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
As it has been pointed out, your payload IS your limiting factor. I'm not going to get into your numbers but will try to help.
With that said, you will not notice much difference between a 28' and 31' TT if they are comparable weights and properly set up. How the TT is carrying the weight does affect how it tows.
When you look at TT numbers notice the dry weight to tongue weight ratio. You can have two TTs with the same dry weight but one can have more tongue weight. divide tongue weight by dry weight, TW/DW. The lower the number the better for you.
Second, notice where you will pack stuff in the TT. Anything placed in front of the TT axles will add to tongue weight. Anything placed behind axles will reduce tongue weight. Don't try to reduce tongue weight too much by packing because without a reasonable amount IT WILL SWAY and go squirrely. A rear bedroom with under bed storage and closets will work better for you than a front bedroom. Rear or mid pass through storage rather than front pass through.
Got the idea? Put as much weight over or behind the axles within reason. If it's unstable move some weight forward.
Air bags or Timbrens will help stabilize the truck. My opinion is Timbrens do a better job with stability, airbags are better for sag adjustment and ride.
You may not get your ideal floor plan using this truck but you can make it work if you consider and address the issues before you purchase a TT. The right TT will work.
I know you came here asking how long is too long but other more important concerns came to the surface. Your getting good advice.
Good Luck
With that said, you will not notice much difference between a 28' and 31' TT if they are comparable weights and properly set up. How the TT is carrying the weight does affect how it tows.
When you look at TT numbers notice the dry weight to tongue weight ratio. You can have two TTs with the same dry weight but one can have more tongue weight. divide tongue weight by dry weight, TW/DW. The lower the number the better for you.
Second, notice where you will pack stuff in the TT. Anything placed in front of the TT axles will add to tongue weight. Anything placed behind axles will reduce tongue weight. Don't try to reduce tongue weight too much by packing because without a reasonable amount IT WILL SWAY and go squirrely. A rear bedroom with under bed storage and closets will work better for you than a front bedroom. Rear or mid pass through storage rather than front pass through.
Got the idea? Put as much weight over or behind the axles within reason. If it's unstable move some weight forward.
Air bags or Timbrens will help stabilize the truck. My opinion is Timbrens do a better job with stability, airbags are better for sag adjustment and ride.
You may not get your ideal floor plan using this truck but you can make it work if you consider and address the issues before you purchase a TT. The right TT will work.
I know you came here asking how long is too long but other more important concerns came to the surface. Your getting good advice.
Good Luck
