Towing a Travel Trailer RV with a 1/2 ton Pickup! Watch this!

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[@ECEV]

I pull my pop up trailer (gvwr-1500lbs) with a semi just to be on the safe side. I hope you approve.

[@bikeislife8405]

Honestly, you should really be concerned for your safety with that amount of trailer..

[@anthonyg6924]

I'm crying! 🤣🤣🤣

[@Thekoffrekup]

Lol

[@240606ktt]

😂😂😂😂

[@240606ktt]

😂😂😂😂

[@timothyjosifek5383]

I drove truck for over 40 years. The biggest reason for towing accidents is speed. Most of the rv accidents I saw on the highway were speed caused. The other cause is improper setup. I hauled a full size trailer with a v6 suv down I5, even through Shasta canyon, without any problem. Set it up properly and keep your speed down and you should have a nice trip.

[@brianhalliday2384]

Wow, I've towed my 30 foot (overall, bumper to tongue) travel trailer thousands of miles with my RAM 1500. Unloaded weight is 5,800 lbs., but I roll at about 6,500 lbs. With the Equilizer hitch, I have no sway and a comfortable ride. We've hauled this rig all over the country with no issues, good hitch and keep speeds under 65 mph and you will have a safe ride.

[@smrdmr1]

The tow police are nuts. Every trailer should be towed by a 3500 series dually.

[@htmpshow]

Hey Brian. Thanks for the comment. I’m about to move up from a roughly 3350lb dry 21 footer to something in the 6-6.5k dry 30-31ft range. Also drive a RAM 1500. I’ve got the air suspension and will definitely be using sway bars/WDH. Any tips you’d give me as I transition? Thinking I may want to get tow mirrors but aside from that…?

[@bloodyblade916]

@@smrdmr1 , LMAO best comment!

[@willstevens4981]

The equalizer is key here.

[@denisbeaulieu3004]

Thanks for the puce of mind. That’s exactly my setup - Ram 1500 5.7L with 3.92 rear end with air bags and using a WD hitch. I’m pulling a Keystone Passport ultra lite GVWR about 7000lbs. I am mindful of my payload as well so as not to overload the truck in any way. Suffice to say everyone is going to need a “comfort level” about their rig. Good video though

[@gabrielalequin5518]

Very good advice, and kudos to you for being honest about safety with potential customers and your viewers. I drive a 1/2 ton max tow rating of just over 8,000 lbs and made the novice mistake of getting a forest river vibe 268rks... 34.5 ft from ball to bumper and currently just shy of 7,500 lbs with my "long weekend" load. Needless to say I went from never having towed, to expert REAL quick, kind of had to towing through California mountains and such. Longest haul was from the Mojave up to Yosemite and it was extemely taxing.... currently in the market for a 3/4 ton truck to remedy the driver's fatigue and a lot of the other issues I've ran into just hauling that rig around. Solid content bud, thanks.

[@patgilman]

Wow, great video and wish we'd seen this before purchasing our new travel trailer. While under the specs, just barely, for everything, we were still very uncomfortable towing. We've since upgraded to a 3/4 ton truck and it is night and day, so much better!

[@CJ-dy8lb]

I think this information applies to older half ton pick ups. Nowadays the towing capacity of half tons are 12,000lb and up. Using trailer brakes and a weight distribution hitch with sway bars, I feel very comfortable driving a 30-35ft, 8000-9000lb gvw trailer with my 1500. I just make sure to keep the speed at 55 or under and drive defensively.

[@raylaux8295]

BS

[@RandomThings-iz9lj]

I agree my towing capacity on my 2023 is 11,000 pounds and has bells and whistles

[@GabrielSBarbaraS]

I believe newer trucks also have electronic controlled sway control also, ( my truck can pull 11 K and I don't have any issues with 8K even under emergency conditions.

[@whomeye2168]

Mine is rated at 11,560 towing capacity. The trailer I'm buying is 21 ft long and 3300 lbs dry weight. SUVs can pull it fine. I'm using a weight distribution hitch because it comes with it and I plan on buying something newer next year. Tryna figure out if filling the fresh water tank while towing will be an issue for sway being it is located in the back. The water/gear weight is approx 1200 on top of the dry weight. I'm still under the 6k lbs you recommended. It should be fine, right? I've never hauled a camper trailer before and not wanting to experience the death wobble, is all. Those accidents seem to just start on a dime. I wanna make sure my truck won't give way. I've been told by a few people it won't. I have to remember to use the trailer setting. I plan on practicing with it EARLY in the mornings. There's a helluh curvy road and it will take some finesse. But if I can drive that without a heart attack, I will be fine. 😂😂🤭

[@chathamj73]

21 F150 King Ranch, 3.5 14000 rated towing

[@scottjohnson943]

