I'm a newbie here. Looking to purchase a TT and TV really soon. Given all the towing horror stories going around, I'm very apprehensive about subjecting my wife and 2 small kids to anything that might be dangerous. Of course, the dealerships and reps are all telling me I'm completely in the clear. I've read through countless posts trying to confirm this is a safe pairing but can't find anything completely on point. I could really use some expert advice on whether this pairing is a bad idea before I pull the trigger.
I'm looking to buy a 2017 Chevy Tahoe w/ Max Trailering package that comes with INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER.
Here are the Chevy Tahoe specs:
engine: 5.3L EcoTec3 V8
wheelbase: 116in
Towing capacity: 8,600 lbs.
length: 204in
rear axle ratio: 3.42
Gross Combined Weight Rating: 14,000 lbs.
Rear Axle Rating: 4300 lbs.
Actual unloaded weight (only driver and gas): 3408 lbs.
Dry Weight: 5356 lbs.
The TT we're looking at is the Forest River Wildcat Maxx lite T265BHX.
Here are the specs:
GVWR: 7828 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 828 lbs.
UVW: 6496 lbs.
CCC: 1332 lbs.
Exterior Length: 31' 8"
The TT dealership is talking about installing the Fastway E2 distribution hitch.
Whats the verdict? Anyone heard of that hitch? any recommendations to make it safer? Or, is this a dangerous pairing? Thanks so much for the help.
With a UVW of 6500 lbs that trailer won't weigh any less than 7500 lbs loaded and ready to camp, probably closer to 8000 lbs with a family of four and all the junk families tend to drag along with them. Gross tongue weight could therefore easily run 1000 to 1100 lbs, seriously cutting into the truck's payload capacity and limiting what else you can carry - people and cargo. In reference to the truck you said - "Actual unloaded weight (only driver and gas): 3408 lbs" but I have no idea what this means
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/scratchead.gif "scratchead")
as this truck will certainly weigh a LOT more than that, I'd guess closer to 5700 lbs. Tough to do with a truck you don't own but the solution is to go weigh it with a full tank of gas. Allow an additional 100 lbs for any hitch equipment you may use, if you're in it at the time subtract your weight from the scale reading and you'll have the truck's curb weight as it sits there ready to be hitched to a trailer. Subtract that number from it's GVWR which is listed on the driver side door jamb sticker and you'll have it's actual payload capacity, that which you will use to account for the weight of everyone and all additional cargo. What's left is what you will use to account for trailer tongue weight transferred to the truck - exceed that and you're certain to exceed it's GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating). Believe it - you won't come anywhere near to that 14,000 lb GCWR without easily exceeding the truck's actual payload capacity. ![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/eek.gif "eek")
A wheelbase of just 116" is IMO way too short for towing a trailer of this size and although the E2 is a reasonable WD for some I suspect you'd want to go with at least an Equal-i-zer (big brother to the E2), Blue Ox Sway Pro, Reese Dual Cam, etc. In fact, wheelbase of this vehicle might even justify the expense of a Hensley Arrow or ProPride 3P to keep that trailer properly under control at all times under all road & weather conditions. JMO, but a crew cab truck such as a Silverado with a much longer wheelbase would be a far better solution for towing than this Tahoe you're considering.
What is the max payload figure from the yellow sticker on the drivers door jamb? That's your limiting factor. However, the tahoe with its short wheelbase and soft suspension would be overwhelmed by a 31' TT.
You asked about being dangerous, yes that pairing would be in my opinion, and that's not even getting into weights. With your family of 4 and all your gear, I'm pretty confident you'll be over your payload rating. If you want the tahoe, you need to select a shorter and lighter trailer. 6500 gvwr or less (trailer) preferably 6k max gvwr. Again, just my opinion.
My trailer is 6k gvwr and the 15 Silverado 5.3/3.42 pulled it great, but loaded for a weeks camping trip, i only had about 300 lbs of payload left, and my limit was 1704lbs. Likely higher than the tahoe your looking at. Honestly I'd not have wanted that much trailer behind my Silverado.
