Towing 33', 7500 GVWR trailer with 1/2 ton truck.
Conclusion: NOT FUN. Do-able, but NOT FUN. Two hands on the wheel at all times.
The Truck
2016 Dodge Ram 1500
5.7L V8 gas engine
8-speed auto transmission, 3.92 final drive
1,630 lbs. payload capacity
10,300 lbs. towing capacity
The Trailer
2016 Jayco 2867 BHSW
33'5" overall length
7500 lbs. GVWR
Equalizer 4-way hitch
*Engine more than capable.
*Transmission probably won't last long. Shift logic already locking into tow/haul mode even without the trailer attached.
*Payload capacity sorely lacking. I put Timbrens on the back and they help a lot. I couldn't imagine towing without some kind of spring/helper in the back. The 1/2 ton is sprung for comfort and any weight immediately maxes out the rear springs.
*I probably will have to adjust the WD hitch when I get more time (combined rig is VERY sensitive to WD hitch adjustments, I'm on my 4th adjustment setting).
*Brakes adequate. ABS kicks in during emergency braking so braking power isn't the limitation.
The rig is very, very sensitive to passing vehicles and crosswinds. Not a problem to keep it within the lane markers, but requires constant small steering corrections if there are passing vehicles or cross winds. Steers straight and true with no sway motion in a straight line.
Not difficult to keep in line, but it requires constant vigilance. Not a relaxing drive, but not scary either.
Have had to make one emergency brake/swerve maneuver when someone cut me off trying to get on the same off ramp at the same time. Truck and trailer tires all squealing. Was able to bring rig back in line at the adjacent lane with no sway.
I would rather have a 3/4 or 1 ton truck, but Chrysler was willing to lease me this truck for $11.50/day. It works, but I couldn't imagine towing anything heavier (or closer to the 10,300 lbs. max tow limit).
The Truck
2016 Dodge Ram 1500
5.7L V8 gas engine
8-speed auto transmission, 3.92 final drive
1,630 lbs. payload capacity
10,300 lbs. towing capacity
The Trailer
2016 Jayco 2867 BHSW
33'5" overall length
7500 lbs. GVWR
Equalizer 4-way hitch
*Engine more than capable.
*Transmission probably won't last long. Shift logic already locking into tow/haul mode even without the trailer attached.
*Payload capacity sorely lacking. I put Timbrens on the back and they help a lot. I couldn't imagine towing without some kind of spring/helper in the back. The 1/2 ton is sprung for comfort and any weight immediately maxes out the rear springs.
*I probably will have to adjust the WD hitch when I get more time (combined rig is VERY sensitive to WD hitch adjustments, I'm on my 4th adjustment setting).
*Brakes adequate. ABS kicks in during emergency braking so braking power isn't the limitation.
The rig is very, very sensitive to passing vehicles and crosswinds. Not a problem to keep it within the lane markers, but requires constant small steering corrections if there are passing vehicles or cross winds. Steers straight and true with no sway motion in a straight line.
Not difficult to keep in line, but it requires constant vigilance. Not a relaxing drive, but not scary either.
Have had to make one emergency brake/swerve maneuver when someone cut me off trying to get on the same off ramp at the same time. Truck and trailer tires all squealing. Was able to bring rig back in line at the adjacent lane with no sway.
I would rather have a 3/4 or 1 ton truck, but Chrysler was willing to lease me this truck for $11.50/day. It works, but I couldn't imagine towing anything heavier (or closer to the 10,300 lbs. max tow limit).