Good segment Big - and great commentary. I tow with my fully loaded Mac-Daddy'd out 2017 Ram 1500 Longhorn, the features on it and the max-tow configuration certainly make it more capable than lower-trim level stuff on the lot, nonetheless, I wouldn't pull anything bigger than I currently do with it. I've also made several upgrades that make towing it considerably easier. We have a 2013 Dutchman Kodiak Express 30-foot travel trailer, much like your "first floorplan" in one of your earlier shows -nearly identical actually. I've already had MoRhyde suspension and E-rated Carlisle tires put on and next week it gets a residential-grade 400 watt solar panel on the roof so I don't have to screw with recharging batteries anymore. In travel trailers, you seem to pay for "light", not "length". By that I mean, a 20 foot ultralight with high-quality materials could easily cost twice what the 30 foot with aluminum siding & wood frame would. I was a bit surprised at the "heft" on that Surveyor - our Kodiak is around 5,000 lbs (dry) and probably around 7,000 when we are on one of our 2 & 3 week road trips with it, or closer to 7500 if we are going to be boon docking it here in the west. That 7500 lbs climbing up & down western mountain passes can be felt pretty significantly behind the 11,500 lb max-tow Ram, but we are not trolling around at sea-level here either, so leaving about 30-40% of your capability is always needed here, regardless of truck class.. I've driven 12 mile 6% grades before while towing. The 400 ft-lb Hemi w/ the 8-speed and 3.92 gear ratio can easily accelerate the load going up the 6% 10 grade and I'll easily maintain 65-75 mph if the road conditions allow it, but I wouldn't dream of stacking another 2,000 lbs back there either. Note, the fuel economy does suffer...:). There are a lot of simple upgrades that make it very doable though: 1.) Obviously, stick to the lighter-weight trailers and expect to pay for it -though your fuel economy will be much better anyway. 2.) Don't use the stupid strap-on mirrors, buy a half-ton with factory tow mirrors. 3.) I installed a video screen that snaps to my rear view mirror on the truck, and ran the camera cable from the back bumper of the RV to a pickup tool box I welded to the hitch area of the RV (for batteries, tools, and camera equipment), then it terminates to a wireless transmitter at the hitch (which is then received by the screen in the cab), the screen shows everything behind the trailer like I'm looking at my rear view mirror out of habit. 4.) Don't use those crappy chain-lift WDS hitches, use the higher-quality EZ-Lift or similar "steel bar" lifting ones. I switched and the difference is enormous, it just makes a lot of noise when making sharp turns, combined with the Longhorn 4-wheel air suspension, smooth.. 5.) Don't forget your truck tires, those Goodyear Wranglers they ship with ride nice, but they are not very good for towing. I use Michelin LTX2's with E-Rated 10-ply. Stiffer, for sure, but no trailer sway. Sloppy sidewalls on the tires will give you an inch of acceleration laterally that turns in to a foot at the back bumper of the trailer.

[@wendysmith-Florida]

I just learned that the axle ratio of my Ram 1500 makes a significant difference! It definitely made my shopping for a travel trailer a lot different… I had to go with a much lighter weight trailer.

[@mfgxl]

I am impressed. Telling the truth that might hurt sales. Very commendable.

[@emmahammond5088]

Wish the salesman would have said any of that before selling me my truly 31 foot camp trailer for my half ton gmc pickup.instead he told me it was perfect for my truck....it is wonderful 😢... should have watched this before I bought 😢😕😔...

[@bobcloughjr]

This KZbinr is not an RV salesman.

[@joyce7892]

What RV place is this?

[@vernalton]

@@joyce7892 p

[@frystephenw]

I agree totally. I tow a surveyor 226 that is 5100 lbs dry and about 6500 loaded with a Titan rated for 9000lbs and I would not want to tow anything bigger. It tows great but at 65 it turns into a barn door. Great video and sound advice. Thanks.

[@johnvillafranca6188]

Very informative. Things that i did not know nor had never considered. You have improved my safety awareness. Thank you.

[@austinlittle2139]

Dude great video and great honesty. Alot of people try to tow because it says they can but the key points on this video are very valid.

[@br23goose]

I wish more rv salesman would watch this video over and over again. I have talked to many who just don’t know any of this information and they really put people in danger all for a big sale. I’ve towed a TT that was 27ft over all 32 with an F150 eco long wheel base with airbags and E rated tires and it did great; but I now have a 3/4 ton Suburban and I noticed the difference right off. No movement of all. I hope more people would watch this video before buying a truck and trailer. You set a good standard for half-ton towing of TT. Thanks BTBRV

[@chadsteele1]

RV sales ppl are the worst. They talk a lot of yap without a lot of know how, just to sell a product that is a luxury item, not a need and they put ppl imo in peril.

[@theCURTWAYNE]

I stopped to look at a TT one time, and the salesman looked at the pickup I was driving, and asked, "What kind of vehicle would you be pulling this with, because that pickup will not be able to do it."

[@pgrant7688]

theCURTWAYNE I had the opposite experience. When I asked the salesman whether or not my vehicle at the time could tow the travel trailer, he said truck manufacturers are always fighting to top the other’s tow capacity. I was pushing 95% of the vehicle’s towing capacity.

[@kong3]

Yes they do if they have been in the business for any time at all. Let the buyer beware. Its the whole truck that counts, not just power/transmission. After 60 years rving even buyers that ask, just ending up wanting to argue their uninformed opinion too often. Just like financial life... do the numbers.

[@sonictech1000]

The sales profession is certainly filled with folks who know little about their products and will do anything for a buck. That said, a lot if the blame falls on the consumer. If a customer goes to two dealers wanting to buy an oversized trailer it's the dealer who says "sure, you'll be fine" who will get the sale over the one who tries to talk then into something they don't like as much. Iterate this over time and you get the situation we have today.

[@txmarcg]

Very good video. I drove 18 wheelers for 6 years. Still liked how informational you're video was. I'm interested in an RV for my 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500. You helped a lot.

[@aaronarmstrong406]

Thanks for those numbers. I will definitely keep them in mind when I am shopping for my first camper (SOON!!!!). I have a 2017 F150 3.5 EcoBoost max tow. The numbers on that thing are ridiculous, but it is still a light duty truck.

