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Travel4Life's avatar
Travel4Life
Explorer
Jul 18, 2016

Looking to buy trailer - help me not screw up!

I'm looking to buy my first TT in a few months. I am waiting to buy a tow vehicle until I pick a trailer but right now looking at a tow capacity of 9000. I have four kids and looking at quad/tri bed bunkhouse options (Outback 322BH, Jayco, Shadow Cruiser 280QBS as examples). I've been out looking for a few days and wondering the forums but I want to ask -

What do you wish you knew while shopping for a TT the first time?
What easy mistakes should I avoid?
I'm afraid of sinking tens of thousands into a poorly made lemon only to regret it later - but it's hard to tell build quality as a novice - what should I look for?
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Jul 18, 2016
    If tow rating is 9000 pounds, the Outback 322 at 8115 dry will likely exceed 9000 pounds with a family of 6 for a long weekend. I bet that's closer to 9500 without water, with 1300 pounds of tongue weight. There is no SUV after 2006 that should tow that, not even my 3/4 ton.

    Start with what you can tow. Model, engine/trans/axle and as equipped payload are helpful. Also, how much does the family weigh in total?
  • FrankShore's avatar
    FrankShore
    Explorer
    Jul 18, 2016
    You should look at a Lance 2185, a very well made TT for up to 7 people. And what the guy says above, do not believe what the salesman says about what you can tow and whatever. They'll say anything to make a sale!!!
  • SoundGuy's avatar
    SoundGuy
    Explorer
    Jul 18, 2016
    Travel4Life wrote:
    What easy mistakes should I avoid?


    Overestimating what your tow vehicle can really tow. :(

    Your absolute worst mistake - allowing any salesperson to tell you what that vehicle can tow. :R

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