Top 10 Questions About Converting a HDT into a RV Hauler! // Full Time RV Living

[@OliverMargetin]

Its not 80000 pound trler its 80000 gross weight truck trler and load!

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the correction Oliver....that's what I should have said. Nice catch! Really appreciate the comment.

[@dmsdms2707]

Was thinking the same thing

[@eightpoint]

lmao right I got that too. and his trail is about half the weight a semi would haul being most can haul 45 tho. adding 80 tho truck trailer and load all total

[@jeffconley819]

There are weight rating ...trust me. There front and rear axle weight ratings.

[@OliverMargetin]

@@SuiteTravels I drove OTR fro 27 yrs!

[@georgegeorgepht]

Because you run so light, I highly doubt you ever change brakes. This truck will be so under worked , it will last forever.

[@XploreAz]

Agent J who forgets their trailer? Hahaha!

[@masonlynch1793]

That is what’s nice about it.

[@willhopkins678]

I seriously doubt that truck will need tires and brakes anytime soon, especially if you got a Jake brake, the load is extremely light for that heavy hauler!

[@garyleibitzke4166]

It's not just the mileage and load on tires, it's age. We had a Renegade motorhome that was on a Class 8 Freightliner chassis (12.8L motor, 12sp auto-shift) with a GVWR of 32K and at 8 years had a tire explode because of age. Tires DO NOT last forever. BTW, we only had 35K miles on the tires.

[@jtull4099]

We are CONVINCED! This is a way cheaper option than a duelly, plus it potentially eliminates the need for a toy hauler completely (or maybe completely). This video has COMPLETELY allowed us to rethink our options and he is 100% correct about pricing and now we are definitely head pondering going in this direction. We cannot THANK you enough for this video! Our minds are blown. Wow, wow, wow.

[@SuiteTravels]

We're glad you found some good information! Good luck in your search and enjoy the process...maybe we'll see you on the road!

[@sbjennings99]

You should replace your tires every 5 years they will get old and tend to blow out. Especially your steer tires

[@mattv16031]

Steven Jennings consider covering the tires when parked for a few days. Keeping the sun off of them will greatly help extend the tire life.

[@djzman]

@@mattv16031 If you google it, tire manufacturers suggest every 6 years even if you have not put that much miles on the tires, this includes RV, Semi's Cars and Trucks and motor bikes, Ya ya im sure some people here will say they drove much more then 6 years on the tires, but as i said tire manufacturers recommend this. (you can google it)

[@魏森]

Tire rubber hardens over time. Some environmental aspects increase that affect. The soft pliable grip that comes from the factory degrades and it becomes easier to lose traction. 5 years is a safe time to stop being cheap and change the tires especially on a rig you basically live in. Let's consider the tires the foundation of the house. Will they still roll and hold air with plenty of tread depth? Most likely. But they will lose road grip much quicker in wet/icy/hard stop conditions. This pretty much applies to anything with rubber tread operated at over 25 mph on paved roads.

[@sbjennings99]

Thanks Y'alls for the comments

[@xBlade87x]

This dude used to stack bodies lol.

[@katynunnery2904]

At waco

[@bfe671]

That’s what I was thinking when he said that 😆

[@bonedust68]

@@katynunnery2904 If Janet was still around, boy you'd be in a tangle! lmao!

[@Invictum594]

Lmao. Glad to see so many people came to this conclusion. Two steps to tell someone is a spook / federal law enforcement 1) very cagey about their job. That’s all I’ll say about that. 2) When they retire their instinct is to go mobile, and to live as far away from human interaction as possible, haha

[@grimreaper7864]

Im a trucker ive seen you guys on the road

[@off-roadingridingtrails1212]

How would u know? You know how many people have things like this. One of my neighbors have something similar.

[@Ceedub3406]

@@off-roadingridingtrails1212 you always notice one of those Western Stars when you see one

[@kevinthomas8025]

After I gave up my CDL here in Texas they asked if I wanted to keep my Class A endorsement I said absolutely because we have a 5th wheel and want to get a larger one so I'd be safe. I drove a rig for 10yrs so I have no issues with a big rig lol. Great video guys and nice set up

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you Kevin. Sounds like you've got some miles under your belt. Hopefully you'll be able to share that knowledge with folks just starting out. Thanks for watching and hope you stick around!

[@lawrence7065]

Your GVWR should be around 52,000 lbs. Its on the door.