[@Demoguy87]

One thing I think you're missing here is that the yellow payload sticker applies more to stock OEM tires. More often than not the axle is rated for much higher than the OEM tires on a half ton truck. As soon as you upgrade your tires to a higher load range that yellow sticker becomes irrelevant. At this point the important sticker is total combined vehicle weight and rear axle weight limit which you would figure out at the scale. After going to the scale doing the math and upgrading my tire load range I am good for 2,200 lb when it was 1600 before

[@froglobster]

Good mention about the tires !

[@danna140]

Very educational thank you very much ! Looking to purchase one in the near future and now I know what to look for again thank you .

[@ShayneBilley]

Spot On!! We moved from a 6500# TT to a 8400# TT with our F150. There was a huge difference in control. Also of note, most of the bigger trailers have a much heaver tongue weight. When I took my F150 truck to a weigh scale and did the math, after my family of five were in the truck with the new 8400# TT we had aprox 50-100# left on the truck payload with an EMPTY box due to the extra tongue weight. Legally I was within the GCVW, however the GVW of the truck was probably over when I had a box full of camping supplies. Needless to say, I now pull with an F350 gasser. Night and day difference!!!

[@mjpender9443]

Hey, thank you so much for this video. It is the best information I have seen yet on how to judge what type of trailer is safe to pull behind a Ford F150. Thank you.

[@sum2automation]

Smart man with excellent advice... Thanks for your honesty, the RV industry just moved up a notch and most sales men don't even know it. Happy camping.

[@deepwater2652]

Pulling our 26 ft Lance with a Ford F-150 (tow package equipped) - took a Western tour with our rig (TX, NM, UT, AZ). Trailer was running at about 5250 lbs. Truck handled the trailer like a champ!

[@jetboy770371]

what kind of engine do you have in your F-150

[@deepwater2652]

@@jetboy770371 5.0 Liter - runs strong like tank!

[@sguishy89]

Thank you for explaining! I couldn't figure it out until now

[@Mike2500able]

I can honestly say you did a awesome job showing how you read trailer weights because so many dealerships are giving false info and just reading off the empty weights to get the sales. I also believe you are spot on with the length and opinion of what you feel is considered to be comfortable towing with half ton trucks and I also agree just because they say it doesn’t me you should especially for beginners.

[@barbaraness4507]

Thanks so much for explaining this in detail. We just bought a half ton (4x4). The dealer told us it could pull a trailer that was max weight for the truck. We only need a camper for two people, and had already decided to get one at least two thousand pounds less than the max weight, but this information will help us to pick out an appropriate one as well.

[@edwardjackson3952]

Thank you for the information that's exactly what I was looking for

[@paulrodrigues9603]

Exactly but it would have been great info to have in March 2018. Also addressed to my wife!!

[@curtisgmonkey1666]

Thank you! Very well presented and I learned a lot as a first time truck owner!

[@petekane2501]

Great info every future Trailer buyer should see. I recently purchased a used f250 gasser when my expedition with trailer tow package struggled to pull my new 32 ft 7000lb travel trailer. I feel 100 % better and more in control now when towing

[@nicolathonathan770]

Here is the rule of thumb when go to rv dealer: When the rv salesman says it’s a half ton towable, go get a 3/4 ton truck. When he says it’s a 3/4 ton is needed, go get a 1 ton diesel dually. When he says you need a diesel dually, go contact your local freightliner dealer. When he told you that you need a semi, then forgot about it, the thing he try to sell you is a manufactured home, not mean to be towed.

[@ConquerCollin]

I bought a bnsf freight train to be safe

[@petro2342]

@@ConquerCollin I heard turning around in those is a nightmare.

[@jamespeters3907]

Great explanation and advice! You are very right about rv towing much different than regular trailers. What every they say they weigh. I think calculate a couple thousand pounds on top of it. For wind resistance. I helped a friend tow a 30ft fifth wheel that he bought. The sticker says it weighs around 8,500 lbs. But it feels much heavier due to the amount of wind it catches.

[@trevorclapham5571]

My 1/2 ton could not tow that. The payload would be 1700lbs.

[@derekbuttery4776]

great info and explanation for your reasoning.

[@traganfour7168]

This guy is an honest salesman. God bless him.

[@benificentmillipedius634]

I agree with your figures. Looking at UVW, I tow a 3800# ultra lite 24' cabin on a 29' total-length frame. Loaded I run about 5000# and it works my 1500 Suburban 4x4 tow package on the steep hills. On a fully loaded trip, I also have 1500# inside the Suburban. I don't use a stabilizer-load-leveler on it, no sway at all. In a crosswind I pull at about 50 - 55mph and optimal conditions 65mph. The trailer is only 8 1/2' tall from the ground so lower wind resistance. I go by UVW because that is the innate weight of the trailer.

[@beauxwalwer4894]

Benificent Millipedius I have a 01 Yukon 5.3 and am looking at a 98 coachmen roughly 4600 ibs I feel I should be alright do you have any input with you experiences.?

[@slowspecv69]

Beaux walwer I hope you’ve gotten a answer by now, but if not u should be fine.

[@SoCal_rnr]

Good to know I've been following a good rule of thumb without every having been told. Got a silverado 1/2 ton with max tow package, and gravitated to a 20ft micro mini that was less than ever 60% max tow loaded up. Ticked all my boxes for what I needed and I'm not a big luxury trailer kinda guy, just needed something good enough for the little missus and our dog to hangout in while I dragged them out to the middle of nowhere lol

[@hhiippiittyy]

You came back with the dog though, right?