Good luck.
2017 Dodge Ram 2500 HD, 4x4, CCSB, 6.4L HEMI, Snow Chief, tow package.,1989 Skyline Layton model 75-2251.
Plus, you want LT tires on the tow vehicle and a min. load rating of "D" on the trailer tires. Pay attention to that.
2017 Grand Design Imagine 2650RK
2019 F250 XLT Supercab
Just DW & me......
DANSKIR wrote:
Hey Guys,
I'm a newbie here. Looking to purchase a TT and TV really soon. Given all the towing horror stories going around, I'm very apprehensive about subjecting my wife and 2 small kids to anything that might be dangerous. Of course, the dealerships and reps are all telling me I'm completely in the clear. I've read through countless posts trying to confirm this is a safe pairing but can't find anything completely on point. I could really use some expert advice on whether this pairing is a bad idea before I pull the trigger.
I'm looking to buy a 2017 Chevy Tahoe w/ Max Trailering package that comes with INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER.
Here are the Chevy Tahoe specs:
engine: 5.3L EcoTec3 V8
wheelbase: 116in
Towing capacity: 8,600 lbs.
length: 204in
rear axle ratio: 3.42
Gross Combined Weight Rating: 14,000 lbs.
Rear Axle Rating: 4300 lbs.
Actual unloaded weight (only driver and gas): 3408 lbs.
Dry Weight: 5356 lbs.
The TT we're looking at is the Forest River Wildcat Maxx lite T265BHX.
Here are the specs:
GVWR: 7828 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 828 lbs.
UVW: 6496 lbs.
CCC: 1332 lbs.
Exterior Length: 31' 8"
The TT dealership is talking about installing the Fastway E2 distribution hitch.
Whats the verdict? Anyone heard of that hitch? any recommendations to make it safer? Or, is this a dangerous pairing? Thanks so much for the help.
Hey Guys,
I'm a newbie here. Looking to purchase a TT and TV really soon. Given all the towing horror stories going around, I'm very apprehensive about subjecting my wife and 2 small kids to anything that might be dangerous. Of course, the dealerships and reps are all telling me I'm completely in the clear. I've read through countless posts trying to confirm this is a safe pairing but can't find anything completely on point. I could really use some expert advice on whether this pairing is a bad idea before I pull the trigger.
I'm looking to buy a 2017 Chevy Tahoe w/ Max Trailering package that comes with INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER.
Here are the Chevy Tahoe specs:
engine: 5.3L EcoTec3 V8
wheelbase: 116in
Towing capacity: 8,600 lbs.
length: 204in
rear axle ratio: 3.42
Gross Combined Weight Rating: 14,000 lbs.
Rear Axle Rating: 4300 lbs.
Actual unloaded weight (only driver and gas): 3408 lbs.
Dry Weight: 5356 lbs.
The TT we're looking at is the Forest River Wildcat Maxx lite T265BHX.
Here are the specs:
GVWR: 7828 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 828 lbs.
UVW: 6496 lbs.
CCC: 1332 lbs.
Exterior Length: 31' 8"
The TT dealership is talking about installing the Fastway E2 distribution hitch.
Whats the verdict? Anyone heard of that hitch? any recommendations to make it safer? Or, is this a dangerous pairing? Thanks so much for the help.
I had almost the same setup on my truck this is what I did to be able to pull my TT that is only 6,500lbs loaded.
1. Changed the gear ratio in the rear end from a 3.08 to 3.73 which also requires a tuner to correct the shift patterns.
2. Bought and installed a Super Tuner FlashPaq to correct shift points back to stock.
3. Installed an additional tranny cooler for a total of 3 all together. May be overkill but on a 6,000 mile trip through the west coast in summer tranny never got over 175 degrees.
