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carolynjune's avatar
carolynjune
Explorer
Nov 26, 2017

suv to trailer towing help

Ok, I need help from some people who do this regularly.

I'm looking at buying a tt with a gvwr of 5955. http://www.lemkerv.com/vehicle-details/2008-keystone-springdale-189fl-e5b4d205c857495b81337eb47d70d633

I'd like to be able to use a ford expedition to tow it. I've been told to look for a v8 5.4L engine and have found a 2012 Expedition EL Limited with that engine. https://www.carmax.com/car/14937739
It lists this info: Towing Capacity (Max.)8700 lbs. Payload Capacity for Trucks1530 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight for Trucks7720 lbs.

Would this set up work or would I be asking too much from the suv?

29 Replies

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  • carolynjune's avatar
    carolynjune
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    I don't care for the suburbans. There's not enough leg room in the 3rd seat. The expedition had the leg room, but since we'll be full timing, I'm not willing to risk the transmission burning up. As much as I'd like to stick with a vehicle with 3 rows, I think I need to suck it up and go with a truck.
  • Swell1's avatar
    Swell1
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    I had a similar weight trailer that I pulled with a Tahoe 5.7 with Factory tow package. only had me and mama in the Tahoe. If there was a wind I would have a lot of sway and yep had a sway bar and equalizer hitch. I felt it was from the short wheel base. Moved up to a new trailer with a new F150 max tow package ecoboost 3.5 engine. no more problems. Hope this helps you.
    Good luck
  • colliehauler's avatar
    colliehauler
    Explorer III
    Nov 26, 2017
    The Expedition has a better tow rating then the 1500 burb. The new eco-boost would be a better engine. I have two Excursion V-10 gas and a 7.3 Diesel and they make a stable tow platform as well as a 2500 burb. The trouble is they are getting some age on them and low mileage ones demand a premium.

    I'm not brand loyal and will buy what vehicle best suits my needs.
  • enblethen's avatar
    enblethen
    Nomad
    Nov 26, 2017
    I would be looking at a Suburban with 5.7(350), four speed automatic. Try to find with trailer package 3.73, 393, 410 gears. I think the 3.93 would be the better choice.
    Noy sure if I would stay with 1/2 or go to the 3/4.
    Need more information.
    Do want 4 wheel driver?
    How many do you need to seat?
  • DutchmenSport's avatar
    DutchmenSport
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    I'm not a Ford guy (sorry), not sure how it would compare to the Chevy Suburban. (IF) I were to tow with another Suburban, I'd want a 2500, not a 1500 and come equipped with a factory installed tow package, not an after market one. Not sure what that translates to with the Ford version. Hopefully one of our Ford guru's on these forums can chime in here.

    Edit: Just saw your previous post. ... Look into Chevy Suburbans 2500 with towing package (at least you can get a comparison)... Nothing lost in check it out.
  • carolynjune's avatar
    carolynjune
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    enblethen wrote:
    I would be concerned about the differential gear ratio. This link eludes that it is a flex fuel. Not sure if I would want that.
    ***Link Removed***
    I am not a Ford fan!


    Can I ask, what vehicle would you use?
  • enblethen's avatar
    enblethen
    Nomad
    Nov 26, 2017
    I would be concerned about the differential gear ratio. This link eludes that it is a flex fuel. Not sure if I would want that.
    Carmax link
    I am not a Ford fan!
  • carolynjune's avatar
    carolynjune
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    Dutchmen, I appreciate your feedback. We'll be traveling all over the US and Canada and your response was similar to what I've been getting. I really want a vehicle with three rows. In your opinion, would an Excursion do the job?
  • DutchmenSport's avatar
    DutchmenSport
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2017
    Your choice of trailer is awesome! It's a combination of my first two trailers. The floor plan is almost identical to my first TT, a Dutchmen Sport (lite) -- 18 foot. I towed it with a 1500 Chevy Suburban, V-8, and it destroyed the transmission within 3 months and it was suppose to have a good tow rating. Expedition reminds me of my Suburban. Knowing what I know now, I'd never tow anything bigger than a pop-up or utility trailer with it.

    My second trailer was a 31 foot Springdale travel trailer.

    Your call, but I'd never tow with it.

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