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Maver's avatar
Maver
Explorer
Aug 31, 2016

Help - Buying a new trailer

My wife and I have an Outback 277RL that we really enjoy, but it's just too much trailer for my half ton pickup (false advertising by the manufacturer of my truck, in my opinion, but that's a whole different story).

We're stuck with either upgrading my truck or downsizing the trailer. We'll likely opt to downsize the trailer. We'd like to stick with the RL floor plan, and there are plenty to choose from, in the 24', 5,000 pound range. Models such as Apex, Vibe Extreme, Jayco, Kodiak, Hyper-Lyte Hemisphere, Summerland, and Mallard, to name a few.

We've been happy with the quality of the Outback (Keystone), and would like similar quality. Of the models I've mentioned (or perhaps any I've missed), does anyone have any recommendations? We'll use it quite a bit, so we're OK getting a little higher quality to help ensure that it lasts. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
  • Tell us about your truck and we may be able to better help you. Year, Model, Engine, Rear end gear ratio, payload, etc. It's possible a $600 gear change in the rear end may fix your problem. Or is it you just want to downsize no matter what?
  • I see more Jayco models on the road than any other manufacturer. That must say something. If I was to buy again I would certainly look at them.
  • Don't rule out upgrading your truck. Down the road you may be inclined to go bigger on your trailer and you'll have to buy a new truck anyway. You said you really like the trailer you have now, good quality and depending on age of the Outback you could take bath trading it in. Your truck will depreciate less the your RV.

    Upgrade to 2500 gasser and you could tow most anything comfortably besides the largest fifth wheels.

    Just my two cents. Good luck and happy camping.
  • Our 25 ft Dutchmen is advertised as 5004 lbs by the manufacturer. Across the CAT scales it weighs about 6400 lbs.

    It's a point to consider when selecting a new TT.