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

[@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.

[@traganfour7168]

This guy is an honest salesman. God bless him.

[@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.

[@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

[@ECEV]

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

[@Bikes_N_Adventure]

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

[@anthonyg6924]

I'm crying! 🤣🤣🤣

[@Thekoffrekup]

Lol

[@240606ktt]

😂😂😂😂

[@240606ktt]

😂😂😂😂

[@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!

[@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.

[@Nicolas41394]

Currently towing a 295 kodiak with a 3.5 EcoBoost f150 no problems

[@limited40]

Nicolas41394 thanks for your comment. i just purchased my first travel trailer, a Cherokee 274 VFK and have not taken possession yet and these comments were freaking me out. I have a 3.5L Ecoboost with max tow package.

[@Nicolas41394]

@@limited40 I have the 2017 with the 3.55 axel. You need to watch the hitch weight more than the gross trailer weight.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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?

[@elizabethw4519]

We are newbies to towing travel trailers. We had a popup Westlake prior. Our tow vehicle is a Silverado 1500 V8 and just bought a wildwood 171rbxl. 3800 lb. 22.5’. We should be fine I wonder about the sway bar. This trailer has dollies. Some say you need a swaybar, some say no. We drove it over an hour home on highway and was pretty good without one

[@robbiejk9613]

A swaybar is a great addition, but not entirely necessary. Ensuring your trailer is level using a hitch leveler is a great investment. I tow a Jayco Featherlite all day long with my 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3 Liter, no swaybar and have a hitch leveler and barely know the trailer is back there. My friend added a sway bar to his Silverado and says he loves it. The great thing about the Silverados is you have the wider weight distribution across the rear axle and they are a joy to tow with.

[@elizabethw4519]

Thanks, ours is a 2011, wonder if the same is for that year as well what you mentioned about the Silverados, yes?

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 !

[@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

[@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

[@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 !

[@Scottytremaine]

Wow…I’m towing a 19RBM with my Tacoma and do just fine…I’m 2000 pounds below my max tow capacity,I also have a $1,200.00 weight distribution and sway control kit…so there is that lol

[@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.

[@AcadianHoons]

@@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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?

[@MaintenanceMan00]

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

[@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.

[@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!!

[@ARluvr1]

Towed a 6600 lbs camper that is 32 foot overall length with a 2015 f150 thousands of miles thru the Smokey mountains and not had a single issue. Run a nice weight distribution hitch and you will be fine……

[@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.

[@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.

[@Storm-Chaser]

Even if you "can" tow a heavier trailer with a 1/2-ton pickup, it doesn't mean you should. Compared to their 3/4 and 1-ton brethren, they usually have smaller brakes and smaller transmissions. So two important factors come into play: getting it moving is a lot easier than getting it stopped, and you're running a higher risk of burning up your transmission. The majority of transmission rebuild jobs that come into my shop are from 1/2-ton pickup owners that insist on pulling trailers near or over the max rating of the truck, and those aftermarket transmission coolers people are installing aren't helping but to delay the inevitable for a very short time.

[@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.

[@admorris11]

Like anything else in life, it’s the person in charge that makes the difference. Don’t pull in high winds, bad weather etc...doesn’t matter if you’ve got a dually, 3/4 ton or half ton. It’s the operator, not the truck that gets someone in trouble.

[@johnvillafranca6188]

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

[@dondondon676]

Dear JD, Man, thought we did a lot of research, but there is way more info out there than I thought! Didn’t even think to check KZbin! I’m not really into “social media”, or any media for that matter! But now I’m gonna subscribe! Bought a F150, 5 1/2’ bed, with 3:55 rear axle, AND off road package, so stiffer suspension. Max towing capacity is listed at 12,700 lbs. Then Bought a Outdoors RV 24’ TT, overall length 28’, just under 7K lbs. Hitch setup is an Eaz-lift Recurve R3. Took off from dealer and had UNBELIEVABLE sway. Scared the s**t out of me. Also cross winds, and then a semi flies by at 75-80 mph and dang..glad we made it to our first stop in 1 piece, though i had a massive headache from stress. Tightened down the sway adjusting bolt, that helped. Tightened some more, that helped too. Then, after comments from other RV in the knows, and a semi driver (all thought the trailer was riding high in the front) we dropped the hitch down a notch. Added some water to camp overnight. Drove pretty well! Then drained water to compare and while not AS sway-y as it was, it still swayed a bit. Outdoors RVs sit higher off the ground for more backcountry ground clearance. Only 2 people in truck and will not have a lot of gear (dog, hunting stuff, few clothes and of course food). Will fill up with up to 80 gal of water (640 lbs) and 60 lbs of propane at last stop before we head out to hunting grounds. Can we adjust this thing to make it safe and somewhat comfortable to drive? REally don’t want to trad a BRAND NEW truck with 1200 miles on it for a 3/4 ton, but if we must, we will. BTW, our friends have a F150 long bed with same trailer and seem to have no trouble. I know you’re going to tell me we should have gotten a 3/4 ton (didn’t because it barely barely fits in garage) but we didn’t. I want to know if we can make this work for us. Add sway bars on truck? Air bags on suspension? Anything??

