How long a camper can I (should I) tow?
I have a new 2014 Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi (8 speed) with approximately 9000lbs tow capacity. Looking to buy a travel trailer and trying to understand what is a safe camper length for this vehicle. I would...
Forum Discussion
RinconVTR wrote:coolbreeze01 wrote:
Weight matters more than length.
I am not sure anyone picked up on this within 4 pages of tread, but this is one of the debates here.
I believe in the complete opposite. I could easily tow DOUBLE any given weight rating of any 1/2 ton truck out there more safely than pulling a very long enclosed trailer within all weight ratings. Any day, any time, any condition. (just look at what they use in the new SAE towing standard to gain a clue!)
In short, weight is NOT everything. Length (side profile) and frontal area (air resistance) is the biggest factor towing travel trailers comfortably, and controllably. These factors are absolutely NOT part of towing ratings today, be it new standard or old marketing fudge.
Don't be fooled thinking because you are within given ratings, all is well.
IF you look at Ford's towing guide. You will see that in fact frontal area is indeed figured into their towing capacities. Again. you will run out of weight before you run out of length.
