Forum Discussion
SidecarFlip
Jun 26, 2018Explorer III
I'd be more concerned with the rim rating (maximum permissible load) than the tires. You can uprate on load capacity on tires, the rims themselves maybe, maybe not and keep up on driveline maintenance. Hypoid oil and transmission fluid needs to be changed on a routine basis and greasing of the 'U' joints in the driveshaft if you can (I can, mine are greaseable).
With a long bed camper in a shortbox, the tailgate is a needed accessory and the Cg is going to be farther rearward, putting more weight on the drive axle. I'd want to load the camper (stuff), as far forward as possible.
You will probably need some suspension enhancements, the rear axle is pretty overloaded so it (rear suspension) will probably squat and need some help. I'm an ait bag person but the choice is yours to make, and a upgraded transmission cooler might be in the cards as well. Automatic transmissions die most often from heat issues and you are already in an arid (hot) climate.
Things to consider. I had a Lance (previous TC) and it was substantially over the placard weight listed on the back, like 1300 pounds dry. I call the 'advertised weight' on campers a 'fantasy weight'.
With a long bed camper in a shortbox, the tailgate is a needed accessory and the Cg is going to be farther rearward, putting more weight on the drive axle. I'd want to load the camper (stuff), as far forward as possible.
You will probably need some suspension enhancements, the rear axle is pretty overloaded so it (rear suspension) will probably squat and need some help. I'm an ait bag person but the choice is yours to make, and a upgraded transmission cooler might be in the cards as well. Automatic transmissions die most often from heat issues and you are already in an arid (hot) climate.
Things to consider. I had a Lance (previous TC) and it was substantially over the placard weight listed on the back, like 1300 pounds dry. I call the 'advertised weight' on campers a 'fantasy weight'.
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