[@hurricane8634]

Dude no one cares. Clearly it can tow a 20ft no problem so why even say anything.

[@shawn7704]

@@hurricane8634 yet you cared enough to type that out ... just saying

[@mattsmith7503]

Great video! My little travel trailer is 4,200-lbs fully loaded and well within the theoretical capacity of my Nissan Frontier. Living in the Northern Rockies and going up mountain passes at 50 mph with the engine/transmission screaming, taught me that the towing capacity and wise towing weight are two different things. I've since upgraded to 1/2 pickup and towing is no longer a stressful venture. I'd hazard to guess that about 2/3 of the manufacturer's towing capacity is about the safe capacity, especially if you aren't a flatlander.

[@robertcolpitts4534]

About 85% of the manufacturer's towing is the most you should realistically be towing. So for a 9200 lb tow rating, 85% gives you 7820 lbs maximum trailer GVWR. Gives you breathing room on the trailer you can tow. Something to consider.

[@williamsmith1453]

Thank you big time. Newby to RVs. Looking at a f150 with About 4,500 lbs and 18 to 23ft. Rv. Seem like i am on the right path.

[@michaelmartin9335]

Truck and hitch set up is very important regardless of 1/2 T or 3/4 T. I have helper springs on back axel, extra heavy duty shocks, and a 10k load leveler and sway system. This is very important for me.

[@bigrobntexas1720]

My trailer is only 6200 gvw, but 1 ton single wheel leaves nothing to doubt 👉 safty 1st & comfort w/power to spare 👍

[@timesup6386]

Good show Big Truck Big RV. Max tow is as individual as the tow vehicle. Payload capacity and GVWR are the rule. Experts are not educated if they tow over payloads.

[@Riverrockphotos]

Times Up write my truck is ready for 1650 pounds of payload. By the time you put a 10,000 pound trailer and me and the wife in there I’ve only got 160 pounds left the payload.

[@HillbillyMusings]

Nice to see an rv salesperson be honest about this. When I first got into rvs I had a salesperson sell me too much trailer. Have had numerous occasions since with the same thing. Thanks for being honest sir!

[@philisledbetter4412]

Thank you very much. I totally appreciate your video. I have a Dodge Ram 1500 and was looking at a Coachman Freedom Express. I don’t think I could tow that now. You saved me a trip out of town to check on one I wanted.

[@NGLCOCONUTS]

Good examples of what can be towed with a 1/2 ton. I’ve seen every single one of those type trailers being towed with a 1/2 ton. It always surprises me especially on the bigger ones with truck beds full of bikes,coolers,kayaks. Firewood, etc. I don’t know how anyone can feel comfortable putting their family of 4-5 down the road with all of that weight.

[@gregmislick1117]

My wife is never happy when I tell her what has to stay home....and I even weigh the dog! ....but she eventually agrees when I tell her it stays or....we could go buy a new truck...whatever it is stays home...so far.

[@ElimitechPest]

Do you must have seen me driving down the road with my truck full of bikes and Ice Coolers and my 35 foot trailer with my half-ton F-150. You're so right the guy at the RV shop told me I would be fine. I wish I would have done my research before I spent all this money

[@NGLCOCONUTS]

Bringing stuff is still a problem for me. My wife brings EVERYTHING with and yes we can tow it but geez do we really need 48 bottles of water and 4 bottles of shampoo for a weekend.

[@lymerbean88]

Pack like you have to carry it on your own back!

[@johndevita4236]

No

[@theCURTWAYNE]

I've had conversations with people about the tow capacity of a vehicle, and the weight of trailers, many times. A lot of them think that just because a vehicle has a big engine, it should be able to pull anything, and act surprised when it struggles to pull what they have. I start asking questions about tow capacity, and weight of trailer, and they say they don't know.

[@Gbobzin]

As a long time 1/2 ton trailer tower, I'd say spot on! I comfortably tow a 1995 Lance with my 2015 Silverado LT.

[@jaybilawchuk2225]

Very true statement. Only 45 years old, but have driven every big truck there is, from grain trucks to full semi trucks with trailers. Pulling my 30 foot travel trailer coming in at 7500 pounds on a windy day is a tretourous task even for me. I couldn’t imagine a first time driver pulling one of these trailers. It is very overwhelming if you don’t have experience. Good video!!

[@chrism2042]

I live at NC coast where we get a lot of vacationers from Spring to Fall. It is very common to see large campers pulled with mid-size trucks and SUV's, not uncommon at all to see a Jeep Cherokee towing a 25'+ camper with hitch almost dragging asphalt. Many of the sights with camper towing around here is dangerous.

[@Valor_73737]

THAT is scary!

[@davidblow7255]

I love this channelI really appreciate the honest appraisal of this ongoing topic. It never seems to get old. I tow with 2016 Nissan Titan with the Cummings 5.2 Turbo Diesel. It is a really solid and nice truck. Behind it is a Keystone Hideout 28 RKS. At 7200 pounds it is all I care to handle. It’s is okay but I know it is back there fore sure. We are constantly being told that we can move to a Firth wheel or a larger trailer with no issue. In my opinion part of RV ing is being comfortable getting from place to place. With that in mind it just feels good to keep things as in until I can afford to go the 3/4 ton route.

