ok to tow folks out of snowdrifts w/96 T100?

Have read much about the head gasket issue on 93 thru 95s w/the 3.0. Have now had my 96 4wd SR5 with a 3.4 for a week. A couple winters back, I used to pull folks out of snowdrifts and ditches for pizza money with the kids. But before I do that with this vehicle, wanted to see if that head gasket is also an issue on the 96+ Ts. Would hate to screw up this fine truck. Anyone else doing that with no problems?

Make sure you are using the proper tow point. What are you using? Straps, cables, chains? ;)

Do you have lockers on yer truck? If you think about gitting some...go with the ARB ones. They are selectable (on/off) on demand so yer not dealing with the other issues of the other setups.

I don't know of any issues...do you know if yer truck had any work done on the head gaskets?

I'd be using a 25 ft towstrap and have pulled lots of folks out with my 94 Pathfinder (has been gone for 2 yrs now). Looked over the front of the T, seeing one tow hook on right front (not sure if it came that way or is missing the left). Don't have much on prior history except the Carfax, so can't tell if HG was done. I did see a timing chain replacement sticker when I changed the plugs last week. I'm in the Chitown area and the vehicle was originally purchased around here (but spent last few yrs in FLA) so might contact that dealer to see if they can share the service record.

I'd just feel a lot more comfortable knowing whether the 3.4s had a headgasket issue before I start torquing folks out of drifts.

the front is not missing a hook. Mine has one hook also on 1 side

I have had my 1996 since new. I did get a recommended recall years ago about the head gaskets. Never took it in and never have had a problem with it over heating. I did put a transmission cooler on it because the tranny over heat light kept coming on when I towed my boat or pup camper for any long distances. No problems after that.

Would hate to screw up this fine truck. Anyone else doing that with no problems?

Call the dealer with your VIN to find out if the headgasket work has ever been performed. Its a recall issue so you pay nothing. When I had mine done, I paid to have a bunch of other parts replaced since the engine was already opened up (water pump, cam bearings, etc.).

I say pull away and make some money, just never use chains to yank someone, always use straps. When the chain breaks, its gonna f%$k your truck up good!

yep X2 no on chains
i have a 95 sr5 3.4 and this year with all the snow out i have to constantly pull my dads dodge plow truck.
but i will tell u the T-100 is so light it is pretty hard to do .
so you have to put a bunch of sand bags in bag or throw a four wheeler or snowmobile in back.
the rope i use stretches about 6 feet before actually pulling when yanking.
never had a problem resulting from yanking