[@user-sh2mk8ew4c]

Makes total sense. For me it's a no brainer. Diesel P/U new 1 ton. $60k. min. My bro. just bought a 500k mile single axel (used fed ex truck) for $25,000.00 You can pull a house!!!! If a man wanted to you could pull a boat or another car behind the RV.

[@Redbikemaster]

Yeah the limit isn't what the truck *can* do, it's what the truck is *allowed* to do. Source: am a trucker and own my own rig.

[@iancraig5471]

$400 a year for service? Hell thats cheaper to maintain than a toyota camry!

[@dragbug100]

Until something mechanical goes out. But that may or may not ever happen.

[@kenhuffmanjr9919]

@@dragbug100 except that a lot of the HDT+RV crowd are buying trucks with a half million OTR miles already. I would be saving for a few big ticket items if it were me.

[@froglick28]

The load on the engine is so minimal compared to a one ton pickup

[@modine6968]

Having lived in Dallas my whole life I can say you are right about needing the air brake endorsement in Texas on your license to drive any vehicle with air brakes, commercial or not.

[@eleigey]

In my opinion no matter what vehicle it is if your driving a unit that has air breaks rather class A diesel pusher or a HDT you should need to have the endorsement. I have a class A CDL so it don’t bug me lol

[@ford1979truck]

That truck with your RV and smart car being towed will last forever . That western star will never see no stress like it would if you were working it as a commercial truck

[@johnfcomeau5011]

Hey love the rig! As for the tires, I'd plan on changing them worn out or not I don't run tires more than five years old. Seven max. You're asking for trouble with old dried out tires. You can find the date on the sidewall looks like molded into the tire. Four digits something like 4120... That's 41st week of 2020. Be safe!!

[@itsmeagain9119]

New Jersey requires air brake and non-commercial endorsements or rigs over 26,000 lbs.( class b for under 10,000 lbs trailer or class A for above 10,000 lbs. trailer )

[@robertbruce7937]

I had one. It's an automated manual transmission. I also used the commercial 5th wheel hitch to tow my DRV and it worked fine.

[@jamesglenn520]

You say you Had one. How long did you tow with the commercial hitch? And an idea of how many miles? What was your pin weight?

[@robertbruce7937]

@@jamesglenn520 I had it from 2016 to 2020. A western star 5700XE. My trailer was a 45 ft toyhauler DRV 450lx . The truck tow it great. Like the trailer was not there. When I sold the truck I had 27k miles on it. The trailer is permanently parked I think I'll sell it and go another direction for travrl.

[@jerseymopartruckandcampert9933]

As for GVW for a tractor and trailer it's a combined weight of the truck and trailer not just the weight of the trailer. I'm a truck driver. You should also drain the air tanks every day. So your air system doesn't freeze in cold weather.

[@killer2600]

Combined weight is GCW and GCWR. GVW and GVWR are individual to the truck and trailer. When the GCWR is not given/listed the GVWR rating may be combined to determine CDL requirement.

[@csway1]

Another great video. I'm a long haul truck driver and would like to do the hdt rv idea in a couple of years. I'm thinking of getting a European style cab over truck which would be a shorter wheelbase rig which would make it easier to maneuver in rv parks. Carls

[@SuiteTravels]

Hey Carl...we've got a friend that talks about that same style truck. It sounds like it would work very well! Good luck on your project - would love to see pictures when you get started!

[@jesserasso1042]

I'm building a 1975 pete with an small cam 400 and Eaton 13spd for my rv hauler you should check it out on my channel

[@МихайлоКвасняк-я3м]

Greetings from Ukraine! Good video. Happiness to you is the health of good and peace.

[@motorcyclemitzi8022]

im from texas, you would need a Class A non-commercial. A Class A license is for the operation of a combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or registered weight of 26,001 lbs. or more, if the GVWR or gross weight of the vehicles being towed is in excess of 10,000 lbs. a class "B" is Class B: Single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs. or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle 10,000 lbs. GVWR or less.

[@LivingLightRV]

Great video but you forgot to mention that it's freakin' COOL to drive around in a semi truck! Love you guys and thanks for sharing the details on your rig.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks guys! Yes....it is VERY COOL to drive around in a big truck 😂. We miss you guys already. Can't wait to get together again!