4. Changed tires on TV to a heavier load rated set.
5. A good quality weight distribution hitch and sway controls.
6. installed break controller and installed fuse in fuse box to charge TT batteries while I am towing.
I did all that to tow just 6,500lbs and it did just fine but I would not pull anything heavier without going up to a bigger truck. In my honest opinion you are over loading your current TV and pushing its limitations. I think you should look into a smaller TT if you have not already bought.
And the previous poster is correct never listen to the dealers they just want you money and that is it. Most of the dealers I went to kept telling me I could tow up to a 7,000 lbs fifth wheel with my truck in its stock form. And when they informed me of this I always called them on it because we both knew they where full of ****.
2018 Ram 3500 DRW
2015 Heartland Big Country 3650RL
Great Smokey Mountains
The tongue weight of the 265BHX trailer you are considering is already at 13%(828#) of the dry weight 6500#. Loaded up ready to camp I estimate the tongue to be 13 to 15% of 7800#. (1014 to 1170lbs)
My TT at 7200# is closer to 1200 tongue weight with a full water tank. I replaced the 20# propane tanks with 30's and added a 2nd battery. But my Suburban is a 3/4ton and has a classV hitch receiver with a 2400# tongue weight capacity and 16000# tow rating which exceeds the TV's ratings.
The newer Tahoe/Suburbans have an integral hitch receiver with a crumple zone built in. That is where the 1000# hitch weight limit comes from. The real limit on the newer Tahoe/Suburbans is the receivers. But the dealer sales person doesn't have a clue about it. They just regurgitate the max tow rating of 8600# and you get stuck with a trailer that is too tongue heavy for the hitch.
It's really nice that you're doing your homework before signing on the dotted line.
Me'62, DW'67, DS'04, DD'07
'03 Chevy Suburban 2500LT 4WD Vortec8.1L 4L85-E 3.73 CurtClassV
'09 BulletPremier295BHS 33'4" 7200#Loaded 1100#Tongue Equal-i-zerHitch Tires:Kumho857
Pics
Basically, more TT tongue weight means less people and camp gear and toys.
My 5000 lb dry weight TT weighs 6200 lbs across the scales when loaded for the road. This puts 750 lbs on the tongue.
This plus my wife, dog and gear put me at my max cargo limit.
Twenty six foot 2010 Dutchmen Lite pulled with a 2011 EcoBoost F-150 4x4.
Just right for Grandpa, Grandma and the dog.
2016 Chevy Tahoe
2017 Flagstaff 26FKWS
(Picture in profile)
"The best things in life are the people you love, the places you've seen,
and the memories you've made along the way".
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
I have that exact same Tahoe. A full tank of gas with just me inside weighs 5960 pounds (me 200#).
I have that exact same Tahoe. A full tank of gas with just me inside weighs 5960 pounds (me 200#).
So my earlier guess of ~ 5700 lbs was pretty close to your base weight of 5760 lbs. Add ~ 100 lbs for weight distribution and we're talking ~ 5860 lbs for this vehicle, full tank of gas, no one in it and no cargo, but ready to be hitched to a trailer. IIRC it's GVWR is 7300 lbs - subtract 5860 lbs and we have a maximum potential payload of 1440 lbs. Subtract even 1000 lbs for trailer tongue weight and that leaves a mere 440 lbs for all people and all cargo added to the vehicle as well. If the actual scaled weight is even higher the story will be even worse. My own view is if this Tahoe isn't negotiable to a 3/4 ton then the OP really needs to downsize the trailer to something more reasonable, say 6000 lbs fully loaded & ready to camp, with an average gross tongue weight somewhere around 750 to 800 lbs. Even at that he's going to end up using pretty well all of his available payload capacity. Regardless, none of this is going to compensate for an excessively short wheelbase of just 116" so the shorter the trailer the better if he insists on this Tahoe as a TV.
My own anecdotal story ...