[@henryford2736]

The R3 is not the best choice. I have basically the same setup as you F150 3.0L diesel 26ft TT with the R6 tho which has better sway control than the R3. One of the best anti sway hitches is the Hensley. They are expensive but will eliminate sway. Some other things you can do is to pay attention how you load your trailer. Any weight at the back of the trailer will increase sway. Put everything up front. Start with a new good anti sway hitch and avoid towing in cross wind. Understand you don't want to trade in your truck. F250 will not necessarily eliminate the sway. You can have F250 and still have sway if you don't have a good anti sway hitch.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@johniboz1]

Thank you. We're in the market to buy our first RV and I own a Ram 1500 and wasn't sure how much trailer I could pull!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@austintalley4070]

I had a 4Runner rated for 5000lbs I pulled a 4900lbs trailer. Never had an issue. Installed a brake control. Installed a transmission cooler. Never towed above 70mph and used a WD hitch every time.

[@rocketj7449]

Very good advice about half ton towable trailers. I have a tow hauler that is 25' overall length, is 6000lbs dry and 9000lbs fully loaded with bikes, water, etc. However, it was not half ton towable because of the 1500 lb tongue weight. Very tongue heavy! My payload on my Tundra was 1400 lbs. This trailer required a 3/4 ton truck. Even the though the Tundra did a very good job pulling this trailer, I did not want to be legally liable if there was an accident. I'm glad I switch to a 3/4 ton truck. While I did not notice a difference on towing manners between the two trucks, I can tow with peace of mind now.

[@sonictech1000]

Do you remember what your payload capacity was on that Tundra? I'm curious because on a recent trip I saw a surprising number of Tundras with 2000lb truck campers in the bed. That's something I haven't seen before.

[@rocketj7449]

sonictech1000 Yes, it was about 1400 lbs. My vehicle was an extra cab 4wd with 5.7v8.

[@rohankumar4896]

Jonathan, what do you think about a trailer weighing 6000 lbs 30 ft long would do behind a tundra with tow package, wdh and sway bar? Got a trip coming up from nor cal to Grand Canyon and I rented a travel trailer

[@sombod1692]

Hello Im a newbie making a purchase soon here. I have a silverado with a 4.8 , 3.73 gear. Manufacture says Im good for 7,000 pounds dry weight and Id like to pull 5600 pound trailer thats 29' long. Opinion greatly appreciated

[@toddowens6345]

The last pumpa you showed I tow is with a 2017 expedition platinum 3.5 ecoboost. I do have the weight bar system, but I pull it with no problem at all. From Louisiana to South Carolina at less once a year and from Louisiana to Colorado and anywhere else I want to go. The normal weight is 11k fully loaded .

[@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.

[@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.

[@JCar3.0]

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.

[@robertknorr8470]

Great video, i agree 100%. I have driven two different Class C RV’s to Alaska in the past 4 years, have driven all size trucks all over this great country. I consider myself an above average driver, having made my living on the road for many years. That being said, I just returned from a 3 week trip, 3000 miles, from Fl., Al., Tn., Va., Wv., Nc., Sc., towing a rented travel trailer, Jayco, White Hawk, behind my 2015 F150, 5.0, 2 wheel drive. This was a 25 ft unit, 5800 GVW. The truck had the power to tow it where we went, would not want to tackle the mountains out west ! The issue I have is the trailer, even with tow package, torsion bars etc., is all over the place. Every truck, a little wind, it just wears you out driving this thing. 3-400 miles a day is all you can do in a day, with out feeling beat up. My opinion is, if you are towing “any size” TT, you should have at least a 3/4 to 1 ton tow vehicle. This whole 1/2 ton thing the RV manufacturers feed us is flawed in so many ways. Towing many of theses 1/2 ton towable around the “flat roads” of FL., may be fine, but in the mountains and on the busy interstates is another thing completely. My opinion is RV Share or Outdoorsy are two RV rental sites that are worth looking into before you purchase any RV.