[@Gearjammer741]

Hey guys. Your spot on it is called an air brake endorsement. Here in Iowa you would need a non-commercial class A license and the ABE. To give you an idea on comparable weight your HDT, coach, and smart car are around 43k to 44k. My Western Star with an empty 53 ft. dry van trailer weighed in at 34,500#. So your pulling the equivalent of a semi with a 10k to 11k load which is really light. We routinely had 45k in the box. Thanks for an awesome video.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the info! It's really hard to address ALL the state's requirements so we just hit the basic points. Our hope is to educate more folks on our setup. Have a great weekend my friend!

[@listenkaren8222]

Colorado wouldn’t be too happy without a CDL. (26,001) I noticed the same thing with the light duty trucks. How much does the truck weigh?

[@georgeshotrodbarn2113]

In South Carolina you just have to take the air brake test and they put an E endorsement on your license.

[@robertmanley6102]

Your drive tires will last about 350,000 miles if you maintain proper air. Steer tires generally will last 100,00 to 120,000 before they start getting uneven wear. Often companies will switch steer tires to trailer after that. I generally run Bridgestone tires. Michelin tires are great too but really expensive. Brakes should last as long as your drive tires because you aren't pulling much weight. Fuel cost and tires are your biggest expense generally with a semi-truck. Change your oil at around 12-15000 miles and if you use synthetic oil then you can extend that to 25,000 or more. I am a 30 year truck driver and own a 2000 Kenworth W900 with a 14 liter 60 series 550hp Detroit. Happy trails! :)

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the advice Robert. So far we're happy with our results.

[@DGardhouse]

Liked your video. Up here in Canada, (London, Ontario) We need to have the air brake endorsement & depending on the weight of the truck we may need to have at least a class D license. (CDL)

[@nightfall22]

Okay, this is one of the coolest rv setups I’ve ever seen. I had to sub.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you!

[@markgosser9578]

I did as well, I have CDL license and love RVs

[@cubbysrig]

In Texas, for RV purposes, you have to have a non-commercial CDL Class B or Class A, with air brake endorsement. The non-commercial CDL in Texas is for non-commercial drivers, or drivers that are not paid to haul RV’s or equipment, which also falls under the leisure category. All others that drive for compensation are required to obtain a CDL.

[@kenhuffmanjr9919]

Its not a CDL if its a non-commercial license. CL = Commercial Driver's License. You meant to say that in Texas, you need a non-commercial Class A license.

[@cubbysrig]

Thank you for the correction.🙂

[@matthewlynch1622]

Thanks for answering all these questions. Your rig is awesome!

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Matthew....we really appreciate your kind words. Have a great weekend!

[@LivingOnCash]

The one thing you didn't tell us is how much this rig costs. How much more is it than say an F450 pickup or even that Sport Chassis? Also, have you ever had issues getting in and out of tight spaces? I guess you have to fuel up at truck stops and are going to be limited to larger RV parks. I'd sure hate to get that thing stuck driving it on anything other than paved roads.

[@SuiteTravels]

Hahaha...well, it's actually less expensive than a newer 1-ton. A lot depends on what type of bed you want on the back - if you need a bed at all. Most of the owners purchase an HDT that is traded in with 500k miles on it and then have the bed installed. Yes, it's big, and we do need to choose our stops accordingly, but we've never had an issue. As far as driving off the pavement, we spend most of our time boondocking on BLM land or National Forests.

[@rickstebbens5135]

Thank you this one about a lot of these questions but never asked and now I don't have to thank you

[@roberthurley335]

Its not automatic its a autoshift

[@carlwilliams8354]

Class 8 truck makes sense for towing. At 80-90k for a F350 or 3500 Chevy is a lot of money for something that is marginal for towing heavy weights and stopping. These trucks will do it for years with just simple maintenance.

[@NomadMonster]

You briefly mentioned 'super singles' on your truck. My Motorhome is an '04 Volvo VNL that I bought at auction in Texas, drove it home to Vancouver Island and rebuilt it from the ground up. After doing much research, the SS were on the list. When the Volvo was ready to I took it from the "Island" to Calgary paying close attention to fuel usage. Got the new SS tires and a set of Alcola wheels in Calgary at a great deal. Next trip was to Sacramento to pick up my trailer. The difference was a saving of just over 2L /100km and the ride was markedly different. Better handling and a more comfortable ride. I was surprised with impressive fuel savings documented over a long distance. And Bonus, better ride. I think you are lucky to have SS on your rig.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the info! We've heard similar stories about SS, but don't have any experience without them. Good to know.

[@40calpunisher]

Its an automated manual.

[@Dimage666]

All automatics are built that way now. Manual gearboxes are easier to build and can be made more heavyduty than the old automatics.