[@jibbygonewrong2458]

Ty! I'm a mom who's going to force my 3 kids to spend family time in a camper soon (mean mom) and safety is first. I got mixed responses on towing with our SUV so I bought a truck. It's so important to understand there are still limitations. This helped me understand the safety requirements for our new RAM. Ty :)

[@GymJockey67]

Thanks. I really wanted to know what I should be looking at for my F-150. Nothing too big to start out with.

[@edtetzlaff8058]

It took him six minutes to say "unless you feel comfortable." Otherwise he wants you to get a dually for anything over 19ft and 8000 pounds. Moving on to someone who knows what they're talking about.

[@michaelpettebone4015]

Love this video. We were towing a 31 foot (34 feet overall) Whitehawk travel trailer (8200 lbs max) with a 2011 F150 Crew Cab 5.0. Most of the time, it was okay, until the wind kicked up or we were on the interstate with Big Rigs passing. I added a second sway control bar which helped but we still got pushed around in any crosswind over 15 mph. Then, I measured the tongue weight. The manufacturer had the tongue weight at 680 lbs (of course, that's empty). I measured 1050 lbs loaded! That gave me less than 400 lbs payload capacity in the truck (payload was 1404 lbs). I really should have had at least an F250. I ended up buying an F450 because we plan on getting a large fifth wheel in the future. Wow, what a difference that made! Even in high winds, 25-30 mph sustained and higher gusts, I can't even feel the trailer. Moral of the story is, even though the weight might be under what the vehicle is rated for, the size and shape of the trailer makes a big difference as BTBRV pointed out in this video.

[@mikeeasley2108]

I had an F150 and got pushed around when big rigs passed using the Blue Ox sway system. I changed to a Pro Pride trailer hitch; the first trip I took with the Pro Pride hitch, I had to slow down because I had eliminated all sway compared to the Blue Ox "Sway hitch". Keeping the speed down was a great problem to have.

[@jackrehm4482]

I appreciate you explaining towing capacity for travel trailers and 5th wheels. I live in Cheyenne, Wyoming and the wind is strong and dangerous, ranging from 10 to 40 mph. I tow a 2016 momentum by grand design and most of the time I'm unable to tow over 60 to 63 mph, due to the wind. It would be interesting to watch , either an RV manufacture or yourself, talk about towing in strong winds.

[@killer2600]

Don't tow in strong winds. Strong winds knock over semi's that weigh more than typical RV rigs.

[@mhaskins3769]

Killer2600 not true, they knock over empty trucks or half loaded trucks. 80,000 lb trucks don’t blow over.

[@danielpohl29]

@@mhaskins3769 which is basically a camper. The wind will blow over a fully loaded camper.

[@nohowtoplz1]

Thank you for the knowledge.

[@jgirtman012]

Good video. I've had my class A CDL for almost 10 years now. 8 of those is pulling doubles and triples for a well known freight company. I would say that more than 50% of people I see on the road have no business in towing a uhaul trailer, let alone an RV. I've always thought that if us commercial drivers are summoned to D.O.T regulations, why not some of these rigs on the road. Why, because people would go crazy. The more I think about it, it should be required to take classes or tests on towing as you would have to in order to get any sort of license or endorsement. Towing is the only thing you don't have to be certified to do and I wouldn't be opposed to it being required. Lately, I've seen more and more trucks, SUV's, and even some cars flipped over from not knowing what the heck they are doing. Watching videos will only teach you very little. Knowing how to understand weight distribution, downgrades, break checks and so on will. Thanks for putting the word out there that just because you can, doesn't mean you should.

[@tednielsen5271]

Amen man I've seen the same things in my 14 years as a cdl a driver. They should be required to take atleast 200 hours of class room and on road training total to get a travel trailer endorsement allowing them to drive these large sails.

[@candycain9901]

Sir i admire your knowledge so i have a question i have a toyota tacoma TRD sport my weight rating is 6,500 pounds . Do you think id be safe at purchasing a camper with a dry weight of around 4200 pounds . Thank you hope to hear back !

[@olebiker]

Absolutely spot on. Ford's numbers said my F150 would tow my new Jayco 28BHS. It took one white knuckle trip to convince me otherwise. I am buying an F250 diesel tomorrow.

[@jerryhowell19]

Thats because you are obviously inexperienced. There's also hensley arrow hitches. They take care of sway and eliminate it.

[@derekbionelli1049]

Get a ram. Had a Ford, the Rams are super heros vs the Ford with Towing.

[@mussskyrat3096]

Derek Bionelli Ford has the highest towing rating my mom pulled a 30 foot tow hauler full of water threw the mountains with the 2.7l ecoboost which is rated for 9,000lbs the 3.5l Ecoboost is ratead for 13,000lbs highest in its class and no she doesn’t have the tow package she just put it in tow haul and went on her way oh yeah and it’s her first time towing anything in probably 10+years

[@ronjeremyjnr]

@@mussskyrat3096 I have the 3.5 EcoBoost and it pulls my 29ft fine never been an issue, had an older F350 diesel and the EcoBoost does not feel any less powerful then the diesel.

[@paulob5153]

I have a jeep Cherokee trailhawk rated at 4500 what would you suggest I would like a nice trailer looking at the Rpod 189

[@ricksprague4096]

Great video, and very good advice. Happy to see so many comments about payload which is the biggest drawback in towing with a half ton truck. Most of the newer half ton trucks have payload ratings of 1300 to 1600lbs. By the time you hitch up the trailer with lots of tongue weight, throw in a generator, some firewood, couple of dogs along with wife and kids, most of us half ton owners are way over payload rating. As a half ton owner and 5 month a year rver, I’m constantly fighting payload. It’s a real issue that every trailer purchaser should look closely at.

