Towing Big Trailers with a 1/2 Ton Pickup. Owner's Experience!

[@BigTruckBigRV]

The point of this video is to show how even a relatively light (empty) trailer (3,800lbs and under 26' total length) can impact the driving performance of a 1/2 ton pickup. Many would claim that a weight distribution and sway control hitch wouldn't be needed for such a short and light setup. This video isn't to bash 1/2 ton trucks, but more to demonstrate how you need to be careful when towing any type of trailer that is long, tall, and heavy behind a light truck or SUV. Thanks David.

[@dac232009]

I pulled a 20 foot Enclosed trailer from comanche Texas to brookhaven Mississippi & back i got 7.5 mpg with a 2017 Silverado highcountry 5.3 stock everything. I was doing 85 to 90 mph

[@dedalliance1]

@@dac232009 Part of me wants to say I doubt your truck was pushing 90 mpg with a trailer and still getting 7.5 mpg, lol.

[@Hev2500hd]

If he can do 80mph in a 20mph cross wind with no weigh distribution or sway control I would say that's pretty Damn good. I wonder how it would do with 2 tons in the trailer

[@chadsteele1]

I am super happy someone is bringing the light to what trucks are really capable of. For instance, my sisters 2002 Duramax has a tow capacity of I think (can double check) 9500lbs. My 2017Titan has almost the same tow capacity. Things have changed over years but just cause my truck says 9250lbs doesn't mean I'd pull near that, sure it could and maybe for a short couple Km trip I'd do that hauling dump trailer and dirt but no long distance, just unsafe. Good job.

[@marcusyoung2870]

@@dac232009 Exceeding the speed rating of your trailer tires, huh. Let me know how that works out for you down the road.

[@randy5766]

This is a perfect video for what not to go. A classic example of "some people need training". I tow a Forest River 27ft camper with my 2018 1/2 ton Laramie Ram. I have an integrated brake system and a tow/haul selector and my tow package has a load leveled system with anti sway. I have just recently returned from a 200 mile trip on some very busy eastern highways and I've never had issues as you described in all my years of towing. My campers dry weight is 6754 lbs and bit heavier loaded. Get real guys!

[@ronfeinberg]

I think this video does a real disservice to the public about 1/2 ton towing. The big issue is you don't talk about the hitch. If you would have used a proper weight distribution hitch, and set up properly; the tongue weight would be distributed to both truck axles and the trailer axles; allowing the truck/trailer to ride flat. This completely changes the towing dynamic. As well, using a Hensley or Pro-Pride hitch completely eliminates the sway as the trailer no longer has leverage on the tow vehicle, regardless of the wind. And who tows a trailer like that without having a proper braking setup? The premise you propose is to just throw a bigger, heavier tow vehicle at the trailer to offset an improper hitch setup. Like I said a disservice.

[@BigTruckBigRV]

Ron, I would normally agree, but this trailer was only 3,800lbs with 500ish lbs of tongue weight being pulled by a truck with a 10k tow rating. Had it been a flat car hauler, people likely wouldn't have been as critical.

[@Berrypancakes229]

Big Truck Big RV My husband tows a 29 bhs jayflight TT weighs 5,600 with 3.5 echo boost. With no problem. With anti-sway bars and distribution hitch . I think it’s called that. Are you against the ford eco boost towing at this weight 5,600

[@joemunk]

Hey there. I'm looking into a cruiser, 28 feet likely 11k lbs with trailer fuel and goods included. My silverado is rated for 11.2 with the 3.73 rear end. I have the 3.08 and will be swapping to the 4.10 so that should easily exceed my trucks max trailering weight. Tongue weight comes in under spec as well. Do you think the 5.3 has enough in it to pull something like that out of the water? The parking for the boat is less than 100 yards away so it would never even hit a highway connected to my pickup. What are your thoughts, can I get away with that?

[@joemunk]

@@BigTruckBigRV side note, my silverado does have full gain and brake control mounted to the dash. So I'm not worried about being sent into the river. My question is more about whether or not we can get back out and do it safely.

[@johnvanderlip]

Why does the argument that the trailer needs to be lighter than the truck only apply to half tons? It seems that as soon as you're in a 2500 it's OK to tow more than the weight of the truck. Where's the logic in that.

[@TexasDraped]

that's not true. my 17 silverado can tow 11,000 lbs as rated in the owners manual. the truck only weighs half of that.

[@Sig721Tau]

@@TexasDraped You didn't state if its a 1500 or 2500?

[@donleamon8653]

Uh, was this an example of what NOT to do? Reduced weight over the steers, 80 mph in admitted windy conditions and no trailer brakes? I'm no safety sally, but this flatbiller was not a real poster child for making your 1/2 ton point JD.

[@joelwingate7994]

I agree completely.

[@InLineDiesel6]

I was going to say the same thing. His actions seemed irresponsible and put other motorists in jeopardy.