[@vendediesel]

Interesting. To actually go and get your CDL A for RV purposes and then double tow, I would have looked into a space craft trailer (made from an actual 53') you can park the smart car inside. You can still drive the motor coach with a class B which I personally would prefer since you can get a nice used prevost for about 200k (million mile chassis, 2.6m new) with 30 to 40k miles on it

[@SuiteTravels]

We really prefer a towable so if one of our rigs needs work we're not stuck without the other. Everyone has their preferences. Thanks for watching!

[@andyleo8418]

Nobody asked the most obviously question, how much did that thing cost? You might be saving on annual maintenance over a dually but you're paying more upfront I would think.

[@SuiteTravels]

You'd be surprised Andy. You can find a good late model used truck for less than a late model dually. That's what pushed us in this direction. We wore out 3 duallies and got tired of replacing them every few years.

[@lance3338]

"Headwind in Wyoming ". It does get windy here in parts of Wyoming. Very windy!

[@SuiteTravels]

😂 I think both Wyoming and eastern Montana use a piece of chain link for a windsock! It sure is beautiful country though....thanks for watching!

[@lance3338]

Haha. The wind here can be annoying!

[@paullogan2575]

Get off of 80 and go 30. much better lookin!

[@itsmeagain9119]

Why do you have a dual axle set-up? Wouldn't a single axle tractor be plenty of power?

[@SuiteTravels]

It would, but it's pretty expensive to remove an axle and program the computer for the delete. We can also sell the truck as an OTR truck if we ever decide to do that.

[@WellRoundedMBS]

were did you buy it and did it come all set up the way you have it

[@SuiteTravels]

Hey Joseph. We purchased the truck from a private individual who had it fabricated in Texas. It was set up just as we wanted - to haul a Smart car and tow a fifth wheel. We're very happy with it.

[@stanwright7575]

Very excited to have found your channel. I'm currently building a Volvo 780 as an RV hauler. I'm looking forward to seeing your double-tow setup.

[@SuiteTravels]

Hi Stan welcome to our community! So glad you found us. The 780 is a pretty cool truck and hopefully we can cross paths on the road!

[@PeeWeeHenson]

GOOD INFO. THANX. IF YOU'RE EVER AROUND LAKE TAHOE WOULD LOVE TO MEET UP FOR A BBQ

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks! We'll keep that in mind!

[@pugmalley]

Problem with brakes and tires is they do deteriorate over time. Eventually they will need replacing even when they don’t get worn down.

[@LawF250]

Yeah dry rotted and may just come apart while driving. Can be very dangerous in large trucks like that.

[@papasbus3598]

I would love to see the interior of your rig. I travel with my wife and 2 dogs.

[@SuiteTravels]

That's one of those videos we tell each other we need to put out...but we never seem to get the time to do it. It will come along soon I hope. Thanks for watching and travel safe!

[@jmaresh2801]

Has there ever been a place you wanted to go but couldn’t because of the length or clearance of the truck and rv?

[@SuiteTravels]

Hello Ann. Not really. We do a lot of pre-trip planning and use Google maps to help us decide where we can fit and where we can't. So for we haven't had any issues. Appreciate the comment and have a great week!

[@Elizabeth-rq1vi]

Suite Travels probably don’t have issues on some of those boondocking roads!

[@FindUsCamping]

Love the HDT trucks. I am just afraid of how hard it will be to get into sites in the campground. I know sometimes with my 45' camper and dually it gets tight. Beautiful setup though.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the kind words....we love our HDT. There are parks we don't even try to get into, but usually stay outside the area and commute with the Smart. Have a great week!

[@FindUsCamping]

@@SuiteTravels Do you guys just look for parks that can accommodate the big rigs? How are you finding these parks?

[@SuiteTravels]

@@FindUsCamping We're actually going to do a video on this task 🤔...but short answer is we look over a park we'd like to visit, look at the campground map then look on Google maps to get a road side and overhead view. Then we call the park directly to tell them what we are towing to see if there are any issues.

[@FindUsCamping]

@@SuiteTravels ok thanks will be watching for that video. I am just afraid to upgrade just because I think will limit where we can go a lot. We have been in probably close to 11 different parks in the last 3 months and I know of probably 2 we would fit with the HDT

[@NewHorizons2020]

Really good questions and answers. We get about 8 gallons per mile. We have a Class A 40ft Diesel pulling a 18ft flat bed trailer hauling our truck

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you Susan....but I think you meant to say 8 miles per GALLON 🤔 . Hope all is well and you're having a good time.