[@glenyukon9923]

exactly..my f150 payload is only 1300 lbs..me, wife and a hitch dont leave much for tongue weight or cargo.

[@x86brandon263]

What package? You can get them set up for 2,800 lbs. I have a 2018. I have 1,200 lbs of tongue weight on a equalizer, generators, firewood and gas. Truck dropped about a inch. Perfectly level.

[@glenyukon9923]

2013 f150 Screw with the FX4 package. pretty small payload compared to alot i have seen..trim level goes up and payload goes down..lol.

[@joecurry7249]

@@glenyukon9923 Get weight distributuion hitch. Then you are adding 1/3 to 1/2 of your hitch weight to your rear axle. Lots of payload for carrying a TT on any half ton that way.

[@joecurry7249]

@@x86brandon263 How can you be perfectly level if the back dropped a full inch?

[@tonyn.4663]

Thank you for some helpful tip and advice. Very informative from one of your subscribers

[@arthurtaylor4568]

Wow this is a great video and I'm a 25 year veteran semi tractor driver considering getting a travel trailer for my 2020 Tundra and this video will definitely help me choose the best trailer when I decide, thank's alot

[@wfd805]

Well, you must also look at the tow vehicle. We took a lot of time setting ours up to tow our travel trailer (almost 8000 pounds and 30ft long), with our 2015 Silverado half ton 4x4. We've had it all over the country and have learned a lot along the way. The only thing I would change about our setup is, a bit deeper gear.

[@alexgarza1406]

I have the same truck and looking to buy a 32 footer only thing big enough with enough storage for my wife and new born daughter and myself and all the newborn baby things just worried about how the towing will go I’ll be working out of town a lot

[@alexgarza1406]

Do you have any tips or things you recommend Me getting upgraded just had the transmission rebuilt and added a few upgrades with a shift kit

[@wfd805]

@@alexgarza1406 I put air bags on the rear axle. That was all I did. I used the universal kit from Air Ride. Theu are 5,000 pound bags. I ran them at about 50 to 60 pounds of air pressure. They worked great! I plumbed them separately, incase one failed, it wouldn't drop everything on the rear axle at once. We've had no issues at all.

[@Gorlo1]

@@alexgarza1406 distribution hitch and a sway stopper or 2 (60$ each) is the best! its change the whole ride once you find the right setting for them!

[@sethwagner9780]

I really appreciate your approach to suggesting the right size truck to the trailer size. I really believe this is something often over looked because of the new trucks manufacturer tow specs. Thank you for continuing to recommend the right truck for the size trailer you have!

[@andrusdad]

Great video thank you, we are just starting our research to go on the road full time and we have a 1/2 ton F150. We know to stay under what we can haul.

[@bella68201]

I just got ourselves a 36 foot long travel trailer and I pulled it with my 2013 f150 eco boost

[@bella68201]

By the way the travel trailer gvwr is 11090 pounds. F150 is rated for towing 13000 pounds with the towing package

[@packiejoegilheany1171]

Thanks for giving us viewers such important info. It’s appreciated.

[@djchapman4659]

Just towed my 34 foot trailer with my tundra 700 miles with no issues at all, and have been towing fine all year as well. You just go a reasonable speed for the weather conditions.

[@upperechelon3456]

@@robertwood5831 Yep...totally agree with you on that.

[@sum2automation]

Yup, it's the Tundra again and I love my setup. But i still believes his advice is correct. Especially for the north western region, on them stormy day's.

[@Sig721Tau]

Devin Chapman Just because your truck can make the tires on your trailer move, doesn't mean it should be used tow the trailer. What are you gonna do when your travel trailer has a tire blow out or there's multiple car wrecks on the highway?

[@EvanT1995]

Yep I agree. Done that too. Also towed a 12,000lb skid steer and trailer all over for work with my Chevy 1500. No issues. Just have to use common sense

[@tamishaw9826]

Thank you so much. Just starting to look at travel trailers, very informative video. Much appreciated.

[@timzbel6389]

As a newbie to campers, your video was very helpful. Quite different than hauling a 30ft horse trailer.

[@MotoBeemer]

Love this channel, thanks for the info. I have a 24 ft (interior) Jayco Jayflight (5300 or so dry), towed by a (gasp) Tundra but wait, it gets better. The Tundra has a 6 inch lift and 35's, steel bumpers which also add weight. I'd get a 2500 or even 3500 but pricing is absolutely absurd right now and the Tundra has long been paid off. With the Equalizer hitch, almost no squat and the truck pulls the trailer just fine at speeds of 70mph or less even up here at high elevations in Colorado. It's what I got so it's what I'm going with...not optimal but it works.

[@dixiedodge4315]

Very good video. Wish more people realized this.

[@gibbonsss8]

I'm glad you made this video. I've been looking at the cougar 34tsb. And planned on using my 14 1500 Silverado to pull it. Now I may reconsider.

[@paulrodrigues9603]

My friend has that same trailer in NY. He upgraded to the 2500 just from the ride home experience in his 1500.

[@Michael-xz4kt]

I am looking at buying both in next month or two.Thanks for the info pulling is one problem getting to stop is another problem.

[@williampellegrino473]

I've rooted with several 1/2 tons and 2 different 3/4 ton diesels. Very sound advice on this video. I live Colorado and tow to KS and Texas often. Great with no wind but you definitely know you have a trailer when the wind is blowing north or south and pulling east or west.

