Forum Discussion

BigJohnD's avatar
BigJohnD
Explorer
Jun 06, 2013

New Coachmen RV

Just bought a Coachmen Apex 278RLS (2013) This is my first full size RV Travel Trailor. The unit is rated at 4800lbs and my towing vehicle is a 2002 GMC 1500 Savanna and supposedly is rated for 5700lbs towing weight. The Savanna has a 5.0ltr engine. I previously towed a hybrid 19ft fold-out with little or no problems. The GMC did not come with a towing package. I also have a WD towing hitch. Are there any concerns that I need to be aware of?

Also, what's the deal with Nitrogen filled tires? Never had these before. Thanks for your thoughts.
  • WoodGlue's avatar
    WoodGlue
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2013
    The trailer is also close to 30' which is a huge step up from your old TT.

    Start shopping now for a new tow vehicle!

    BTW, there is science behind putting nitrogen in tires. But like anything else, it's up for heavy dispute from people who don't know science, or who know it and don't care. I in the "whatever" category. If it's in the tires great, if it's not, great! Not going to get into some dispute with anyone on the merits of nitrogen.

    WoodGlue
  • I_am_still_wayn's avatar
    I_am_still_wayn
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2013
    According to Coachmen's website your trailer's weights are as follows:
    Tongue weight: 681 lbs.
    Base weight: 4,777 lbs.
    Cargo carrying capacity: 2,223 lbs.
    GVWR: 7,000 lbs.
    To better understand what that base weight really is realize it means the weight of the trailer without any options. And those options are what you will consider standard, such as A/C, microwave, awning, TV antenna, audio visual equipment, and maybe even some cabinets and furniture. Of course your personal gear is not included as well as any water, batteries, or propane. Therefore, the GVWR is what should be mated to the tow vehicle.
    Your tow vehicle is under rated for this trailer. Also, get a very very good sway control hitch, such as the Hensley or ProPride, for that trailer. A 30 feet long trailer weighing that little will be pushed around by passing trucks and buses. and strongly affected by cross winds.
  • bradnailer's avatar
    bradnailer
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2013
    I think the idea is that nitrogen makes the tires run cooler and it doesn't lose pressure as fast as regular air. My wife's Beetle came with nitrogen in the tires as did my new travel trailer. I fill them with regular air from my compressor though.
  • LeBout's avatar
    LeBout
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2013
    I agree. The weight of your trailer is identical to my first TT which I pulled with my current pickup, which has a towing capacity higher than yours. You should be looking for a vehicle able to tow in the 9,000 lb range.
  • Goldstalker's avatar
    Goldstalker
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2013
    Racine96 wrote:
    I think you will have problems towing your new TT


    X2! Time to start looking for a new tow vehicle.

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