[@industrialexitstrategist2022]

Thank you so much for videos!! Ever since I saw your videos I went to heavy truck dealers to look at rigs!

[@SuiteTravels]

So glad you enjoy them!

[@johnbloxham9028]

The smart car, is that all electric? How many miles can you go with it? I looked up a smart car online and they only go 60 miles - not good for me.

[@SuiteTravels]

Our smart car is a 2017 model and gas powered. This was the last year Mercedes imported the gas version.

[@iflipsites1632]

Can I ask why you guys have not gone mid single? I worried about modifying the frame honestly and valued your restraint. Is more maintenance worth the added safety of manufacturer build/brakes, etc?

[@SuiteTravels]

We stayed tandem because when the truck is singled the drive shaft needs to be replaced and the truck's computer needs to be re-programmed to accept the single....both are rather expensive. Also, in our opinion, if we stay tandem we could remove the bed, have a commercial hitch plate installed and sell as a OTR truck if necessary. Most is just personal preference.

[@JJKHaywood]

Nice Western Star. Detroit Diesel is a good Choice and Western Star are good looking trucks.

[@dreusch22]

Great video, kinda funny I’ve seen you guys on the road a couple times.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks dreusch! Wave next time you see us...

[@alnelson1238]

Have you ever driven from the lower 48s to Alaska with your setup?

[@SuiteTravels]

Not with this rig Al....YET! We've made that trip a number of times and plan to make it again with this setup.

[@brianmiller8806]

What insurance do you guys use and do you have commercial or private insurance

[@SuiteTravels]

We just recently changed from National General to Progressive. It's a personal policy.

[@theladytech]

Thank God for you guys. I have been pricing my option between a 1 ton 3500 pulley and an international prostar. About the same price range. Thanks so much.

[@SuiteTravels]

So glad we could help....have fun shopping!

[@TJbaseliner]

You did a very good job of explaining how every state varies on licensing requirements and registration fees. I'm from California and I pull my toy hauler with a Freightliner M2 106. This state will not classify that vehicle anything other than a "commercial vehicle" even though it's an RV and not used for commercial purposes. Your Western Star should have a GVWR sticker in the door jamb. The most common configuration was either a 14. 6k or 13.2k front axle with 40000 lb rear ends for a GVWR of around 54,000 lb. The technical term for your transmission is an "automated manual." It's a manual transmission that is shifted and the clutch is engaged via computer and servos. I noticed someone in the comments mentioned you upgraded to a toy hauler. Pulling doubles and being that long would be a serious red flag. Your smart car is already an illegal reducible load, one which can be turned long ways to be less than 102 inches in width. Please don't push the envelope.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you Tyler....we're working as fast as we can to research our options. Really appreciate you taking the time to comment. We can't stress enough that everyone needs to be aware of their home license requirements and comply with them as each state is different. Have a great weekend!

[@Stubones999]

how does this truck compare to the medium duty truck, in ride and fuel consumption?

[@SuiteTravels]

They're about the same Stuart. Both trucks get around 8 1/2 mpg and the ride is very similar.

[@michael_silverback_henders8156]

I loved this video. It is extremely informative. My family and I are buying a 20,000 lb. toy hauler and we have been so worried about buying a big enough truck. So, now I am going tomorrow to look at big rigs. Thank You so very much......

[@SuiteTravels]

So glad it was helpful Michael.....good luck in your search. Let us know if we can answer any questions for you. Thanks for checking us out and Merry Christmas!

[@rmahi17]

Big props I’ve always wondered how to RV in a big rig, Nice setup!

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you very much....and thanks for checking us out! Have a great weekend!

[@kathyg.195]

Just recently discovered your channel. My husband and I are enjoying following you. We’ve been married 41 years also and been rving for as long. Had a camper on a truck when kids growing up but now we’re retired and have a Class C 29 ft. Loving it! Not full timers but gone rving most of the year. Heading for Quartszite from Palm Springs tomorrow. Keep making great videos, fun to watch you guys! 🙋👨‍💼

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks for the kind words Kathy. We really appreciate you comments. Congratulations on 41 years....it seems to be a rarity these days. Glad your enjoying the videos and hope you enjoy your travels.