[@johnvanderlip]

Totally useless video. The fact that the trailer was too light wouldn't have helped in the wind. If anything, it proved just how capable this truck is. No weight distribution, no Sway control, no brakes, empty enclosed trailer on a windy day at 80mph. If he survived that someone with a proper setup could do very well with this truck.

[@TrooperRich]

Don’t forget he was not wearing a seatbelt! Where is TX Troopers when you need them.

[@bigtrucklittlerv7969]

Hay, Don when did you get out?

[@jonnyg44]

You guys made this video just so people would complain lol I love the comments like everyone always does everything the proper way

[@IlIKRATOSIlI]

Not about everyone else. If you are going to put an informative video up. Get your setup right first. This is just piss poor decisions making all around.

[@herb7877]

Hate to pile on & repeat some of the other comments; but I’ve been towing for over 40+ years and would agree a 3/4t would tow better than a 1/2t in a lot of circumstances, BUT I currently tow 7200# tt with a F150 Eco with little to no issues all over the NW hills & mountains . I’d not tow anymore with it even though its rated over 10k #’s towing; but I’m old school as well. This guy is a disaster waiting to happen though. Towing in his environment with strong winds, no trailer brake controller, no stabilizer/ weight distribution bars, no air bags(all of which I have) and over 70mph (said 80 actually) is INSANE ! No reason to be going over 65 mph (i’d bet his tires arent rated for it as well) let alone the correct safety equipment. These kind of people irratate me as they are a hazard to all. My bet is most of the disaster videos you see posted are people towing without the correct equipment & not experienced enough for the conditions and / or the equipment they have….

[@Berrypancakes229]

Herb McDonnell My husband tows 29 Jayco JAY flight travel trailer weighs 5,600 with no problem at all with his ford 150 Eco boost 3.5 max tow package. But drives carefully through high winds. He loves his eco boost for towing and daily use . Good gas mileage for daily use. It seems like this video is against ford eco boost towing Travel Trailer period. Even if it’s under the tow capacity.

[@richstarboard3195]

I have a 19 Ram 1500 with brake controller. I have over 4000 towing miles on it towing a 5200 lbs (dry) Rockwood TT, 26’ long bumper to hitch. When towing I get 9.5 MPG. I drove from FL to SC a few weeks ago with wind gusts up to 25 MPH, I could feel the wind but I never felt I was pushing the capability of the truck. My truck has lane assist and that helped.

[@devodar2579]

I agree, this video is more about people like JD trying to show he needs a big bad truck when he hardly every uses it. I towed with a Ram 1500 Megacab 8500 29' travel trailer through CA, AZ, CO, Montana, N Dakota all the way around Yellowstone three times and never had any issues whatsoever. Not even close calls. We've all been accustomed to showing how bad we need a big bad diesel...but then we use it 1% of the total time.

[@jj516]

So no WDH, no sway control, and no trailer brake controller? That’s not a half-ton problem. That’s just a poor setup that has no business towing more than 2,000 pounds.

[@PcGames6]

Amen

[@IlIKRATOSIlI]

I can't believe they put this video up.

[@TheMatoo2002]

Put on your seatbelt and get a brake controller and an equalizing hitch

[@DavidVanVoris]

Matt Maniurka thanks

[@mrmichaeltscott]

I've been towing fifty years and millions of miles. That's what I do professionally. Trust me when I say these guys know almost nothing! That was the best example of what not to do I've ever seen in my life! Properly equipped you can tow manufacture capacity when using manufacture guidelines. This channel is so bogus. Wannabe truck drivers. Back in 72 I pulled a 24ft holiday Rambler all over the United states full time 4 seasons over 3 years with a Chevy impala. Any half ton truck today is about 75% better capability. They have no idea how to set up a towing rig, "it is empty right? " LOL. Complete fail.

[@rob1484]

I admit I was skeptical of a channel where a guy tows a 14,000 lb trailer with a medium duty truck. Got nothing against wanting to stay well under your vehicle specs so it lasts a long time and you're as safe as possible, and definitely nothing against wanting a big truck. That said, I do take exception to all the towing bs I hear these days.

[@chadsteele1]

Yes and back then that rambler and 24foot trailer (Unsafe) My dad towed a 24foor komfort with a 76blazer, I remember sometimes the sway up the canyons, he upgraded years later to a 81suburban, didn't even feel the trailer then. Both trucks had 350's but the suburban was set up to tow, suspension and a bigger longer truck.

[@Sig721Tau]

@@chadsteele1 Impala and 24ft Holiday Rambler trailer. Reading comprehension 101.

[@toddgibbs1321]

I also subscribe to David’s channel. I saw his video on towing that trailer. My first comment to him was that he needs wdh and sway control. Air ride does not ... not fix or replace proper trailer connection. Air ride can actually hide problems. I pull a 28’ long travel trailer that is 5000 lbs empty, 6500-7000 lbs loaded (my estimation) with my Ram 1500. Wdh, sway control, electric brake controller, and I am completely comfortable towing around the north east. Hills, crosswinds, etc. He was pulling a long closed trailer without the proper setup. I would argue that his experience with the 2500 Ram actually hurt him in this case. He failed to recognize that he needed to do more when towing with a 1500.