[@Hugo-mg9ef]

Robert Knorr ill just buy f350 Drw to tow a 25 ft 6k tt so i wont have to worry about anything going down the road 🚙🚙🚙

[@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.

[@herb7877]

As a long time RV & trailer tower I would agree with about 98% of your video and conclusions. 110% for newbie’s. I do tow a Jayco 27-DSRL with a 1/2t though. The trailer is 30’ total length bumper to hitch . 27’ box. The Ford 3.5 Eco 1/2t truck is rated for 10400#’s towing. At ~7200#’s all loaded up + ~500#’s in the truck bed + ~500#’s inside the passanger area I feel its about max’d out even though statistically well under all the ratings. Plenty of power, no problems going 65mph up and down hills here in the PNW mountain ranges. BUT as you stated; alot of realestate subject to side wind. Driving into 25-35mph head winds all day that sometimes became side winds were a challenge on a trip. A newbie would have had some problems. I would not have gone the 1/2t route except we had identified a smaller trailer first; bought the truck & then “upgraded” at the last moment. In the past have always had a 3/4t truck but the new 1/2t Fords are basically like the yester- year 3/4t. In fact have higher load & towing ratings. Also; I feel there is really no such thing as a 1/2t towable fiver. …. Regardless of the claims i believe your overloaded before you pull out of the lot. Great videos!

[@hardeehamlin47]

There are many fivers that are really half-ton towable. The problem is people think all half-tons are the same. Payloads vary from as little as 1000 pounds to over 3000 pounds. You need to know your truck.

[@DeltaEchoZulu]

So with a 7200 lb TT, that's 720-1080 tongue weight. Figuring in ~100 lb hitch, and you said ~1000 lbs in passengers/cargo, you should have 1820-2180 lbs of available payload with your F150 listed on your Tire and Loading/Yellow sticker. The newer F150's have great payload numbers, mine has 1631 lbs available and I tow a 6400 lb GVWR TT and am just under our payload with an ~880 lb tongue and ~500 lbs of passenger/cargo weight in the TV . Pulling with these ecoboost engines are effortless...stopping one, is largely governed by your payload.

[@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 :)

[@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

[@AskSpectra]

As a 12 year trucker. I got a 7000lb 37 ft, tracer with a chevy 1500... trust me, that's like a vacation in a prius with a few clothes in the trunk...

[@opie652003]

I've noticed when we bought our 32ft, 6600 lb Shadow Cruiser, we had no problem at all and feel comfortable towing it with my 16 Sierra crew cab. The problem I ran in to was the actual dealership. They originally pushed me in to buying a 38ft Jayco with a dry weight of 8600 and told me my truck was very capable of towing it. I questioned the rep many times and was told it was just fine for my truck. My suggestion after buying my first this April is, know your limits, know your truck limits and don't let a salesman, push a sale. We ended up dropping it off in the middle of the lot and told them we were returning it and getting a lightweight and shorter trailer. I was pissed and they were made aware of the issues.

[@gregmislick1117]

When I got my TT the dealer set up my hitch ( it needed a bigger ball and height adjustment). The lot was a little bumpy getting from the service area out to the road, but pulling into a rest area 5 miles away and inspecting things... ball was 2" low and the WD bars were on the wrong links and the list goes on... did the best I could on the spot and then spent a bunch of time resetting things etc. Dealers generally prove themselves to be less than reliable and trust worthy resources beyond signing the sales contract. Good luck all

[@jasonhowes1704]

I’ve towed a lot of trailers. Always better to be safe. Listen to this guy.

[@bigrobntexas1720]

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

[@louishernandez8040]

I have a jeep commander with the 5.7 hemi . My max is 7500 . I have a Fleetwood mallard 19n. Weighs in at 4300 max at 5500 . I drove just last week from casa grande az up to Vegas then to Sand hollow in Utah. The up hills and down hills at 6% grade were handled just perfect since I didn't push my weight to the limit. Some people just think oh i have a truck I can pull anything . Safety is key especially when you are carrying treasure in your vehicle, which is loved ones. Great video and keep up the great work .

[@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?

[@zygmuntziokowski7877]

Great video! I just came across it, and I wish I saw it before buying my GD. The good news I am under 28 ft overall and around 6,000 pound.

[@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!

[@JackFrost-xy7yl]

You are saving lives. The lives of people towing and the people that are driving around them. Many Thanks.