[@kathyg.195]

Suite Travels Thanks! Safe travels to you too. We’ll be watching your future videos. Love it! 👏

[@wills_sense_of_freedom]

Think it's great that you all are able to travel and live the dream. And what an awesome way to do it. God bless, have a safe year

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Will. We are truly blessed and thank God every day for putting us on this journey!

[@TipsyMarlinTravels]

You forgot the important one, the one I always get asked "do you think you have enough power to pull that thing". If I had a half cent for every time I heard that I would be rich. Nice set up, hope to see you on the road be safe. Tipsy Marlin Travels.

[@SuiteTravels]

😂YES! That's one we forgot to mention....your Pete looks pretty amazing. I'm sure we'll cross paths soon. Thanks for the comment!

[@rorygielarowski8855]

80,000. Is a gross weight. Of truck and trailer It is a commercial truck maximum on five axles

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Rory....I've never seen a GVWR sticker on a Class 8, but that makes sense.

[@53goforit]

hey just a heads up, the fuel filters or only good for 12k tops. with that said not sure which fuel filter your using. if its the upside down clear bowl, when its half full it needs to be changed. I have a 2005 4900 EX long hood Star DDEC V 515 hp OTR DRIVER. Also because your not pulling heavy sometimes when the fuel filters plug up it may not be as noticable as it is when were heavy or pulling hills. So Good Luck and Happy Travels.

[@bodean5163]

Thanks for a great video, very informative. Note: Texas Class C requires a airbrake endorsement but Class C is limited to 20,000lb GVW. Above 20,000lb GVW requires Class B license, your vehicle would be a Class B. Because you are pulling two trailer that requires an additional test and endorsement for double trailers that is only available on a Class A license. This license is normally what commercial truck drivers have. It's expensive, requires frequent renewal.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Bo....appreciate the kind words. Every state is different, that's why we stress folks do their own research and find the requirements for their own situation.

[@jet0577]

Mind me asking what year, how many miles, and what it cost for your HDT??? Thanks. Great videos

[@jimwood5796]

They run 140 to 160k .you can buy a good used one for cheap

[@XploreAz]

Nice username.

[@hoslogistics]

From SURPRISE, AZ - I’m an owner operator in my current life and haul an RV with my current daily driver. I’m definitely going to haul a fifth wheel with my Peterbilt once I retire. Just not sure about a smart car behind the cab or inside of a toy hauler, still thinking about that one.

[@SuiteTravels]

It's a great way to go - good luck on your decision! We have a good friend staying with us right now that has a 2001 long nose Pete with a Smart on the back and it's amazing!

[@opaandomascampingadventures]

Talk about timing. We just walked past your rig walking our dogs a hour ago. The smart car gave it away. Nice rig!!

[@SuiteTravels]

Oh very cool, yeah the smart car does stand out as well as that red truck! 😁 Thank you and next time you walk by come and say hello!

[@philramsey8588]

Is insurance higher with your truck over One ton pickup?

[@SuiteTravels]

It's about the same as our Ram 3500.

[@mikekuczynski1552]

Interesting I always wondered why more people don’t go this route . my experience pulling campers is when to get up to about 17,000LB + a lot of 3/4 and one ton pickup trucks say they can pull that much but stopping it and not having to put brakes on that vehicle and transmission repairs is a real problem no matter what the manufacturer says . Makes sense that a big rig would be more efficient and less to maintain. The question I have is compared to a 3/4 ton or one tone pickup that’s capable of towing a rig like yours what’s the cost difference between the pickups and big rig ? You showed a picture of what you called a midsize truck the ( Freightliner ) why did you not continue using that and go to the large truck ? Happy Trails

[@SuiteTravels]

Hi Mike. You can actually purchase a HDT for less money than a 1 ton truck. We moved from the M2 Freightliner to the HDT because we wanted to carry our Smart car and the M2 didn't have the bed for it.

[@JoePJack1]

Suite Travels I’m assuming you’re referring to used? A brand new Western Star is in $150k-$200k deepening on how you want it.

[@Redbikemaster]

@@JoePJack1 definitely used

[@danthompson1467]

Now this is what you need to have if you got a 5th wheel of any size and quit pissing around with junk toy pick up like a 350 lol way to go man

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Dan 😂

[@JonesN2Travel]

Great video guys. We may or may not be leaning in the HDT direction and these answers are very helpful. Keep up the great work. Safe Travels

[@SuiteTravels]

Ahhh...come on over the the dark side Aaron!