For several years I towed our KZ Spree triple bunk bed trailer which averaged ~ 5500 lbs loaded and ready to camp, measured 26' 9" coupler to bumper, with our 2006 Silverado, 5.3L, 3.42 axles coupled to a wide ratio 4-spd transmission. Wheelbase of that vehicle was 143.5" and using an Equal-i-zer to glue the two together the combination towed well, 'though certainly steep upgrades would have me towing in 2nd rather than 3rd, Tow / Haul always engaged. When the lease expired on that truck I bought our current 2005 Avalanche - same engine, same transmission, same axle ratio - but with a shorter 130" wheelbase. Towing stability didn't change but I did find it easier to back into campsites where access to the site was really tight ... but I certainly wouldn't want any shorter a wheelbase for towing a travel trailer of this size. These days I tow a shorter couple's trailer averaging ~ 4500 lbs loaded & ready to camp, measuring 22' 6" coupler to bumper, but interestingly it doesn't tow significantly better than it did with the Spree which was ~ 1000 lbs heavier. Wind resistance created by a trailer's "barn door" profile is the culprit and only when I strip the trailer at the end of the season do I notice any towing advantage at all.
* This post was edited 02/14/17 08:10am by SoundGuy *
* This post was edited 02/14/17 04:04pm by JnJnKatiebug *
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
Look at my profile for a picture of the hitch I use on my Tahoe.
Look at my profile for a picture of the hitch I use on my Tahoe.
To make it easy for others ...
![[image]](http://i.imgur.com/64wUb5Sl.jpg)
Similar to an Equal-i-zer, I'm guessing a Husky Centerline?
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/huh.gif "huh")
You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality – Ayn Rand
If you are looking at a GMC/Chevy Suburban type vehicle then go for the XL Yukons with the tow package and the bigger engines; 2500 at least
DOUBLE CHECK THE RPO STICKER IN THE GLOVE BOX AND MAKE SURE THAT IT REALLY IS RATED TO TOW AND IF IT HAS THE AUX. COOLER.
NEVER (EVER) go by what the salesman says
Definitely wont be completely accurate but Foubd info from this: http://media.chevrolet.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/vehicles/tahoe/2016.tab1.html
the curb weight is 5466 lbs
The payload is 1702 lbs.
Gvwr: is 7100 lbs
Assuming the loaded weight is 7800# and tongue weight is right around the 1k point.
Still a no go?
Thanks
bob213 wrote:
My son in law had about the same setup. Pure white knuckle driving. Took most of the fun out of each trip worrying about the drive there and then home. You need more tow vehicle.
My son in law had about the same setup. Pure white knuckle driving. Took most of the fun out of each trip worrying about the drive there and then home. You need more tow vehicle.
My Tahoe and trailer is not white knuckle driving but my trailer is around 29 1/2 feet and 6500# loaded and ready to roll. It pulls straight with no wiggle in the middle. I just don't have enough power. I have been all over CA, he will for sure need more power on those climbs. A Tahoe will tow great with the right hitch. When I retire I will have a diesel, but I will also probably have a bigger trailer.
DANSKIR wrote:
Definitely wont be completely accurate but found info from this: http://media.chevrolet.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/vehicles/tahoe/2016.tab1.html
the curb weight is 5466 lbs
The payload is 1702 lbs.
Gvwr: is 7100 lbs
Assuming the loaded weight is 7800# and tongue weight is right around the 1k point.
Still a no go?
Definitely wont be completely accurate but found info from this: http://media.chevrolet.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/vehicles/tahoe/2016.tab1.html
the curb weight is 5466 lbs
The payload is 1702 lbs.
Gvwr: is 7100 lbs
Assuming the loaded weight is 7800# and tongue weight is right around the 1k point.
Still a no go?