[@Sig721Tau]

I agree with everything you had said except for subscribing to David's channel. He's a tool that is going to get other people killed on the highway. 80 mph?

[@michaelmcdermott4161]

Confused 😟is this a what not to do video. No weight distribution . No sway control. No brake controller? Doing 80. Wtf

[@DonPatr0L]

Yes, this video is worthless.

[@MikeCgaz]

it's the Kewl KidZ world now....

[@jordancook1668]

This channel points out some good things while also fostering an incredibly strong anti-1/2 ton stance, even if it doesn’t intend to. Most people don’t want bigger trucks, sales numbers prove it. 2020 marked the largest year in history for new RV sales and the overwhelming majority were travel trailers towed by half-tons. Seen an endless string of wrecks on the highways involving these trailers? Me neither. My thoughts are these. If the numbers are all considered and are within limits, you are objectively safe and operating within limits. You don’t need to stay under 80% of your tow rating or make sure your trailer’s GVW is under the tow rating. Same thing with payload. If tongue is under rated tongue capacity and within payload and trailer weight, actual weight is under tow rating, you are fine. The engineers who came up with those numbers already employed a hefty factor of safety in their calculations, as any qualified engineer does. The engineers working for truck manufacturers are imminently qualified, and also have to answer to regulatory authorities. That all being said, there is a subjective comfort level that ought to be considered as well. I don’t tow much, and when I do it is not relaxing. It’s not terrifying either, but I’m focused on it. People who tow a lot don’t think about it as much as I do. The way my truck moves around while towing feels unnatural to me, but so does anything you aren’t used to. Keeping a wide trailer in my lane while going around curves takes plenty of focus for me, but with enough practice it becomes second nature. For me, I prefer a lighter, shorter trailer because of my personal comfort level, but I reduce it for that reason, not for any technical reason. I’m not too proud to say that, and would rather be relaxed. A bigger truck or a smaller trailer both provide the comfort level, but I can’t afford a bigger truck, and don’t know how anybody can at today’s prices. So in short, you can tow what your numbers say you can tow, it’s not open for debate. But it’s ok to consider your own comfort level. If the numbers work and you’re comfortable, do it. This nonsense about 1/2 tons shouldn’t tow over 6k is horseshit. That number is based on nothing. If your 1/2 ton can tow 11,200 lbs it can tow 11,200 lbs, that’s the number. Then you consider payload and tongue and work through those numbers, but the numbers are the numbers. You reduce from there for your own comfort level, but don’t adhere to arbitrary numbers somebody else laid out, the engineers are the only place numbers should come from, as with anything else. Too much subjectivity in this stuff. Subjectivity and numbers don’t belong side by side.

[@zweg1321]

Wow I’m not impressed I was a trucker for 40 years Sometimes you are on track You lost me when it was stated your speed pulling the box trailer I don’t care your vehicle The biggest thing when towing is DONT OUT DRIVE your capability One mistake and someone dies

[@jdkirane7990]

My uncle tows a trailer just like that with his 2013 F150 with a 5.0 v8 all the time. It's his snowmobile trailer and he takes it everywhere from Illinois to Minnesota.

[@55afishead]

Hey this David Van Voris guy pretty much does and did everything wrong in this video. Really does give all us out there a bad name. J.D. just because you follow him doesn't mean you have to use his video. Not all collaborations are successful. You should have watched his video and made the decision not to use it. It's not too late to delete it.

[@dedalliance1]

Well I didn't really learn very much.

[@alexs3187]

With school or life in general? Haha sorry couldn’t resist 😂

[@danielc5205]

Pulling a enclosed trailer at 80 m.p.h isn't ideal for any truck. Plus, if that trailer has ST tires, the ST tires are only rated for 62 m.p.h, 55 m.p.h when loaded to capacity.

[@DavidVanVoris]

Daniel C radials

[@bransonbrown5060]

Daniel C I’ve pulled this trailer with my corvette in it at 95mph for 350 miles without a hiccup

[@danielc5205]

@@bransonbrown5060 Industry standards dictate tires with the ST designation are speed rated to 65 MPH (104 km/h) under normal inflation and load conditions.-TireRack.com

[@hawkdaddy64]

That size trailer needs to have trailer brakes in use. This is a video that shows you how not to do it.

[@captsam54]

lol, no Firestone Ride Rite Airbags, or Tekonsha P3 Brake controller that I have in my TUNDRA... 4 wheel drive but I added the rear anti sway bar.. and it has towed everything just fine.. (I work at a RV/Trailer Center).. 80 miles an hour is pointless.. I watch these yahoos going down the road towing a 5th wheel or big enclosed at those speeds (w/ sag) and wonder how they get away with it.. and also try to stay away from them.. just in case Murphy catches up ..

[@Sig721Tau]

Oh, Murphy will eventually catch up with these idiots.