[@noahanderson3486]

Yes it’s true you do not need a CDL to drive a rig like this! But it’s scary to know anybody who can afford this truck can get in it and go down the road. I’m a CDL holder and I’m confident running one of these rigs

[@SuiteTravels]

Yes...hopefully everyone understands this is a VERY large machine and takes the time to learn about it and drive it safely.

[@emtae65]

So I'm still foggy on how you got around the 26k gvwr when your class 8 is rated for over 33k..your laws are same as KS. Your friends in Denis ks. Said I have to get a class B cdl even if it was tagged as an RV. Can you clear this up? Thanks

[@killer2600]

@@emtae65 CDL (Commercial Drivers License) is only required for commercial (for profit) used vehicles. Vehicles registered and used for personal use, federal law states a CDL is not needed. States may and have mandate their own licensing requirements. I know both California and Texas require a Non-Commercial class A or B license to drive rigs that aren't being used commercially, and thus have no federal licensing requirement, but are otherwise in an equivalent weight rating to CDL class A or B vehicles/rigs. Other states may have similar licensing requirements but only the feds mandate CDLs and as in the name it's only required for commercial use.

[@bbattlesword407]

They let swift drivers drive them.....

[@bobhester2121]

Nice video!!! Some states require a non-CDL Lic. if your total wieght is over 26,001 lbs. Some states also require an air brake endorsement.

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Bob....every state is different. I hope folks understand they need to research their own licensing state laws to get correct information 🤔

[@julierehoric3856]

UMMM Air brakes on RV doesnt require CDL. A Class A CDL is required when you have a split AND over 26,001 pounds (pretty sure) . So perhaps ok in certain states when you are DOMICILED there.

[@RiverValleyAcres]

I’ve seen a ton of those mdt’s pulling into the campground. I thought they were bad ass until I seen your set up

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Anthony. Appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment!

[@nazarbrichka3984]

Yeah, you’re definitely not a trucker..it shows. A semi trailer is NOT set up to pull 80k. That’s a total gross weight, truck, trailer and freight.

[@richardfowler3254]

This sure beats my 1/2 Ram and 6k toybox trailer with the golf cart inside... I would love to move up to something larger and more stable on the road... Also I just subscribed and "rang" the bell :-)

[@SuiteTravels]

Thanks Richard! Really appreciate you watching and commenting....welcome to our community!

[@madusmaxamus8670]

One thing they didn't mention is the cost of a class 8 tractor (heavy duty truck). You can find used class 8's for as little as $15,000.00. One of those you will have to put some money into to bring it up to the condition that makes it near worry free. Once that is done you can drive it nearly worry free and pull as large a fifth-wheel trailer as you wish. You would need to jump through the hoops to license your tractor as an RV, but once done it would be like driving a class "A" motorhome.

[@davidallred4611]

I wish I could get afford a rig like yours! I pull my Montana with a 2005 Dodge 2500/Cummins Power. It does very good! Be safe.

[@brettjohnson1597]

check into "Day cab" trucks. Can find pretty new (less than 10 yrs) with low to medium mileage (for a semi) for less than $40k. Found a 2014 Freightliner for $26k and it had about 400k miles on it...sounds high however it is a semi and they are built to do double that or more.

[@larryhicks7558]

I am from Saskatchewan Canada. Yes we have to have a AIR endorsement to drive on any public road . It is a program by our issues lience office at a cost of $10 or $50 to take a weekend program. And the lience is set up on the weight of the vehicle. So I need a class 1 to be in your rig . But can write the test on the line for $10

[@TheArtofRVing]

So Interesting. I bet you can't go 2 feet without someone wanting to talk to you

[@SuiteTravels]

Hahaha....you're correct. We usually have an audience when we take the car down 😂

[@kenkaplan4413]

without special permits the GVWR is 80K lbs for an 18 wheeler. Semi trucks can get permits to carry more but you pay for the weight sticker I have driven commercially in Ca. and the Cordelia truck scale AKA the iron Curtin to truckers has told me that having not for hire and private coach exempts you from stopping at the scales when you are pulling an RV. If you are bobtailing you need to pull in

[@9983sp]

1: it's 80,000 lbs gross weight. Not pull an 80,000 lb trailer. 2: rv fifth wheel hitches don't come standard with air bags or springs. 3: what modifications were required to hook your trailer lights and brakes to the truck?

[@Marko343]

Thanks for all the info. I'm in the early is this possible rabbit hole of trying to build a car hauling RV HDT setup that randomly seemed like a good idea. Way more work involved but seems cheaper than some of the trailer setups I've seen you can buy. Take care guys.

