain.
- GCWR and GVWR: The Double Cab V6 has a GCWR of 9,000 lbs for both PreRunner and 4×4 configurations, while its GVWR remains at 5,100 lbs.
| Specification | 4×2 | PreRunner | 4×4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 3,500 | 3,500 |
| Tongue Load (Standard/Maximum) (lbs.) | NA | 350 | 350 |
| GCWR (lbs.) | NA | 9,000 | 9,000 |
| GVWR (lbs.) | NA | 5,100 | 5,100 |
| Payload Capacity (man./auto.) (lbs.) | NA | NA/1,625 | NA/1,395 |
Payload Capacity & GVWR
Payload capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight a vehicle can carry, including passengers and cargo, without exceeding the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
The maximum payload capacity for each cab configuration is as follows:
| Cab Type | GVWR (4×2) | GVWR (PreRunner) | GVWR (4×4) | Max Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cab | 4,500 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 2,005 lbs. |
| Xtracab | 4,500 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 1,830 lbs. |
| S-Runner V6 | 4,250 lbs. | NA | NA | 1,375 lbs. |
| Xtracab V6 | 4,500 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | NA | 1,745 lbs. |
| Double Cab | NA | 5,100 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 1,670 lbs. |
| Double Cab V6 | NA | 5,100 lbs. | 5,100 lbs. | 1,625 lbs. |
Regular Cab
For the Regular Cab, the highest GVWR is found in the PreRunner and 4×4 configurations, both offering 5,100 lbs.
The 4×2 configuration has a GVWR of 4,500 lbs. The maximum payload capacity is 2,005 lbs in the PreRunner automatic configuration.
Xtracab
In the Xtracab, the highest GVWR is also found in the PreRunner and 4×4 configurations, both offering 5,100 lbs, while the 4×2 configuration offers a GVWR of 4,500 lbs.
The maximum payload capacity is 1,830 lbs in the PreRunner automatic configuration.
S-Runner V6
For the S-Runner V6, the highest GVWR is available only in the 4×2 configuration at 4,250 lbs. The maximum payload capacity for this configuration is 1,375 lbs.
Xtracab V6
The Xtracab V6 offers the highest GVWR in the PreRunner configuration, at 5,100 lbs, while the 4×2 configuration has a GVWR of 4,500 lbs.
The maximum payload capacity is 1,745 lbs in the PreRunner automatic configuration.
Double Cab
The Double Cab configuration has the highest GVWR in both the PreRunner and 4×4 configurations, with 5,100 lbs each.
The maximum payload capacity is 1,670 lbs in the PreRunner automatic configuration.
Double Cab V6
Lastly, the Double Cab V6 configuration offers the highest GVWR in both PreRunner and 4×4 configurations, with 5,100 lbs each.
The maximum payload capacity is 1,625 lbs in the PreRunner automatic configuration.
2004 Toyota Tacoma Tongue Load
Tongue Load is the downward force exerted by the trailer tongue onto the hitch of the towing vehicle. It’s usually 10% of the Trailer Weight or Towing Capacity.
For example, if the towing capacity of your 2004 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 Double Cab is 3,500 lbs. then the tongue load is 10% of this capacity which is equal to 350 lbs.
It’s important to balance the tongue load as it affects the stability of the vehicle and trailer while driving.
Below is a table that summarizes the Tongue Load for each cab configuration of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma:
| Cab Type | Drive Type | Tongue Load |
|---|---|---|
| Regular | 4×2, PreRunner, 4×4 | 350/350 lbs. |
| Xtracab | 4×2, PreRunner, 4×4 | 350/350 lbs. |
| S-Runner V6 | 4×2 | 350/350 lbs. |
| Xtracab V6 | 4×2, PreRunner, 4×4 | 350/500 lbs. |
| Double Cab | 4×2, PreRunner, 4×4 | 350/350 lbs. |
| Double Cab V6 | PreRunner, 4×4 | 350/350 lbs. |
Expert Guide to Toyota Tacoma Towing and Payload Capacities
When it comes to the Toyota Tacoma, understanding its towing and payload capabilities is essential for optimizing its performance and ensuring safe operation.
In this section, we will provide key insights and recommendations for each model.
- Weight Considerations: Remember that all weight figures include occupants, equipment, and cargo. A Class III or IV hitch receiver and sway control device are either required or recommended for additional equipment.
- V6 Model Upgrades: For V6 Tacoma models, it is advised to upgrade the alternator for enhanced performance.
- Towing Compatibility and Safety: Prior to towing, confirm that your vehicle and trailer are compatible, properly hooked up, and equipped with all necessary additional gear. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and review all instructions and cautions from your trailer hitch manufacturer and Toyota vehicle Owner’s Manual.
- Maximum Towing Capacity: The maximum towing capacity depends on the total weight of cargo, occupants, and available equipment in the vehicle. For models with the available 5,000-lb. Tow Package, a Class III tow hitch is required.
- Off-Road Driving: Toyota Tacomas are designed to meet most off-road driving requirements, but abusive use may result in bodily harm or damage. Toyota encourages responsible operation to protect you, your vehicle, and the environment.
- Payload Capacity: The Tacoma can achieve a payload capacity of up to 2,005 lbs. with the available Style Package.
By following these expert recommendations, you can ensure that your Toyota Tacoma performs at its best, offering you a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
FAQs
How much can a 2004 Toyota Tacoma V6 tow?
A 2004 Toyota Tacoma V6 can tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with the available Tow Package and a Class III tow hitch.
Keep in mind that the actual towing capacity will depend on the total weight of cargo, occupants, and available equipment in the vehicle.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2004 Toyota Tacoma offers a versatile range of towing and payload capacities to meet various hauling needs.
With a maximum towing capacity between 3,500 lbs to 5,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 2,005 lbs, the Tacoma is a reliable and capable choice for light to medium-duty tasks.
It’s essential to consider factors such as the vehicle’s curb weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), drive type, and engine configuration when determining its capabilities.
Always consult your Owner’s Manual and adhere to recommended weight ratings and guidelines to ensure safe and efficient towing and hauling experiences.
With this information in hand, you can confidently choose the 2004 Toyota Tacoma that best suits your needs and make the most of its impressive capabilities.
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