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rwj146's avatar
rwj146
Explorer
Jun 07, 2017

Been away awhile and bought a small trailer

I sort of gave up the forum a year or so ago when my health went south. Health is still iffy, but I'm going out fighting.


I bought a 2001 GMC with a 4.8 V-8 and an 8 ft bed. This is the absolute base model. The only option was air conditioning. I got the 8 ft bed because I had to sell my motorcycle, scar tissue was making it difficult to get on or off and I didn't feel confident anymore, so I traded for a Polaris ATV. An Ace single seat.

I bought a 1988 Terry 18' trailer, about 2800 lb's, small but room for my cat and me.

According to my calculations I am well within limits but I am curious if anyone would recommend torqlift or Timbrens?

I have an Equalizer hitch with single sway control and it seems okay.

If anyone has any suggestions I would appreciate them.
  • Rumtan's avatar
    Rumtan
    Explorer
    Jun 07, 2017
    Camping and quadding......you are on the road to recovery my friend.....safe travels and enjoy the ride.
  • RedRocket204's avatar
    RedRocket204
    Explorer
    Jun 07, 2017
    Very cool rwj146!

    I many times wish I had a smaller trailer or a truck camper to access more locations.

    Don't want to alarm you but make sure and check if your Polaris is under a recall right now. You didn't mention the model or year so just a general safety check as there have been a fair amount of Polaris recalls concerning fire dangers. Hopefully, you are already aware and your ACE is not under recall.

    Be safe and enjoy your new toy!
  • nypatnva's avatar
    nypatnva
    Explorer
    Jun 07, 2017
    I have basically the same set up. so you're good to go. Welcome back.
  • TurnThePage's avatar
    TurnThePage
    Explorer
    Jun 07, 2017
    I think you are on the right track. Assuming that truck has leaf springs, I would probably opt for an add a leaf or as you already alluded stableload if it's an option.
  • LIKE2BUILD's avatar
    LIKE2BUILD
    Explorer
    Jun 07, 2017
    rwj146 wrote:
    I sort of gave up the forum a year or so ago when my health went south. Health is still iffy, but I'm going out fighting.

    :) :) :) Good for you. Keep up the fight and don't give in.



    rwj146 wrote:
    2001 GMC with a 4.8 V-8 and an 8 ft bed. This is the absolute base model. Polaris ATV.

    1988 Terry 18' trailer, about 2800 lb's, small but room for my cat and me.

    curious if anyone would recommend torqlift or Timbrens?

    I have an Equalizer hitch with single sway control

    Double check the loaded weights on the camper. The base models of trucks often have low GVWR. With the ATV in the bed and the trailer tongue weight you might be getting close. You're quite possibly okay, but still make sure the weights work out.

    Does the truck have the OEM receiver? If so, ditch it and get a better frame mounted receiver. The OEM junk uses the bumper to transfer weight and they are awful.

    Good luck and happy camping.

    KJ

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