[@joelwingate7994]

As a professional driver this is the kind of uneducated people driving around me that scare me. They have no idea what there doing but because it's working they will continue to do it. I just hope it does not cause cause a major pile up when they lose control of the truck going 80 in cross winds. Or fail to be able to stop in a emergency situation since he has no trailer brakes.

[@DavidVanVoris]

Joel Wingate the point was to show it could pass at speed if it needed not that it was normal

[@MichaelSmith-kr9qw]

Not knocking you or your profession but the same can be said about people in the OTR industry as well. How many times have you seen OTR drivers driving to fast for the conditions out here in Texas I have seen it multiple times where OTR drivers are driving to fast for the conditions as well.

[@Sig721Tau]

@@DavidVanVoris That point has already been made and demonstrated in countless KZbin videos. Rear coil springs?

[@bret9741]

We live in a time where we are spoilt rotten with capability and safety. I’ve been towing longer than most everyone reading this has been alive. I grew up when WW1 and WW2 veterans were still teaching elementary and high school classes. My first pickup was a 1965 Chevy 1500 2WD long bed step side. I grew up on a very large ranch in the Western US. The ranch had a mix of trucks. I found myself driving a 1945 1.5 ton truck, a 1958 Dodge 3/4 Ton pickup, later a 1967 Ford F-250 and 1979 Ford F-350 Crew Cab. We used these trucks to pull 2, 4, and 6 horse trailers. These trailers were steel and heavy empty. Truthfully the 6 horse trailer probably weighed about 15000 with horses. But we often carried bulls, and I’m guessing the load would have been closer to 18000 lbs. We pulled these trailers with every truck we had……. Blow outs, delaminating tires were a frequent event. We were at 4500-9000 ft elevation and we just made things work. Today, there isn’t a 1/2 ton truck that doesn’t outperform the 3/4 and 1 ton trucks I grew up with.

[@hdpptowing5736]

These types of comments of "for a half ton", are the exact types of comments that I completely ignored when I purchased my F-150 HDPP to tow my Laredo 330RL (37ft 8,400lb dry/9,800lbs wet). There was no way would I was going to let such bias and corrupt perspectives influence my decisions, so I relied on Ford's specs and the experiences of other HDPP owners towing long and heavy trailers. I'm glad I did, because my truck tows and handle my trailer very well. I can personally tell you of the limitations of towing such a long and heavy trailer with such a light truck, and semis passing in any direction is a non issue. Of course you can't tow at the same speed in high gusty wind as a heavier tow vehicle, but 30 mph wind gusts only requires both hands on the wheel and more concentrations, and is stable enough, but I've never been scared or blown around, and reducing speed behind all the other semis and RVs aren't such a big deal, and I'm not trying to pass either. The vast majority of all towing vehicles are going to slow down in high windy conditions. That video would have offered zero value in helping my select a tow vehicle, and it didn't take me too long to understand the limitations of towing long and heavy with such a light tow vehicle, so my real world experiences trumps anything this guy is saying. P.S.: The added benefit of the HDPP in other non towing situations far outweighed the downsides of towing versus 3/4 or 1 ton, regardless of simular pricing, so a HD vehicle was a non starting for this application...I needed more than a one trick pony.

[@poacheddeer]

HDPP towing _ I have a 2014 f150 supercab 8 ft bed with the 8200lb gvwr . I was wondering what your thoughts were for towing a 6x10 or 6x12 dump trailer, with landscaping materials in it? I have towed about 4000 lbs enclosed trailer but never anything like 8-9000 lbs. ford says it’ll pull 10000 in owners manual.

[@randybryant9936]

I like the real world review it makes it seem more accurate

[@thomasronayne4805]

EXCELLENT VIDEO ! Answered all questions i had on trailers that can be safely hauled by a half ton pickup(ram) that i will be purchasing later this year.

[@ProMediaLLC]

Then you asked the wrong questions.

[@rtmdlawncare5774]

Using a nice f 250 6.2 gasser - enclosed trailers and wind are still a problem on highways. I keep it much slower on the windy days doing highway travel. My friend f250 has brake controller installed and double axle brakes on trailer...... stopping isn’t the problem. Away with wind can get you killed. My humble 2 cents.

[@chakagillis]

80 mph towing a trailer. wow. my state, if caught you'd be getting cuffed and stuffed

[@e.a.r.9155]

San Diego County here we go from Sea level, up over 6000' Mountains, down into the Desert n back.. I Tow a 26' Travel trailer (6500lbs. loaded) With a 19' Ram1500 'Classic' Crew cab, 4x4, 5.7Hemi, With 3.21gears..!👈 I got 2"Fox full strut Leveling kit, Timbrens in rear, 35x12.50 "F" rated Nitto Ridge Grapplers, w/ a reset Weight Distribution hitch & sway bar..., No Prob..! The Truck Does Work up the Grades.. but was no prob. *Wouldn't recommend for full-timers or constant trips.. either bigger truck or lower gearing tho 👍

[@Sig721Tau]

Where do I start? First, leveling kits are purely cosmetic and offer no protection for towing. Second, off-road tires are just that...for off-road conditions. Not for serious towing. Third, if you're serious about towing then, you shouldn't have bought a crew cab truck with 4x4 drivetrain.