[@enjoylife7030]

This is always an interesting topic. I have watched Keep your Daydream tow a travel trailer all over the USA , once with a F150 and now a bigger travel trailer with an F250. They have some real world towing perspective in both categories and have really put on some solid testing miles with both setups. Check it out.

[@travelingfool9096]

and they (KYD) have a very detailed video on payload, towing .... its quite informative. He was overloaded with that 150, for sure.

[@surfandstreamfisher5749]

Good information! RV salesman should watch and learn!!

[@seanskeen3239]

Great video! I just purchased a 6800lb , 25’ 11” exterior length trailer that I was hoping to pull with my V8 Tundra that is rated 7000lbs. While she made it over a windy pass to the storage yard I was hoping that it would be more stable and have greater power. I’m going to explore ways to tweak the suspension however, my inner realist tells me that If I have plans for long safe trips in the future, then I’m looking to upgrade to 3/4 ton.

[@bettyechols6405]

I've watched 100s of RV videos on every subject, and this was something I have not seen. Very good presentation....narrator very credible, knowledgeable, confident, great talker.... As a senior female, I would never go for a TT....only a van or C

[@luhkian4524]

Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. There are other people on the road and I would feel really bad if my actions caused somebody to be injured or worse. Thank you for your videos.

[@kylesprengeler5965]

You read my mind, this video hit it on the head! Appreciate the eductation to others

[@LillyKC23]

Too bad the sales people often aren't honest about this issue. Just about any vehicle will be okay with them if it means a sale. Glad to have your channel!

[@eanschlotzhauer8059]

I think you have a good point. They shouldn't be able to sell you something the vehicle you show up with can't pull safety down the highway.

[@perry9492]

Good article. I agree with everything you said.

[@bassproable]

Absolutely, correct JD. Most are over cargo capacity and dont even know it.

[@randystrom2163]

You are my go to answer guy! The best out there.

[@joshwitham8427]

My travel trailer is 33ft long and 10,500 loaded. Pulled with a 3/4 ton comfortably until heavy wind, stepped up to a dually and never been happier

[@hurricane8634]

You just are a little guy with a big ego. I use my f150 ecoboost for my 36ft.

[@joshwitham8427]

@@hurricane8634 congrats for you but you neglected to mention the weight of yours and mine is a fk which has more pin weight. But you pull what you feel comfortable with and I'll pull what I'm comfortable with

[@hurricane8634]

@@joshwitham8427 9600

[@hurricane8634]

@@joshwitham8427 no reason to have a dually if your not towing atleast 25k on the daily

[@joshwitham8427]

Well you know what they about opinions, plus i haul other stuff as well and never over work my truck. Enjoy your opinion and I'll enjoy mine, have a blessed day

[@jimt.9439]

This video had been my go to and I have watched it several times. I have a 2013 F150 Lariat 3.5L supercrew with the HD tow package. It has a max tow rating of 9,100 lbs and GCWR of 15,100 lbs. In looking for a trailer I created a spreadsheet to input all the related weight numbers. One thing I decided was to absolutely not exceed 80% of my truck's towing capacity. I also limited the length of the trailer to buy. In the end, we ended up a bit on the heavier side than I considered ideal. We bought a Grand Design Imagine 2150RB with a GVWR of 6695, total length about 26 feet. At that weight, the trailer comes in at 73.5% of my truck's tow capacity. If I tow with my water tank empty, I'm at about 68%. One aspect of the Imagine is its height. From ground to top it's a bit over 10 feet making for some extra wind resistance. All said and done, I can definitely feel the trailer behind me. One thing I discovered soon after purchase is the fact I'm really limited what I can load into my truck as the hitch weight is close to 620 lbs. Im running through my mind the feasibility of upgrading to a 3/4 ton if I can do so without breaking the bank.

[@chiefsnarlsnortz1610]

Thanks!

[@briandonald]

Thanks for this video. I also find that tongue weight is an important factor too. You might max out payload capacity way before you’re even close to maxing out towing capacity.

[@Jasha333]

Completely agree with everything you said

[@kylewilcox8928]

Payload is also a major limiting factor on a lot of the new 4 door 1/2 tons.

[@slaytanic921]

2019 Silverado lt 5.3 , my payload is 1982. From my understanding GM has increased payloads recently.

[@bearchris121]

I have a StarCraft 26SBS that I pull with a 3.9L Dodge Dakota and I have had no problems

[@DargoDog]

Great video. I have a 2018 F150 with the max-tow package, my truck's tow rating is 13k. I got that much capacity so I could tow safely up to 8K, and an overall length of up to 26ft.

[@melrichie1]

@ril850 We're similar on the F150, and tow rating as yours. What did you end up getting/towing? weight & length?

[@HartponderJr]

That’s why I went Airstream for aerodynamics 25.11’, with a F150 3.5 max tow 11,200, 10 speed with 2300 of payload...

[@Sig721Tau]

I agree. Most people forget about the aerodynamics, or there lack of, on their travel trailer.

[@crxmad2killu]

My next truck is gonna be a 3/4 ton but for now my f150 does fine for the short distance camping trips we do

[@patricksturgis774]

What size camper do you have?

[@josephfarrah579]

Great video! Many don't understand that just because you're under the tow rating doesnt mean it will be SAFE! Towing is about confidence and safety, especially for beginners. Be safe out there everyone!