LINK
Wheelbase is still the same, 20" wheels are a poor choice compared to 18" as the engine will spin slower at any given road speed, 3.42 axle ratio despite a newer narrow range 6 spd transmission is still not as suitable for towing as is 3.73, GVWR of 7100 lbs gives away 200 lbs of payload capacity to a GVWR of 7300 lbs (I lost 500 lbs between my Silvy @ 7300 lbs and Avalanche @ 6800 lbs
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/mad.gif "mad")
), and that so-called "payload capacity" needs to be confirmed by actually weighing the truck with a full tank of gas to verify what it actually weighs and therefore what is real world payload capacity really is. Ultimately you'll do what you want but IMO a 32' trailer that you say you expect may hit 7800 lbs with 1000 lb of gross tongue weight is too much trailer for a Tahoe, particularly if you expect to be towing significant upgrades. ![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/frown.gif "frown")
I found another TT brand/model that we like and was hoping you would all chime in on this one too: the Passport Elite Grand Touring 2670BHWE. Dry weight is around 5200 lbs. Exterior length is still a bit long at 30'4". hitch weight is 624.
That does everyone think? still too big? which hitch would you recommend?
Thanks again
JD and Belinda
3 boys 3 girls
2017 Jayco 29QBS
2001 Excursion
Receiver is rated at 1000 pounds of TW when using a WDH. That's about 7000 pound loaded TT.
A & A parents of DD 2005, DS1 2007, DS2 2009
2011 Suburban 2500 6.0L 3.73 pulling 2011 Heartland North Trail 28BRS
2017 Subaru Outback 3.6R
2x 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV (Gray and Black Twins)
Towed a 32 ft TT with a short wheel base Expedition...NEVER AGAIN.
Just a few inches longer with my 1997 F150 and it was so much better and more relaxed.
as far as power the Sub and the Tahoe both have plenty. About 360 ish? Makes my 225HP my F150 had sound puny. (Which it was).
Here is the key to towing with a gas truck. Use the skinny pedal and mash it down. If you have to gear down the transmission when climbing hills then so be it. In other words, let the motor spin. My old 5.4 and 6.8 V10 would sometimes see 5,000 rpm for extended periods of time climbing mountains. No worries...that's what they are designed to do. Just don't be shocked when the motor goes to 4,500 RPM or so....it's not struggling..it working...something these 360 HP monsters do not have to do just carting around soccer balls and groceries. Let it work...it will be fine.
As far as the WD hitch is concerned... I'm old school and use a ProSeries round bar WD hitch and add on friction sway controls. No problems, just set them up right. Just like any other hitch.... and use two sway controls.
Thanks!
Jeremiah
TV-2022 Silverado 2WD
TT - Zinger 270BH
WD Hitch- HaulMaster 1,000 lb Round Bar
Dual Friction bar sway control
It’s Kind of Fun to do the Impossible
~Walt Disney~
DANSKIR wrote:
I found another TT brand/model that we like and was hoping you would all chime in on this one too: the Passport Elite Grand Touring 2670BHWE. Dry weight is around 5200 lbs. Exterior length is still a bit long at 30'4". hitch weight is 624.
That does everyone think? still too big? which hitch would you recommend?
I found another TT brand/model that we like and was hoping you would all chime in on this one too: the Passport Elite Grand Touring 2670BHWE. Dry weight is around 5200 lbs. Exterior length is still a bit long at 30'4". hitch weight is 624.
That does everyone think? still too big? which hitch would you recommend?
Better as far as the trailer is concerned but none of this addresses the Tahoe's shortcomings as a tow vehicle, particularly it's short wheelbase of just 116". As for WD, I too towed for years with an Equal-i-zer, haven't owned a Sway Pro but am quite familiar with how it works, and would agree the Sway Pro is the preferred choice between the two as it addresses pretty well all the shortcomings of the Equal-i-zer which is noisy in operation, requires torque wrenches which you likely don't have to properly set up (and later readjust), is a pain to reset the head angle washers, and requires complete replacement if you later decide to go to a heavier or lighter trailer. The Sway Pro however does use chains and for some that's a show stopper itself compared to the Equal-i-zer which has no chains at all. Personal choice, both will do an admirable job.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/biggrin.gif "biggrin")
That said, if you still insist on that short wheelbasse Tahoe I'd suggest you seriously considering investing in a much more costly Hensley Arrow or ProPride 3P, both of which are designed to eliminate sway before it even starts whereas pretty well every other system simply dampens sway.