[@alnewell3369]

Who made the bed on your truck? Or the utility bed?

[@SuiteTravels]

It was a home build by the previous owner Al. Hope you had a great Christmas!

[@fj9460-lr]

Your presentation is most informative, since we might go HDT for our fifth wheel I have prior over the road driving of HDT, when the trucks had pizza pie sized steering wheels! Thanks happy RVING

[@SuiteTravels]

Thank you very much Frank....it's not for everyone but we certainly enjoy it. Thanks for checking us out and Merry Christmas!

[@jwatkins5155]

Here in the UK when we haul American 5th weels we have no choice but to use heavy duty trucks😅

[@ferraritoybox]

Thx for info, ? How are you getting away with being over length with a 2nd trailer behind your 5th wheel, I have the same set up with a Peterbilt tractor pulling a grand design solitude & only allowed 70 feet in nevada & 65 feet in other states. Also my rig is licensed as a automobile in Nevada a long with non-commerce on the side of the truck below the doors, I would like to pull my jeep behind my 5th wheel, thx & please advise if you will

[@paulramey2735]

Have you and your wife ever. Stay at rend lake in Illinois

[@SuiteTravels]

No we haven't Paul....should we?

[@lancerains4185]

53 foot dry van commercial trailer weights about 15K you can load them up with about 44K That will put you at a gross load with your tractor about 2k under 80k GVWR That pretty much gives you a perspective of what you're pulling with that tractor your RV weighs about as much as an empty dry van commercial trailer... The truck hasn't even started to work... Moral of the story if you're pulling a big fifth we'll unless you're rich why would you want to buy an expensive one ton duly or 80 or a $100000 only to wear it out pulling your RV all around the country When you can get a solid used tractor for half the money pull your fifth wheel like it's nothing... Not only that you can stop and sleep in the tractor in a pinch...

[@bvr1962]

the gross vehicle weight of that truck is 80k and probably weighs well that's a double frame western star probably 22.5 that might be a little heavy so minus 22.5 from 80k so roughly 56.5k is max for trailer and contents even as an RV the 80k is max weight for 2 axle tractor add a 3rd axel 100 or 120k but north of 100k you run into permit restrictions

[@thomaswilson8634]

I want to say this if i may. Better have deep pockets for when they break down. Im a 44 year veteran trucker. Ive spent 10s of thousands of dollars on preventive maintenance and still have a 10 to 15k breakdown. I will be hauling my drv with my Kenworth kenworth . Its very expensive when she breaks.

[@kenhuffmanjr9919]

Why...oh please why....are you changing oil every 5000-7500 miles in a one ton pickup????? That is unnecessary and not great for the environment. I change my diesels every 15000+ miles.

[@mattp9431]

Very informative video! A couple of questions. Are you aware of families with kids that are using HDT? Have you ever seen an HDT that is carrying a vehicle larger than a smart car, ie family of four friendly? The wife and I are looking to full time in 5-6 years and are doing the research now so we can be better prepared when we take the plunge. Thanks!

[@SuiteTravels]

Hi Matt - thanks for watching! Yes, we are friends with some families that use their HDT with kids. The most common modification they do is a bench seat in the back with seat belts. As far as loading a larger vehicle....you need to be careful extending the bed of the truck to accommodate the length. It has been done, but make sure you get someone that knows the engineering side of the issue. When you move the weight back you lighten the front axle weight on the truck which has created some issues for some that have done that. If you decide to go that way you might consider a bumper pull travel trailer rather than a 5th wheel. We know some that have done that and it seems to work very well. Take a look at some of the Facebook groups with HDTs....there is always a conversation regarding those issues. Good luck in your research and welcome to our community!

[@RLBS61]

Those trucks do not pull 80000 lbs.Max weight of a combination is 80000 lbs.A truck will typically haul about 46000 lbs. It’s empty truck and empty trailer plus cargo but most states max weight is 80000 lbs.

[@kenkaplan4413]

CHP officers are similar to the Ca. DMV, Some may have different opinions so I suggest calling the scale house and asking for the officers name just in case.

[@julioortega7303]

The trailer is not supposed to weight 80k. It’s the whole truck and trailer that can weigh 80k. Loaded

[@jasonward7230]

Why did you go from the m2 to the hdt? Carry a daily driver?

[@SuiteTravels]

That's the main reason Jason...the MDT was a little large for city parking lots!