Just bought a sidekick and in the process of putting in a replacement engine.  Going to use it to comute approx. 34 miles one way. Can take interstate or regular roads.  Just curious to know if the 1.6 16 valves has any trouble running |removethispart|@ interstate speeds. Also am thinking about towing a fishing boat.  Approx. 1200 lbs. max weight.  Anybody do this and any problems.  Will sure save miles and gas over the Hemi.

Great forum!!!!!

Thanks!!!

I tow with my 4 door. I have a 15' boat around 1000 lbs and also our utility trailer that can weight alot when loaded going to the dump. I have the 8 valve in mine and hills kina sucked. it was great when it was stock though!

I have caught flack on this subject before, because my views are a bit more conservative than most.  I would check the owner's manual for towing recommendations.  I suspect that your boat is a bit heavier than recommended without trailer brakes.  Most people think only about having enough power to pull the weight, but making an emergency stop without adequate brakes is not a pleasant experience.

reb is 100% correct = no flack from this end 

It should handle that weight ok. Being a 16V helps.

If it is an auto do not use "overdrive" when towing , if it is a manual then use 4th gear max when towing - these are the strongest gears for towing situations. Use of od or 5th gear can cause failure over time.

My 2c

ZeusZuki 

I have caught flack on this subject before, because my views are a bit more conservative than most.  I would check the owner's manual for towing recommendations.  I suspect that your boat is a bit heavier than recommended without trailer brakes.  Most people think only about having enough power to pull the weight, but making an emergency stop without adequate brakes is not a pleasant experience.

Reb:
No flack from me!  Very good advice.

I commute 26 miles round trip in my '93 'Kick JLX 4-door 1.6 16 valve with the 4-speed auto and get 24 MPG.  She's a bit sluggish on cold mornings but can keep up with 70MPH traffic easy once the cobwebs are cleared out.  The long wheelbase makes for a world of difference in the ride quality - I also own a '96 Tracker 2-door and an '88 Samurai and the ride difference is HUGE!