[@e.a.r.9155]

@@Sig721Tau that's the whole point genius.. ha. A truck Not purposed to tow regularly.. but can be done No Prob if you Do..! And in San Diego County when u have to Tow from Beaches, Roads, Highways, Over the Mountains through Snow, down into San Diego Deserts, Trails, Dirt n Mud and back... You Need good All Terrains that can do that all while handling the load at the same time.. whats not to love about that..?!!

[@cashblackmon]

I felt the consequences of towing a 27ft 7800lbs travel trailer behind my GMC Yukon Xl a few days ago. I was going about 60mph(slow in Texas but to minimize sway) and a semi started to merge in my lane. It surprised me and I jerked the wheel to get over to not get hit and my trailer and SUV were almost at a 90-degree angle swerving all over the road with sway bars on. In the SUV's that have a trailer package on them, the trailer brake is on the left of the steering wheel instead of the right. So I was swerving all over the road because I was trying not to hit anybody but also couldn't find the trailer brake button.

[@lobbyrobby]

I drove 550 miles to pick up a grain cleaner in my 2011 f150 5.0. I had no idea how much it weighed but obviously more than I would've thought. Plus it was not aerodynamic at all. I made it home but my pickup wasn't happy. I had to put it in manual, hold 4th gear, 3,200 rpm and pedal to floor up any tiny hill.

[@DavidVanVoris]

Thanks JD!

[@BigTruckBigRV]

Thank you!

[@GetSocialButterfly]

Thank you guys so much! I have a Ram 1500, I think I can tow 10,000 lbs. if you told me I couldn’t tow that much - I wouldn’t believe it. After watching David’s video, the 3/4 ton is the way to go if towing every day. Thanks guys.

[@bryanmesser7098]

Wow David never knew you were here

[@DavidVanVoris]

Bryan Messer what’s up Bryan lol

[@bladedspokes]

Safe rule of thumb... use a WD hitch any time the towed load exceeds 50% of the TV weight.

[@powderriver2424]

Your using a certified scale typically “Cat” scales that a brand and universal across the USA. Here’s a tip Loves is a truck stop chain, not a gas station, Rand McNally sells a paper atlas for Trucking they are not expensive what they have inside is a very detailed explanation of weight ratings how understand combined vehicle weights etc. how to weigh how to determine axle weights and the simple math formula for doing so. If your traveling have one of these in your vehicle it’s is truly a great resource to have because their is resources for fuel stops repair facilities and quick mileage calculators to major cities. Great to have when technology fails. It’s nice to see a young generation relearn what is old timers already know we all need to be safe out on the roads.

[@akbychoice]

Even at 39,000 lbs my F 450 pulling a38’ goose neck knows when it passes or is passed by a semi.

[@jshapiro34]

A 18wheeler with 40k trailer on shoulder knows when a car passes it.......same said driving wind ECT that's why you always have a sway bar and brakes if trailer is heavier than towing vehicle

[@babranson1]

I had a friend towed a 16000 lb Travel Supreme between Kansas and Arizona with a half ton. I told him he was nuts! He couldn’t figure out why he shelled out three rear ends in 75,000 miles.

[@brianrobertson3545]

For a very cheap add on you can get the tow package on your ram... mine has the suspension, trailer brakes, etc...80mph are you nuts?

[@Sig721Tau]

Not too mention, that this tool opted for rear coil spring suspension over traditional leaf springs.

[@stephencooper4987]

I might be wrong, but after reading the comments I get the feeling that a lot of those folks are trying to defend themselves without saying so. Most of the commentors probably have 1/2 ton trucks and are pulling the wrong way themselves. I'm retired and as a owner/operator for 36 years, I feel anyone that tows ANY trailer faster than 65 mph is asking for trouble. I've heard the famous last words (been doing this for years and never had a problem) many times.

[@THETOPGLOCK]

Agreed. I’ll be the first to admit I don’t have enough truck. I pull a 27’ 6800# TT with a crew cab Fx4 F150. In most cases I do not have a pleasant towing experience. When the budget allows I’ll be moving up to a real truck.

[@serenity1982]

something some people dont know is that if you are in a accident and you are over your trucks GVW some insurance companies wont pay the claim and law enforcement could issue a citation as well. just more reason to buy a little more truck than you need if tow close or over your GVW

[@blagojevichisadem]

A couple things. It appears that the truck is doing a good job based on the windy conditions and the drivers statements. Any sway could probably be eliminated by increasing tongue weight although I'm very surprised by the sag. I used to tow a 5k 26ft TT with no need for WD. Always towed great and very stable. The factory helper springs were quite sufficient. Clearly a 250 is not required for a trailer like this. Trailer list needs to be setup properly. In this case it looks like more tongue weight and a WD hitch. Airbags would help too.

