Real towing experiencing with SRW

norm wrote:


My tow vehicle is an 04 Cummins 2500 quad (mildly chipped) SB, SRW, with 19.5 tires/wheels and airbags.

I would appreciate hearing from "fivers" towing with a similar rig. Specifically, what "fiver" are you towing and what is/are your opinion/s, good and bad?

Fifth = 2006 Jayco Designer 31RKS.
Exterior length = 34'
Unloaded weight = 10,100
Hitch weight (dry) = 2300

Tow Vehicle = 2005 Dodge CTD, 1-T, Q-cab, Auto, SRW (single rear wheels).
Bone stock - ordered it with a 4:10 rear end. (not necessary!)

Had a 1-T Crew Cab Long Bed, SRW (6.9 Ferd Diesel) in the past.
Didn't want another long bed, no matter what brand.
No desire for a dually. (See "dually caveat" at end.)

Choice was partly based on a friend's *extensive* towing history with a 36' Alpenlite - with the same set up, except 04.5 CTD, a 3/4T and 3:73 RE gears. (he did add air bags).
(Still going strong - says his 48RE tranny might be getting tired).
He has towed (from Oregon) several times to Alaska, and all over the Western states - trouble free.

My set-up -and SRW- works just fine for me!..:C
Been (up and down) Loveland pass, Western states, no Alaska yet.

Duallys and drugs = Just say "NO"!..:W

BIL currently has *two* Chevy duallys (gasser & diesel) and regrets both, LOL!

But....Here's my "dually caveat"!:
*If* I was going to buy a really heavy 5th - tow hauler, or? -
I would go with a singled HDT.

Tow anything you can throw at it with power (and braking capability) to spare, as well as lots more cab comfort "options" than a "pickup" or MDT. Never touch the service brakes on downhill grades, almost the same dimensions as a dually pickup, will turn tighter when singled, etc.
Can be licensed as a MH in most states (Inc'l CA).
Cost? Less (used) than a new dually pickup.
(See Escapees HDT forum for more "gee whiz" stuff).

So there ya have the SRW saga (for me).

YMMV

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