Forum Discussion

ike1450's avatar
ike1450
Explorer
Jul 16, 2017

Towing Capacity

We just purchased a new 2017 Forest River Salem Hemisphere 299 RE. Dry weight=7,439 lbs, hitch weight=730 lbs.

We own a 2013 Ford F-150 XLT 1/2 ton with a towing capacity of 8,000 lbs and a 3:31 rear axle.

Do we need to move up to up a 3/4 ton with a towing capacity of 10,000-11,000?

R.V dealer informed us, the trailer can be pulled with a 1/2 ton truck, when distribution and sway bar kit is installed.

What is your opinion on this? We normally stay on flat ground, however we're looking forward to traveling cross country.

Thanks,

Deb
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2017
    What is the payload capacity of the Ford? What will you carry in the Ford besides yourself? How much will your WDH weigh? The salesman said....hmmmm. "Pulling" isn't very relevant. Wet/loaded I'll wager your TT will be 9,000+ with a tongue weight of...1,100 to 1,300 pounds.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Jul 16, 2017
    Keep the trailer GVWR within the tow rating for best results.
    Forget dry weight unless you are just transporting empty RVs to the dealer.
  • Lantley's avatar
    Lantley
    Nomad
    Jul 16, 2017
    Your listing dry weight for the trailer. What is its GVW or maximum loaded weight of the trailer. What is the payload rating of the truck.
    There are more parameters to be concerned with than just the max. tow rating.
    All 1/2 tons,better yet, all trucks are not created equal. Each truck has a sticker on the door jamb that list the ratings for that particular truck. Your F-150 will have a sticker.
    On the surface it seems like you need more truck or less trailer.
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2017
    the "dry weight" is at the towing capacity. what's the question? the answer is NO
    bumpy
  • downtheroad's avatar
    downtheroad
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2017
    I'll jump in as a WEO.

    7500 lb. dry 35 footer...
    too much for a 013 Ford F-150 XLT 1/2 ton with a towing capacity of 8,000 lbs and a 3:31 rear axle.

    I know what the dealer said...they most always say that.
    Yes, you can tow it off the lot. Towing it fully loaded on a camping trip through a variety of terrains and conditions is another story.
    I'm not thinking you will like it very much..
  • TomG2's avatar
    TomG2
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2017
    ike1450 wrote:


    Do we need to move up to up a 3/4 ton with a towing capacity of 10,000-11,000?


    You don't "have" to do it, unless you want to have a great rving experience instead of an okay time. I have owned five half tons and five three quarter ton pickups in the last fourteen years. I keep trying to make do with the lighter duty models and end up spending the money for a more capable unit. Have fun.

    Having said that, if your traveling is not too ambitious, you can probably make do with the F-150. Be prepared to make tire and suspension upgrades if you choose this route.
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2017
    Deb-

    You posted on July 11 and were advised to determine what your TV could handle or to buy the TT first and then buy a TV matched to the TT. I believe you disregarded that advice, which is your privilege, and now want your fellow RVers to validate your choices? I can't do that. Your TV is inadequate.
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2017
    Lwiddis wrote:
    Deb-

    You posted on July 11 and were advised to determine what your TV could handle or to buy the TT first and then buy a TV matched to the TT. I believe you disregarded that advice, which is your privilege, and now want your fellow RVers to validate your choices? I can't do that. Your TV is inadequate.


    took 5 days to go from thinking about buying to bought. :)
    bumpy
  • MitchF150's avatar
    MitchF150
    Explorer III
    Jul 16, 2017
    I wouldn't tow that trailer with my F150 and it's rated for a lot more than yours...

    But, right now, you have the truck and you have the trailer... Only way for YOU to know is to hitch it up and take it around the block..

    Then you will know what's going to work for YOU... Not what 'we' think.. ;)

    Good luck!

    Mitch

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