Adding a Hitch To The Trailer
Hey Guys newbie here, hope I found the right forum for my question. I've just put down a deposit on a 2018 Tracer 24DBS http://primetimerv.com/product-details.aspx?LineID=475&Image=24433&ModelI...
Forum Discussion
Wether you call it double towing, triple towing, or tandem towing, it is one of the consistent hot topics on this forum. Most here will warn you that you can't or shouldn't do it. And most have no 1st hand experience with it.
I on the other hand have been doing it mostly trouble free for close to 20 years.
For your specific question, I think it can be safely done. Here is what I would do/consider.
In regard to your trailer warranty, the only thing that the manufacture can void is the frame warranty. If that is a concern for you, might want to wait until you are out of warranty.
Have a qualified welder custom build a hitch. If you buy something off the shelf, be prepared to do lots of modifications.
Have that same welder reinforce the frame of the trailer at least up to the rear axles. My reinforcement goes up forward of the rear axles.
Regularly inspect the hitch to make sure it holds up. It will be under a LOT of strain.
More of the downside. Those that say the hitch/trailer/bike mount can cause trailer sway are right. I have a 5th wheel, and even on my old set up, I did experience it once. Not a good feeling. Make sure you test your tongue weight, and use a good weight distribution hitch. Even with this, the ride in your truck is going to suffer. That extra weight on the back is going to cause a lot of bouncing.
Expect more wear and tear on the rig. I had a weld brake on my boat trailer that I am sure was caused by towing tandem. I also had the original hitch on my 5er crack and need to be replaced.
Its not all roses to do what you are suggesting, but it is possible. I will agree that less weight on the back end would be better. would it be possible to put one bike on the back of the trailer, and one on a front hitch on the tow vehicle? Or haul the bikes on the truck?
Just other thoughts.
I on the other hand have been doing it mostly trouble free for close to 20 years.
For your specific question, I think it can be safely done. Here is what I would do/consider.
In regard to your trailer warranty, the only thing that the manufacture can void is the frame warranty. If that is a concern for you, might want to wait until you are out of warranty.
Have a qualified welder custom build a hitch. If you buy something off the shelf, be prepared to do lots of modifications.
Have that same welder reinforce the frame of the trailer at least up to the rear axles. My reinforcement goes up forward of the rear axles.
Regularly inspect the hitch to make sure it holds up. It will be under a LOT of strain.
More of the downside. Those that say the hitch/trailer/bike mount can cause trailer sway are right. I have a 5th wheel, and even on my old set up, I did experience it once. Not a good feeling. Make sure you test your tongue weight, and use a good weight distribution hitch. Even with this, the ride in your truck is going to suffer. That extra weight on the back is going to cause a lot of bouncing.
Expect more wear and tear on the rig. I had a weld brake on my boat trailer that I am sure was caused by towing tandem. I also had the original hitch on my 5er crack and need to be replaced.
Its not all roses to do what you are suggesting, but it is possible. I will agree that less weight on the back end would be better. would it be possible to put one bike on the back of the trailer, and one on a front hitch on the tow vehicle? Or haul the bikes on the truck?
Just other thoughts.