[@muddpuppy07]

I would have to disagree about getting the air springs. For ball hitch applications a weight distribution hitch would be the best option to level the set up back out. Air springs in a ball hitch application will put more weight on the rear axle and take weight off the front axle. Air springs are designed for loads that go inside the bed above the axle, 5th whells or goosenecks and general need usage.

[@DavidVanVoris]

Bryan Cole agreed I need one

[@k.r.v.4219]

Hello David, I’ve texted BTBRV a number of times in the past with info from my own towing experiences. The latest being my small Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup 16FQ, that has a GVWR Of 3,990 lbs, with a 2016 Colorado Ext Cab Z71,4x4, V6, that actually rated at 7,000 lbs as equipped. I have to say after towing heavier flat beds and boats a Travel Trailer does present a difference while towing. But the Colorado does a great job without a equalizer hitch or sway control with either of trailers I’ve towed, only when the flatbed was loaded to over 5,500 gvw was there a need for the equalizer. As far as power and brakes? No problem at all! Even mileage is sort of a surprise towing and empty, from 15 mph towing to as high as 26 mpg at a steady 70 mph, but a 25 mile best of 32 mpg at a steady 45 mph over The Overseas Roadway, down in the Keys at night with no traffic and the cruise control set.

[@traceystock7352]

The biggest danger with pick ups this big pulling extra long trailers is that the drivers think they are driving a minivan after a while. Unlike a professional who might give other drivers some lack, your average horse trailer pulling pick up driver thinks oncoming traffic on back country roads can slim down as they race around a blind curve with their long trailer cutting into the oncoming traffic lane. I know from experience. The same truck with trailer has been trying to clip my hood and quarter panel for a year now and succeeded today. Despite the fact that his trailer was three feet into my lane, he blamed me, yelling that I turned into his vehicle and that "I had plenty of room." I of course had little time to react. All I could do was stop and hold my breath waiting for impact. A professional truck driver will usually slow down for a curve wanting to avoid contact with oncoming traffic that just might be coming around the curve - a move that usually allows for a slow negotiation of a tight curve by two passing vehicles. I think to pull an extra long trailer with a larger pick up truck a driver should have to take a course in negotiating curves and turns. Having a horse and a cool hat isn't a guarantee that they can drive what they buy. It's not the public's responsibility to avoid your fast moving behemoth on short notice in our own lane.

[@southernshooter]

Not to mention the speed rating of the trailer tires. Probably 55-65 top speed rating.

[@glenncooper1893]

How come nobody ever talks about the Importance of a Rear sway bar.

[@cyborg2048]

That and the importance of gear ratios. This video does mention the trucks gear ratio. Even most HD trucks you have to option for a camper package to get a rear sway bar.

[@DanielGarcia-zz9eg]

My question would be Can the air ride system on the RAM handle the weight of towing. To me a air ride on the RAM is built for comfort, not heavy duty towing . Just saying, those air shocks are not cheap. Might be looking at $1,000 each if they bust

[@ProMediaLLC]

Great review...”Here, hold my beer”

[@kylepokorski6045]

One problem is I can tell you if you tow more than 1 or twice a year the 8speed trans does not like it I tow my boat 22ft open bow bayliner I tow between 12-20 times a summer 260 miles each way and before I got my one ton I had a 2014 ram Laramie 4x4 1500 quad cab with a max tow rating of 10450lbs it's not extremely hilly between California and arizona and at 2 years old with 85k miles I developed a trans slip bench time to tear in and diagnose that trans itself is 3500 bucks of you want to tow and but a 5x10 trailer or seadoo get at least a 3/4 ton

[@bigtrucklittlerv7969]

2019 1500 GVWR is 6,900lbs. 5,680lbs. Less than 1,300lbs. payload left. No WD hitch means too much weight off the front axle.

[@myleshansel7950]

Well he might have a popular channel but not interested in his view's or recklessness towing 80mph in high winds. Maybe I missed the point but I like you're video's not someone else.

[@scottthielen189]

What was the gas milage meter doing when you were pulling that trailer? I had that truck with 3.21 gears pulling a 1900 lbs enclosed trailer. 7 mpg.

[@sandygibson4201]

It’s better to be safe than sorry. Towing a heavy load with a 1/2 ton leaves no room for error.

[@Марко13]

Everyone who tows any heavy trailer should be using a weight distribution system, I have one and I can say I would never tow without it.

[@mrmpostr]

You know, I find the cars flying past me when towing cause more issues than the semis. I pull with a 20 limited and air suspension 3.92 and a 24 haulmark transport.

[@adamwestbrook4154]

Manufacturers put these huge numbers of tow capacity and people believe that can hook up to a 32’ RV bumper pull and get on the interstate and drive 75 mph. My personal belief is a 1/2 ton truck is designed to pull a 5x8 single axel 4-wheeler trailer with a 4-wheeler and some occasional Home Depot runs.

