Getting Expensive

jbjuices wrote:
I don't trust the 5-6 different dealers I called that said we would be more than fine to tow it with this vehicle. By the way, it amazes me that they would say that an expedition can tow a 7000lb dry weight trailer, even if they know I'm not buying from them. Is it that they truly don't know, when they should because they're the experts?

Problem is when manufactures create their tow ratings, it is for an ideal trailer. An ideal trailer is a 2 axle flat deck hauling lumber or concrete. Maybe a boat or a low profile enclosed box. These trailers have low center of gravity, low (or no) wind resistance, and about a 10% tongue weight.

So yes, an Expedition can tow a 7000 or even 8500lb trailer!! - as long as it is low, with no wind resistance, the load centered on the trailer axles, 10% tongue weight, and just the driver inside :)

If you have ever seen videos of manufactures towing tests, this is EXACTLY the set up you will see. A single driver pulling a flat deck with some heavy weighs strapped over the trailer axles. Hardly representative of what we want to tow!

A travel trailer is the OPPOSITE of ideal. High center of gravity with weight around the edges, very high wind resistance, requires a higher tongue weight of 13% minimum to keep stable, and usually a family is along for the ride.

Manufactures don't really explain the difference. Salesmen rarely understand this difference, and fail to realize just how much it affects how much can safely be towed. It is left to the customer to take the maximum number provided and back out all the other factors.

The numbers have been run enough times on half ton SUVs that the general concensus for a family of 4 to stick with a dry weight of 5000-5500 lbs which will also usually keep the length in check. and The weight numbers will pretty much always work out and not require excessive attention. Add family numbers or increase the dry weight and adjustments should be made.

My TT is 4045 dry. Add propane, batteries, water, food, stuff, and I am at around 5200-5300. I have 3 kids and a aunt that sometimes comes with us. My Expy has one of the highest half ton payload ratings at 1675lbs. With the 6 of us and a bit of stuff, I have around 850lbs left for tongue weight. So I could go a little bigger than my current trailer, but not much!

Congrates of the the big Ex!! You have made a good decision!!