[@miztrusa]

I have a Tundra 5.7L and I try to keep my TT around 50% of actual tow capacity. I was told you should only go 80% or less of actual tow capacity. I've seen plenty of ppl out there who have been taken by an RV dealer selling them dry weight trailers at towing max capacity.

[@docspencer53]

I own a 2014 F-150 with 11,300 rated towing capacity. I bought a 34' tow behind trailer BUT!!! added the best load leveler/sway control in the business. The engine delivers 425ft-lb torque in all gear ranges. This truck never flinches when I enter the interstate. I do need to be careful when a semi passes me, but other than that I have every bit of confidence in the truck. I am not overly confidant and travel at only 65 mph max. My son, who is a professional trucker, drives it at 75mph and says that it handles very well. I like this advice and I think that caution is recommended when a half ton with low towing capacity and low load capacity is used for towing a large trailer. I've seen even 3/4 tons where they have no load levelers or sway control and it's amazing that they even reach their destination with such a bad rig. Never tow up to or over your trucks capacity and always have all the best equipment for stabilizing the trailer.

[@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

[@TheRamGuy]

This is the most true video out there. Last year I like most people purchased a half ton truck rated at 9650lbs towing and a 30' TT which is 35' long total because it weighs 6850 dry so I should be good right. Well I towed that camper 1600 miles around Michigan, Indiana and Ohio and I sure learned a few things. First thing is I should have got a 3/4 ton truck not because my half ton doesnt have power because it has plenty but for control during windy conditions or going beside semi trucks. It was a white knuckle experience alot of the time and will mentally fatigue you especially with your family in the truck. Second load the weight inside the camper up front! I cant stress this point enough and will give you way better stability. Finally have a great WD hitch(do not cheap out here) and dont think about going over 65 mph unless you want to have a far higher risk of crashing. I am getting ready to camp next week and I am not looking forward to towing so maybe next year I get a 3/4 ton.

[@joecurry7249]

What truck do you have? What hitch system? There is no way you should be white knuckling if you are well set up.

[@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.

[@chesshead3943]

I gradually learned this is really good advice! You should link to videos about estimating tongue weight, measuring tongue weight, calculating payload, and payload limits.

[@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.

[@Roadglide911]

I pull a FSX 210RT with a 2019 GMC Sierra 4x4 with an R-3 Hitch and have had no problems except my lead foot. Taking a trip this weekend and made a promise to myself that no faster than 65 MPH!

[@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!

[@gabbyvg.9067]

My dad and I have been searching for educational videos on RV'ing, and yours is/are the ONLY ONE(s) that covers something USEFULL! All the other videos are on, what food to bring to get-togethers, or something silly like that. Do you have a video on what type of truck to buy? Daddys shopping for one

[@PhilL4650]

It may be too late! I have a 2012 Silverado 1\2 ton 4 wheel drive. The GVWR is 7,000 lbs. I purchased a Pioneer 27ft. (31 ft. Overall) with a GVWR of 7,000 lbs. I have the trailer braking system installed and the entire anti-sway package on the camper. What problems MIGHT come up in the future, and do you have any suggestions and advice. Please don't tell me to buy a bigger truck, that ain't gonna' happen any time soon.

[@MichaelWoodside]

Not sure what Truck you do have or what gear, engine, etc.. but there are some good towing guides here... www.trailerlife.com/trailer-towing-guides/ find the 2012 and your make and model and engine, etc.. that will give you the MAX towing rating for your vehicle. i can say that I have towed several times over the MAX and its not FUN... its slow and take a lot longer to brake, and you MUST have a weight distribution hitch to even be reasonably safe.. and in some states it is illegal to exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating for your vehicle.

[@donaldthomason4588]

My AT4 has no issues towing 26ft. With the 6.2 and 10 speed transmission does well through the mountains.

[@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.

[@sharkk2770]

Very good video! It's also important to note the condition of your half ton truck. know the condition of your brakes and tires, transmission and how the engine is running. Not all trucks are brand new. Also a big factor to consider is are you towing 1 or 2 hours away or 12 hours away. I let the wife talk me into a bigger trailer so I could talk her into a bigger newer truck. Just a tip

[@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.

[@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.

[@puddintheredneck4422]

I have a 2010 Ford F-150 with 9700 towing capacity. I tow a 2004 27ft. Hornet by Keystone. Max weigh of Hornet is 8500+. Total length of trailer is 32 ft. Been towing this set up for almost 3 yes with NO issues. But looking to upgrade to bigger trailer and will also upgrade to FORD F-350. Just my 2 cents.

