First RV - needing some sound advice please
Hello, I am new to this forum and new to RV'ing (as in I dont have one yet) I am looking to purchase an RV. More specifically a camper trailer. I plan to haul this on my 2008 Ford Escape 3.0 V...
Forum Discussion
I did some research for you, and here's what I found. From the 2008 Trailer Life Towing Guide, your Ford Escape has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Here's a picture from the guide:
When you purchase a trailer, make sure that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating does not exceed 3,500#.
The second thing you need to consider is the payload or weight carrying capability of your Escape. Your Escape should have a placard on the driver's door post that looks like this:
From the example above, that vehicle should not have more than 891 pounds placed on it. That means that the weight of the trailer hitch, cargo, and occupants should not exceed 891 pounds.
If you were to purchase a 3,500# trailer when fully loaded, your hitch would weigh somewhere around 350 to 420 pounds, which is 10-12% of the trailer's weight. You need to make sure that the weight of your Escape's occupants, cargo and trailer hitch do not exceed the payload capacity as stated on your tire placard.
Following these guidelines will keep you and your family safe, minimize wear and tear on your escape, and make your towing much more enjoyable.
Happy trails!
Jim
When you purchase a trailer, make sure that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating does not exceed 3,500#.
The second thing you need to consider is the payload or weight carrying capability of your Escape. Your Escape should have a placard on the driver's door post that looks like this:
From the example above, that vehicle should not have more than 891 pounds placed on it. That means that the weight of the trailer hitch, cargo, and occupants should not exceed 891 pounds.
If you were to purchase a 3,500# trailer when fully loaded, your hitch would weigh somewhere around 350 to 420 pounds, which is 10-12% of the trailer's weight. You need to make sure that the weight of your Escape's occupants, cargo and trailer hitch do not exceed the payload capacity as stated on your tire placard.
Following these guidelines will keep you and your family safe, minimize wear and tear on your escape, and make your towing much more enjoyable.
Happy trails!
Jim