SoundGuy wrote:
To the OP, perhaps this article discussing Trailer Towing vs Tow Vehicle Wheelbase will help clarify the issues involved. Opinions vary of course as to how strictly one should stick to a guideline like this but it nonetheless does point out just how inadequate a Tahoe's short 116" wheelbase is for towing a ~ 30' travel trailer. With any trailer this size you really should be looking at a crew cab style of truck with a much longer wheelbase. JMO.
To the OP, perhaps this article discussing Trailer Towing vs Tow Vehicle Wheelbase will help clarify the issues involved. Opinions vary of course as to how strictly one should stick to a guideline like this but it nonetheless does point out just how inadequate a Tahoe's short 116" wheelbase is for towing a ~ 30' travel trailer. With any trailer this size you really should be looking at a crew cab style of truck with a much longer wheelbase. JMO.
I'm sorry, but the blog was hardly definitive - just some guys opinion.
3/4 subs 2001 to 2006 desirable. 2007 on up limiting hitch.
2015 Keystone Springdale Summerland 257rl
Tow vehicle: 2003 GMC K1500 ext lb
Previous: 14 years of 3 popups and a hybrid tt
SoundGuy wrote:
To the OP, perhaps this article discussing Trailer Towing vs Tow Vehicle Wheelbase will help clarify the issues involved. Opinions vary of course as to how strictly one should stick to a guideline like this but it nonetheless does point out just how inadequate a Tahoe's short 116" wheelbase is for towing a ~ 30' travel trailer.
To the OP, perhaps this article discussing Trailer Towing vs Tow Vehicle Wheelbase will help clarify the issues involved. Opinions vary of course as to how strictly one should stick to a guideline like this but it nonetheless does point out just how inadequate a Tahoe's short 116" wheelbase is for towing a ~ 30' travel trailer.
totaldla wrote:
I'm sorry, but the blog was hardly definitive - just some guys opinion.
I'm sorry, but the blog was hardly definitive - just some guys opinion.
No need to be sorry, I did say "opinions vary of course ...". I also said "JMO" ... perhaps you missed it.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/awink.gif "awink")
Regardless of whether you agree with the specific numbers the point is towing an especially long 30'+ trailer with a short wheelbase vehicle like that Tahoe the OP wants to use is an invitation for a tail wagging the dog situation ... funny with a dog I suppose but not funny at all when towing several tons of travel trailer.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/wink.gif "wink")
With your larger family you may find it hard to keep the weight down.
In my opinion, it all about the hitch. Do not get a friction sway control hitch. You will need a good hitch. I think my Husky Centerline hitch is middle of the road but does a good job after I got it set up correctly. It took three adjustments and a couple of trips to the scales to get it right.
You have gotten some very good advice in this thread from a lot of good folks who are trying to help you from making a mistake. What you choose to do with it is up to you.
The wb issue is a real issue, on long trailers. I had a 2000 ford expedition Eddie Bauer that pulled the tt in my sig great. But my tt is 23' and 6k gvwr. A lot less trailer than what your looking at.
Just remeber if you exceed your ratings and get into an accident and hurt or worse someone, a good pkantiff lawyer will find that information out and use it to their full advantage.
Again, if your stuck on the Tahoe, i suggest you stay under 6500 lb loaded weight and under 26' trailer length. Your call. Again, good luck with your decision
DANSKIR wrote:
I'm conflicted about this wheelbase issue because I've read on other pages/ forums that It isnt really an issue at all.
I'm conflicted about this wheelbase issue because I've read on other pages/ forums that It isnt really an issue at all.