[@Silrk246813]

I like this video; watching little boys (regardless of age) drive there undersized vehicle will always be an issue still but staying informed is important

[@TheJenkstube]

Great video! I have a 33' travel trailer that the dealer claimed was 1/2 ton towable when I bought it. It is about 6500lbs dry. I towed it with a 2014 F150 with air bags for the first couple of years. It was like the tail wagging the dog. Too much trailer for that truck. I have since traded up to a Ram 2500 Cummins and what a huge difference. I feel MUCH safer and in control while towing.

[@southernlife869]

110% agree with you. Had a wildwood 32ft behind a half ton. Scary. Scary. Went and got a 3/4 ton after only pulling it one time.

[@LowsJuan]

Great advice! Unfortunately, I am sure that there are people have found this out after they have spent the money. Plus even if your pickup truck says it can tow a 27,500lbs fifth wheel trailer on paper doesn't mean it can do it comfortably.

[@RVBob]

Nailed it. I am in that boat. Got a new 1/2 ton Silverado and a new Heritage Glen 272RL.

[@sbruce8269]

Thanks for sharing your opinions, and in general I agree with all you say. I notice a lot of thumbs down but they are probably the ones that pass you on the road doing 75 and with an unbalanced load

[@TheFecat17]

You mentioned "comfort" We have towed a 28' travel trailer with a 2016 Tahoe and had no problems except high wind conditions. With sway control it was mostly pretty comfortable. I could give more details but I'd suggest being realistic about what you can tow with your vehicle and take precautions as to how you load it in regard to weight distribution. But be realistic, and consider safety.

[@mikekeefer4365]

We've been towing our 30' TT with a Tahoe for the last 4 years. It was properly equipped with a sway control and weight distribution hitch. It towed decently. Not as much power as I would like and you definitely knew the trailer was back there. We recently upgraded to a 3/4 ton. It has more and I really don't feel the trailer much behind me.

[@tomrnh]

Shawn I've got a 2015 Tahoe looking to get a travel trailer for cross country camping. I was looking at 30 feet, you think that's too much to tow comfortably?

[@lifelong5425]

Very good....I want to share this based on that info....Had a Ram 1500 with air bags, sway control, new tires on both trailer and truck, all new hd brakes, tow haul, and all that. 5300 lbs..lite series...plus 3 adults, and stuff...added approx 575 lbs, pulling overall 31 feet....well within, yet I never felt good about it...Thankfully, having driven transit buses for 20 years, I understood buffeting issues, and overtaking beside the big rigs, side winds etc..it took a bit longer to get to B from A, but, safety was paramount....Taking it easy, following the big guys up the grades, tow haul was amazing on the downs, but watching others going flying past me, similar sized was hard to watch..Now, I've upgraded to a Ram 3500 because I purchased a camper, only1300 lbs dry weight, and again it said it is doable with a 1550 /1/2 ton... couldn't see that feeling good either... the Ram 3500, feels so much more able, you can sense the "heavy duty" within. Now i know that in the case of pulling trailers, truck size truly matters....Careful out there people..better to have an older heavier duty than a new 1/2 ton "street truck", it just asks too much of the truck. Happy trails

[@heartfacingupward]

The simple solution is put the truck rating on the rv. Take the guesswork out of it.

[@darriusholt]

It would be outdated by the next generation of trucks.

[@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.

[@kingarthur1953]

I understand your focus towards safe towing. I have the same focus. But it needs to be very clear that all 1/2 ton trucks are not equal. The Heavy duty payload package and a high end hitch such as a ProPride is essential for larger trailer pulling with a 1/2 ton TV. I pull a Grand Design Imagine 2970RL with a F-150 Lariat with both the HDPP and Max Tow packages as well as the 8 foot bed and 5.0L engine. I have also added a set of Fox 2.0 rear shocks and the RoadMaster live suspension and use the ProPride hitch. It tows like a dream and wind has very little effect on it. Then when not towing I have a great daily driver. It’s all about doing your homework and research.

[@travisandrews6857]

Don’t think they make an 8’ on a crew cab half ton only 5’ and 6.5’ unless they do on extended cabs.

[@jerryhowell19]

What's the 5L have to do with anything. The 3.5 eco is at the top of the towing engines. More horses, more torque

[@DavidGraham-b1r]

Something else to consider is that half ton trucks use a semi floating axle to save weight. If the axle snaps the wheel assembly brakes and all leave. On heavier trucks they use a full floating axle with the added security that if the axle snaps everything stays intact and safe