[@bigp20019]

Educate me I got a ram 2015 1500 Crew cab 4x4 with a 5.7 hemi and a 5.7 bed looking at the weight of the truck is 7000 lbs so is that a 1/2 ton or a 3/4 ton

[@MickPsyphon]

So, the question that begs to be asked is whether the new RAM 1500 trucks (which are rated at 12,500+ lbs towing capacity) can safely be used to haul an RV trailer weighing in at ~9,000 lbs, on an occasional long haul for a family vacation. Obviously, a half ton is unsuitable for regular usage of that level of hauling, but half ton owners don't use their trucks for work... just pleasure.

[@JB_WhoWork]

I agree with what David said, if you plan on hauling heavier loads more often, then a 3/4 and up truck is better. As you saw, a “empty” trailer had the truck squatting... Anyone have a rough idea what tongue weight would be on that size trailer? My fifth wheel has a pin weight at about 2100# and my RAM 2500 just levels out so I doubt this trailer would even drop my truck no more then 1”.

[@wsmcook]

Travel trailers have much lower tongue weights than 5th wheels, except for some toy haulers.

[@justYouJesus1God]

My husband is in Montana, I bought a 24 foot enclosed cargo trailer. Can we pack it up full and tow it good and safe with a 1996 Chevy Silverado 3500, it has 119,000 miles. We used to put a 5th wheel 31 foot, but this worries me on a ball hitch. Did we make a mistake. We are moving to 900 miles from CA in June. Someone please answer my question, closing next month and we have to get out of here.

[@davva360]

Terrible driving by the guy pulling the trailer. 80mph is way too fast for ANY trailer even if the speed limit is 80. I would actually say this is an irresponsible video to post. Shows how to do everything wrong. Surprised to see it on such a good channel.

[@trulyhappy8855]

Great video! Nothing compares to the real world demonstrations 😊

[@jonnyg44]

Can and should are two very different things

[@David-im1fp]

What is the best towing vehicle for GD 23bhe? 5325 lbs dry, gvwr 6995 lbs, hitch weight 504 lbs. Hope to have good mpg for both towing and daily driving. Thanks.

[@amccauley5033]

No trailer brakes? Sounds safe to me. So many people tow this way and think its fine.

[@Matdetroit]

Who orders a 3.92 with no trailer brake control? For better acceleration?

[@johannb4393]

How to tow an empty trailer? WOW.

[@dannydanielgonzalez5413]

I have a 2019 RAM 1500 can I tow a 8.5x28 enclosed trailer without airbags? The trailer is about 5600 lbs . maybe I'll buy (5000 airbags) but I don't know if I still need it. I want to save some 💰 😀 tank you

[@stacyreid5077]

Glad you shared this maybe with him saying it's not meant carry a lot and showing how bad his truck is sagging with nothing but a empty trailer. I can only imagine if he had put a car in it and set it up to it to a car show with a generator and all cleaning supplies it would sag lots more

[@DavidVanVoris]

Stacy Reid yes it needs air ride

[@stacyreid5077]

David Van Voris plus maybe some over load coilover shocks

[@pnkflyd61]

While I appreciate the collaboration, I feel like the test didn't tell me very much. Who drives 80 when pulling a 25 ft trailer? Really? So my question would be how would a 16 ft enclosed trailer, loaded with 4000 lbs do? Trailer brakes are a no-brainer as well. Just don't feel like this was a real-world test.

[@aneirins7085]

Good video, need to wear a seatbelt tho

[@collinhopper7542]

And sit in a proper driving position and get a trailer brake controller.

[@DH-hp7nv]

Btbrv, good real world demonsration. I have never watched his videos in particular, but i have watched his brother I believe. His brother does more car videos.

[@jimwil6972]

I pull a 35’ travel trailer that is 9200lbs loaded and 2 dirt bikes at 500lbs in bed of truck. With the same 1500 ram it does fine. 10000lbs is nothing for a 1500.

[@rlpatton1970]

I wish I only towed on relatively flat and at sea level roads vs where I live at 8000 feet in Colorado... not really the same

[@electricalconcepts7177]

Thank you for this video I was looking for a place to weigh my 27 foot boat and trailer and was not aware you could use the commercial scales at a truck stop

[@BigHartAtack]

The problem with rams is the low payload as a result of rear coils. Crew cab Laramie with bells and whistles may not even be 1000 pound payload capacity. You have 3 adults say 500 combined. With that hitch weight you are most certaily illegally towing. I see the same problem in the 2500. Opt for a loaded crew with the cummins and payload drops lower than some half tons. Why make a truck that can pull but can't carry.

[@okcmoparguy724]

Not true with the new 2019 DT body style, class competitive in payload and towing.

[@tonygondek550]

Talking about towing safety, NOT wearing a seatbelt 🤦🏻‍♂️ #irony

[@hunterloy8585]

4,500 pound car must be a challenger 😂😂

[@thirddraft5318]

There are all kinds of reasons why you should remove this video from your channel. This guy is towing at 80mph without a trailer break, its windy, he is passing big rigs, the truck is sagging in the rear (light steering), no weight distributing hitch, no sway control, he is not wearing a seatbelt, WTF. Dude should stick to car reviews if that's his thing.