Of course - name pretty well any subject discussed here on the forums and you'll always have differing opinions. I have no dog in this race, I'm only offering what I've learned over the years we've been RVing ourselves ... what you choose to do is entirely up to you. Since you're stuck on a short wheelbase Tahoe an alternative that would certainly help (as I mentioned earlier) is to upgrade to either a Hensley Arrow or ProPride 3P, either of which are in a class by themselves, each designed for large trailer applications, and each capable of preventing sway before it begins. Certainly much more costly that even premium WD hitches like the Equal-i-zer or Sway Pro but rest assured, these hitches exist for a reason.
Used 3/4 truck 20k. New Tahoe 60k. Used 3/4 sub 8 to 14k. Do the math and see how a dedicated vehicle for recreation might be all you need. If I had a 3/4 pickup I'd own a truck camper and not two trailers.
Short story shorter, the bought a Nissan NV. Less than $35k before trade in. Plenty of payload and room for them, 3 kids, a dog and stuff. They say it rides nice and is maneuverable.
Just an idea.
Kip
2015 Skyline Dart 214RB
2018 Silverado Double Cab 4x4
Andersen Hitch
GrandpaKip wrote:
My kids just upgraded their TV. They were looking into a Tahoe or equivalent. The $50 to $60k was nuts in my opinion and the payload wasn't much better than their present truck.
Short story shorter, the bought a Nissan NV. Less than $35k before trade in. Plenty of payload and room for them, 3 kids, a dog and stuff. They say it rides nice and is maneuverable.
Just an idea.
My kids just upgraded their TV. They were looking into a Tahoe or equivalent. The $50 to $60k was nuts in my opinion and the payload wasn't much better than their present truck.
Short story shorter, the bought a Nissan NV. Less than $35k before trade in. Plenty of payload and room for them, 3 kids, a dog and stuff. They say it rides nice and is maneuverable.
Just an idea.
I had to go look up the Nissan NV van. Nearly 9,000 lbs towing! That's pretty impressive! Manage the tongue weight and that's a very capable TV/family hauler/daily driver.
Thanks!
Jeremiah
GrandpaKip wrote:
My kids just upgraded their TV. They were looking into a Tahoe or equivalent. The $50 to $60k was nuts in my opinion and the payload wasn't much better than their present truck.
Short story shorter, the bought a Nissan NV. Less than $35k before trade in. Plenty of payload and room for them, 3 kids, a dog and stuff. They say it rides nice and is maneuverable.
Just an idea.
My kids just upgraded their TV. They were looking into a Tahoe or equivalent. The $50 to $60k was nuts in my opinion and the payload wasn't much better than their present truck.
Short story shorter, the bought a Nissan NV. Less than $35k before trade in. Plenty of payload and room for them, 3 kids, a dog and stuff. They say it rides nice and is maneuverable.
Just an idea.
Is it available in 4x4? If only rwd that would be a no go. I've seen one in person and thought it was not the most attractive looking vehicle, but that's just me
falconbrother wrote:
I see people towing in and out of the campgrounds with Tahoes all the time. Some have them set up right and some don't. What I observe is the grill looking up into the sky. The folks who use the weight distributing hitch don't seem to have any issues pulling trailers with Tahoes, even the older ones. I would look for a trailer well under 6,000 pounds. There are plenty of choices with a slide out, etc. Don't let the dealer sell you an 8000 pound trailer to be pulled with a Tahoe. The wheel base is a bit short to be pulling a trailer nearing the posted weight rating. Otherwise, that Tahoe can do the trick. The 5.3 is plenty enough unless you're in a big hurry.
I see people towing in and out of the campgrounds with Tahoes all the time. Some have them set up right and some don't. What I observe is the grill looking up into the sky. The folks who use the weight distributing hitch don't seem to have any issues pulling trailers with Tahoes, even the older ones. I would look for a trailer well under 6,000 pounds. There are plenty of choices with a slide out, etc. Don't let the dealer sell you an 8000 pound trailer to be pulled with a Tahoe. The wheel base is a bit short to be pulling a trailer nearing the posted weight rating. Otherwise, that Tahoe can do the trick. The 5.3 is plenty enough unless you're in a big hurry.
