I've had a few 4L30E's now and haven't had any issues, especially with the current 140K mile unit in our IronMan. And we do tow quite a bit with it, up to 7500lbs for short hauls too (Caterpillar 22). The transmission is likely quite up to task for normal driving habits with occassional towing and off-roading, and where it runs into problems is when folk start pushing it's limits with bigger tires and lifts or constant towing/off-roading. Few laymen understand that mechanical loads often increase in an exponential fashion which leads to early and sometimes catastrophic failures.
Fortunately with the Axiom you have an option that not only increases power and economy, but does so with a very capable transmission and a transfer case that comes equipped with an electronic 2WD mode. Keep looking, you'll find a good '04!
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