GM GVWR/GCWR chassis/powertrain questions
Starting to do my research here, but it seems very few people ask the questions that I do. I'm indifferent to class A vs class C, I'm after something no bigger than 25' and I'm sure either can accomod...
Forum Discussion
I'd definitely go with a ton-and-a-half chassis - the Ford E450 or Chevy 4500. I don't know about the Chevy 4500 - but with the Ford E450 (over the E350) you get larger brake swept areas, increased transmission cooling, anti-sway bars both front and rear stock, lower rear differential gearing, wider rear track for improved lateral stability, etc..
I don't know about the Chevy engines used in their 4500, but the Ford V10 will tow just fine - no diesel required whether or not you can even get it.
I have a Ford E450 underneath a 24 foot Class C and it goes like a scared rabbit uphill and everywhere else - drives like a van with a real truck chassis doing it. From 2005 onwards Ford uses a 5-speed (6 speeds internally) computer controlled TorqueShift transmission that is superb - especially with it's electrically switched TOW/HAUL mode. With it's TOW/HAUL mode engaged, you get automatic downshift gear braking on downhill grades and when braking coming up to stop lights.
I don't know about the Chevy engines used in their 4500, but the Ford V10 will tow just fine - no diesel required whether or not you can even get it.
I have a Ford E450 underneath a 24 foot Class C and it goes like a scared rabbit uphill and everywhere else - drives like a van with a real truck chassis doing it. From 2005 onwards Ford uses a 5-speed (6 speeds internally) computer controlled TorqueShift transmission that is superb - especially with it's electrically switched TOW/HAUL mode. With it's TOW/HAUL mode engaged, you get automatic downshift gear braking on downhill grades and when braking coming up to stop lights.
