JerseyJeff wrote:
First post. I'll begin by saying what a great site! I have to thank you guys already because the information here may have just saved me from making a first timers mistake.
We're looking to get into RV'ing and recently went to a show. The wife and I really liked the Avenger 26BH and were ready to move forward with the deal. We have a 2007 V8 Explorer Limited that we assumed would make a good tow vehicle as it's rated to 7400 towing. However, after much reading here, I'm thinking that we should back out of the deal. It would appear that the gross vehicle weight and short wheel base of the Explorer will not safely work out for us even with WD, brake controller & stabilizer added. I don't think this TV/TT match up. I've put the spec's below for both. I would love any comments regarding the possible set up.
Avenger 26bh
DRY WEIGHT: 4,850 LBS
DRY HITCH WEIGHT: 580 LBS
Carrying Capacity 2,692 lbs
Hitch - 580 lbs
Length – 28’11” overall (tongue to rear TT fender)
2007 Explorer:
Curb Weight - Front (lbs) 2553
Gross Axle Wt Rating - Front (lbs) 2960
Gross Combined Wt Rating (lbs) 8500
Curb Weight - Rear (lbs) 2153
Gross Axle Wt Rating - Rear (lbs) 3400
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Cap (lbs) 6280
Wheelbase (in) 113.7
Length, Overall w/rear bumper (in) 193.4
Tongue Weight Max Trailer Weight Max
740 7400 (With WD)
I have looked into getting a more appropriate dedicated tow vehicle like maybe an expedition or suburban. This added cost will mean that we have to put this on hold for now, but I'm thinking its the right decision. Thoughts?
Do yourself at least ONE big favor... DO NOT use"dry weight" and "dry hitch weight"....it's a joke, no one tows a TT empty of dry...you'll have pot's, pans, clothes, dry good's, full propane tanks, battery, and on and on in your TT when you go camping.....It would behoove you to use the trailers GVW and go from there....Remember your trucks cargo carrying capacity includes full tank of fuel, family, pet's, and anything else you carry in it when you got towing.....
Don't know if you'll be ok or not...guess best thing to do is hook up and go and you'll have your answer....but again, ANYTIME you purchase a TT or 5er, PLEASE do yourself a favor and totally ignore the empty weight and dry or empty tongue weight, it really is nothing more than a joke to fool someone into believing they just might not tow with anything in their rv and that just isn't the fact.....make sure you have the right tow vehicle for what you're going to be towing....believe me, in the long run you'll be a whole lot happier with the towing experience...
