Jeep Liberty as a TOAD?

[scoggins_jim]

I am considering buying an 06 Liberty diesel and have a few questions
> of you. The vehicle will be used as a TOAD behind a motor coach. I
> have been towing a 91 Wrangler and am more than satisfied regarding
> the ease of use as a tow vehicle. I have no intention to use it for
> serious off roading: Snow and mud will usually be the worst case.
> Power line trails and logging roads will be used occassionally.
>
> I understand brand loyalty but please try to be intellectually honest
> with your answers. If my questions are redundant please refer me to
> the appropriate sites.
>
> Q1. Many all wheel drive vehicles are restricted from being towed 4
> wheels down. This does not appear to be the case in Jeep. What pros
> and cons are there regarding the two choices: Select-Trac and
> Command-Trac.
> It seems that the Command Trac might be a simple system with less
> moving parts.
>
> Q2. Other than the amenities, are there any substantive differences
> between the Sport and LE. Stated otherwise, is there something in the
> LE that it of such over-riding importance, performance wide, that is
> worth the extra expense and weight.
>
> Q3. Do you all see any need for the skid plates. I sense, given the
> way I screw things up, they could be handy after I have gotten in
> over my head.
>
> Q4. I have been unable to find any real information on the diesel
> engine. I understand it is of Euro linage but who and where. Rumor
> mill says built in Italy. Have there been any real issues with this
> engine?
>
> Q5. I have been lurking and skulking about on this web site trying to
> get some insight on issues. There seems to be some goofy items: Water
> spots on seats, weird lighting issues, moaning brakes, etc. Other some
> ball joint issues I have not seen anything really bad. Everyone seems
> happy with engines and drive trains. Is this the case, or are there
> drive train issues I have not picked up on. By he way, does a heay
> applicaon of Scoch Guard, solve the seat spotting problem.
>
> Q6. Are there any of you that have owned both a diesel and gas
> Liberties? Comments?
>
> Q7. What are the maintenance intervals and is there anything really
> unusual? I am familiar with diesel engines as I have a Power Stroke in
> a Ford, a Kabota in a farm tractor and a Cummins in a Bluebird, but
> have no experience with small automotive applications. I understand
> that 4 wheel drive is a little more intensive service wise, but I am
> asking about anything that is really unusual.
>
> Q8. My take is the Sport might be a better choice for me in that there
> are fewer ammenities to cause nit-noid problems. Comments?
>
> Thank you for your responses in advance and for bearing with a newbe
> wanabe.
>
> Regards,
> Jim Scoggins