[@timesup6386]

Wow, this is Fucked up. He is a Millennial though

[@ProMediaLLC]

Oh well, it was something to do while knocking back a six pack.

[@greghawkins2712]

We hauled a 28’ closed in trailer empty , could not safety go any faster than 55mph with dodge rebel with air bag system

[@darrinsteven7002]

A brake controller should have been installed before hooking up any trailer. Equaliser bars are a must have. 80 miles an hour... ok

[@bobbyhitt6463]

Thanks for the "how not to do it" video. Borderline reckless. I just hope for someone just finding your page that this isn't the first video they watch. The disclaimer should be in the description. That being said, love your page!

[@BigTruckBigRV]

I agree for the most part. Think about this though, his truck is rated to ~10k lbs. He was towing a 24' empty trailer weighting 3,800lbs (about as much as a small rPod travel trailer). Actually it was even below the Texas GVW to require a trailer brake controller (4500lbs) Most people wouldn't imagine needing a WDH or Brake controller for such a light weight trailer. This video was more to explain why 1/2 tons just arnt supposed to tow big trailers.

[@muddpuppy07]

@@BigTruckBigRV think that is getting lost in the video.

[@wsmcook]

I think with the right gear a half ton would have no problem pulling such a load. The point you were trying to emphasize definitely didn't come across as intended. The speed alone is I think the biggest problem, even more than the lack of a break controller, (debatable, I know)

[@AffiliatedGroup]

A lot of BTBRV videos seem to bash 1500 trucks and how they shouldn’t be used. No videos about what they CAN tow.....

[@davidmatt904]

At least 30% of rv towers are waiting way under sized with their vehicle that's scary .

[@DanielGarcia-zz9eg]

80mph is too fast for a pickup. I just keep it between 60 and 70mph depending on road conditions . Dont be over working the engine. When towing , thier is no need for speed. Just need to know if the truck is Capable of towing and how much can it tow legal .

[@Matt-pj3ue]

Take it from a professional truck driver with over 30 years without an accident. Anybody pulling a trailer in the wind at 80 mph is risking there life and all the innocent people around them. Ever go passed an accident with a truck and a trailer wonder how that happened, well now you know.

[@bryanthornton6787]

So I need a truck that weighs more than the trailer?

[@thewalkindude7716]

Hands down, the best truck and trailer channel on KZbin. I continue to really enjoy your content.

[@D.Wilson2]

80 MPH?! 😬

[@dirkkight8249]

The tail wagging the dog

[@14escoleroi]

U think I can pull a 8x16 enclosed trailer with ease on a 2011 ram 1500? Would only have 2 mowers on it.

[@dannydanielgonzalez5413]

Do you have air bags lift on your truck?

[@MRALL4FUN]

David and his brother Kevin are some of my favorite KZbinrs. I’ve been following both of them for a couple of years. I know it’s just a matter of time before their channels really BLOW UP and the content is great!! GO CHECK THEM OUT!!

[@skeleguns10oooooo10]

I would use a GMC Sierra 3500 to tow tow a trailer THIS long than a half ton pickup truck

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!!

[@rotelfan2000]

meanwhile in Europe they pull campers 3x the size of their car with subcompact cars...lol

[@ricbailey170]

Are going to the HOUSTON RV show thru this Sunday?

[@yerwrng]

There's no reason to push the limits of braking, power , and handling by buying a 1/2 ton truck for a load better suited to a 3/4-1ton ... You bought the big trailer buy the right fucking truck .

[@TBrownRecords]

Cool video for 2019

[@mpsangha]

I'm a firm believer that a trailer's profile through the air is more important than the weight... Ie how it reacts to large crosswinds. I don't think any Half ton should be towing a large enclosed trailer for long distances.

[@Nirotix]

You can't say "everything is good, np" towing an empty 25' trailer in mild wind with no trailer brake. Air bags do nothing to equalize weight, just makes your back end look good. No offense, but that's just stupid. I have a 25' Jayco Jay Feather BH with a Blue OX 750lb weight/anti sway distribution hitch set up properly. On 9 links out, putting as much weight as I can to the rear of the trailer and family on board I'm sitting 100 lbs over rear axle max at scales, but truck and trailer are completely level. Weight distribution working well. Was out May long weekend driving in 50 km/hr gusts, 38 km/hr cross winds, even thou front tires were firmly planted towing 6700 lbs dry, probably sitting at 8300 lbs loaded with box empty other than a fold up table it was a bit hairy. Trailer brakes are a MUST!! You don't go pulling that sorta load without a trailer brake controller. Either way, looking at upgrading to a 1 ton and upgrading the trailer to a fifth wheel where I can put the weight where it belongs. Over the wheels. Then we can double tow the boat and probably will save fuel even double towing with a 1 ton diesel as apposed to a half ton gas just towing the trailer. Much safer too.