Did you bother to read the OP's original post and all those following before posting yourself?
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/rolleyes.gif "rolleyes")
shar3890 wrote:
We have a 2016 Passport 2400BH-dry weight of 4730 and length of 27'10" which of course is shorter and weighes about 350 lbs less than the model you are looking at. We absolutely love the trailer by the way. We tow with a Chevy Tahoe with absolutely no problems. We have been pulling RV's for almost 30 yrs. We have the whole trailer tow pkg on the car and use a Reese weight distribution system with sway control. I understand your desire to have the Tahoe over a truck-always felt the same. The trailer you like would certainly be the max I would want to pull with the Tahoe-maybe you would consider the next shorter model. Would hate to see you buy an RV too big for you to safely pull with Tahoe, then regret your purchase.
We have a 2016 Passport 2400BH-dry weight of 4730 and length of 27'10" which of course is shorter and weighes about 350 lbs less than the model you are looking at. We absolutely love the trailer by the way. We tow with a Chevy Tahoe with absolutely no problems. We have been pulling RV's for almost 30 yrs. We have the whole trailer tow pkg on the car and use a Reese weight distribution system with sway control. I understand your desire to have the Tahoe over a truck-always felt the same. The trailer you like would certainly be the max I would want to pull with the Tahoe-maybe you would consider the next shorter model. Would hate to see you buy an RV too big for you to safely pull with Tahoe, then regret your purchase.
This is what the OP stated in his first post they wanted to pull with a Tahoe and which is what started this entire debate about how suitable the Tahoe is as a TV.
"The TT we're looking at is the Forest River Wildcat Maxx lite T265BHX.
Here are the specs:
GVWR: 7828 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 828 lbs.
UVW: 6496 lbs.
CCC: 1332 lbs.
Exterior Length: 31' 8""
BIG difference between that trailer and yours which you tug with a Tahoe. Although it seems the OP accepts some of what has been offered and is now considering a somewhat shorter, lighter trailer it's pretty clear that regardless he's still insisting on a Tahoe instead of 1/2 ton truck with a longer wheelbase more appropriate for towing a travel trailer. Your points are well taken ... being in California perhaps he should consider the 2600BHWE "West" version of your trailer which is WAY shorter and lighter than what he was originally considering.
shar3890 wrote:
If you look back at another page, the OP stated he was now looking at a different RV (Passport) and asking for advice about that new RV he was considering. Being we own a very similar RV and tow with Tahoe was the reason I replied to post.
If you look back at another page, the OP stated he was now looking at a different RV (Passport) and asking for advice about that new RV he was considering. Being we own a very similar RV and tow with Tahoe was the reason I replied to post.
I don't have to "look back at another page" as I'm quite familiar with what the OP has posted as this discussion progressed.
If you would read what I just posted you'd note I did note the OP was now "looking at a different RV" ....What I actually said - "Although it seems the OP accepts some of what has been offered and is now considering a somewhat shorter, lighter trailer ..."
I also said your points were well taken and that perhaps the "West" version of your trailer may be an option for him, although I personally still disagree with towing any travel trailer of that length with such a short wheelbase vehicle, despite your reported success.
shar3890 wrote:
Thanks for your kind post troubledwaters. I hate this site when people like him think they're the only opinion that matters.
Thanks for your kind post troubledwaters. I hate this site when people like him think they're the only opinion that matters.
Perhaps if you'd actually read what's posted your opinion would matter ... or is that too much to hope for?
From one of my earlier posts ...
"I have no dog in this race, I'm only offering what I've learned over the years we've been RVing ourselves ... what you choose to do is entirely up to you."
Talk about those who can't understand the written word.