[@robertcolpitts4534]

Great video! We have a trailer that is 25 feet in length (box) and 28 feet total) that we towed, first with a Chevy Tahoe, then with a 1500 Silverado. Empty but with battery and full LP gas bottles, it scaled at 4405 lbs. Loaded for camping, it scaled at about 6200 lbs (that was with a full fresh water tank). GVWR is 7658 lbs, so plenty of room. The Tahoe handled it (barely) but the truck pulled it very easily. Sway was a serious issue though. After nearly getting blown off a highway in NE New Mexico (yes, I did have a friction sway bar properly set and Stabilitrack engaged - which saved our bacon), I cured almost all of it by getting rid of the P-Metric Radial street tires and putting some good 10-ply LT tires on. The difference in stability and ease of towing was like night and day!! It was breathtaking. My wife started talking about a bigger trailer 😳🙄 so I sold the 1500 1/2 ton and bought a 2500 HD. This is a much better combo and we now have the flexibility to get something longer for retirement. It has been my experience that while a half ton truck can tow a longer trailer, you will run out of payload long before you run out of tow capacity (which, as a rule of thumb, should actually be 85% of the posted tow rating from the manufacturer). Changing out to LT tires is a real game changer and having the rear tires inflated to maximize (or near maximum) improves the handling and ride tremendously while towing.

[@froglobster]

Wow another mention here about tires- thanks

[@Jeffshanklin]

Here are some numbers to put behind the experience discussed in this video. Take you trucks GVWR less its curb weight to determine its payload. You can get your actual curb weight from a CAT weigh station for $12. That payload is then the amount weight you have for people, stuff in cab, and hitch weight. This is where I would recommend you apply 15-30% buffer. The hitch weight for a travel trailer is typically 10%-15% of the UVW of the trailer, thus a 7,000lbs trailer may have a hitch weight of 700lbs. So here's this in practice... truck with GVWR of 7,200lbs less curb weight of 5,700lbs leaves 1,270lbs for payload. Less a family in the cab, say 600lbs that leaves 670 payload. Any stuff in the cab or bed reduces that further. At this point you could tow a trailer with a hitch weight less than 670 (or less 15-30% buffer). This number is important as it is weight put on your tires and axles of you truck. Another number to look at is the Towing Capacity of your truck, these can vary by model, engine, etc. Quad cabs are generally 1,000 lower than double or single cabs. This number should be greater than the GVWR of you trailer. The reason is you do not overload your Total Combined Weight of your truck and trailer. This is another area you might want to add a buffer. Also secure your load to avoid shifting. Weight asside, I would always recommend equalizing hitches and stabilizers when towing. This will help distribute the hitch weight between your front and rear axles, level your truck when towing, and give better steering control. The stabilizers are great for moderating the trailer sway, a much needed safety item. Lastly you may need air bags or different leaf springs in the back end of your truck.

[@bjack8645]

"Lastly you may need air bags or different leaf springs in the back end of your truck" will help with stability but will NOT change your GVWR of tow vehicle.

[@josepech1111]

You're correct with what you said, I have a 2013 Toyota Tundra crew cab when we bought our Coleman 263bhe it was much taller and longer than our old KZ 210 spree. We drove to the Grand Canyon from Southern California and I noticed the winds made a difference, a lot of caution.

[@jav9888]

This should be told to you at every RV centre, what kind of truck do your drive, should be their first question. I'm buying a V8 F150, and looking at around 5500 lbs, 24/25' now thanks to this vid Great Video ! Thanks.

[@jaycelliott2]

I have a half-ton PU towing a new TT at just under 6000, 11.5' tall with one slide. I have a high-end sway hitch, I beefed up the suspension and shocks and now it rides and tows like a champ. Completely happy and feel safe with this combo. I wouldn't know how to feel safe towing something like a 10K lb trailer with it though. I know it can, but on longhaul roads, forget it.

[@JoseMedina-fu5yc]

cool. this is good training as I'm researching to go in to the rv World

[@d.pollard5962]

Don't do rv world. Do your homework and compare several local shops.

[@SchafferTwins]

This us a great video and well put together. Thank you!

[@tinoarreguin8850]

Thanks for the info, it really helps.

[@philmcintosh2426]

Good advice. More is always better than less. Our 1/2 ton is rated to tow 12k but our rv is only 6,250 empty (GVWR is 7,600). I like having weight to spare once she’s loaded.

[@raycalandra1887]

Great advice. Have a 2010 Expedition, which has a 9000lb tow capacity. We have been RVing for over 30 years. When we updated last year to a brand-new Travel Trailer, I set my sights on one that would be under 28', and under 6500lb. This is not an activity where you want to press your luck!

[@killer2600]

Is an Expedition 3/4-ton? I think in his video he said he wouldn't tow anything heavier than 6,000 lbs with a 1/2-ton.

[@richardduncan709]

Thanks for another great video. Can you please do one for 3/4 ton trucks please.

[@jakeschisler7525]

I totally agree with what you said. In fact I followed a guy this morning pulling a travel trailer with a 1/2 truck and I believe it was scary for him. He never went faster than 40 mph. I had a half ton truck and bought a new 2500hd just for my equipment trailer to haul my tractor. Better to be safe than sorry!

[@alisonritchie4779]

Thank you for your honesty. I’ve had sales people tell us our Dodge Ram can pull some bigger rigs that I’ve said make me really uncomfortable.

[@FattyMcHotpants]

We were about to get a Heartland Mallard ( great trailer ) to tow behind our VW Atlas. Dealer recommended to get something lighter ( under 2200lbs ). We did, & plan to upgrade ( car & coach ) in a year or so. Most definitely from that same dealer.