Relationship between lengths of TV and TT
Is there one? Is there a ratio that needs to be observed, or is it entirely a matter of GVWR-payload-tongue weight?
Forum Discussion
If you want a mechanical engineer's answer to this: no, there is no simple formula or any "gospel" rule-of-thumb that applies. There are simply more variables than can be answered discretely in this day. Trailers comes in too many flavors now... The exact same trailer frame - length, axle centers to coupler, axle size and capacity and suspension all same - can be loaded very differently, which can be seen in tongue weight but tongue weight doesn't tell the whole story. The center of gravity can also be very different because one trailer has a barrel roof and the other flat; throw in a couple of air conditioners on the roof of one and only one on the other; and/or, one has a single superslide and the other maybe slides on each side. Then what's your weight distribution strategy and equipment. Just some of the variables for the trailer. Then with the tow vehicle there are so many wheelbase configurations, weights, and suspension options, all of which change the vehicles center of gravity and behavior let alone how the tow vehicle is loaded for any one trip (especially where kids are involved).
I guess I'm driving at a point that towing within ratings and using appropriate hitching equipment for the task at hand in consideration of both the trailer and tow vehicle is the fundamental for "capability." Then you can most certainly argue that the "comfort" of the tow lies in definitely having more tow vehicle than less! Dragging your 25-footer behind a 3500 DRW diesel long bed will have you checking your mirrors just to make sure a trailer is back there, but might also have you crying monthly when the loan check goes! But darn the tow is comfortable! See where I was going?
Happy camping!
I guess I'm driving at a point that towing within ratings and using appropriate hitching equipment for the task at hand in consideration of both the trailer and tow vehicle is the fundamental for "capability." Then you can most certainly argue that the "comfort" of the tow lies in definitely having more tow vehicle than less! Dragging your 25-footer behind a 3500 DRW diesel long bed will have you checking your mirrors just to make sure a trailer is back there, but might also have you crying monthly when the loan check goes! But darn the tow is comfortable! See where I was going?
Happy camping!
