Newbie, looking at 28-30' rigs
Hello! I've been pouring over this forum for the last few days and read some great advice and learned about a few things I would have never thought of. We are new to RV'ing but not new campers. Ha...
Forum Discussion
Something to watch out for is the weight per axle. In 2008 Ford increased the load capability on the E350 and E450 chassis, but I think most or all the extra capability was added to the front axle where needed least for long motor homes with shorter wheel bases. I have read on this forum numerous times over the years how the rear of "some" of the longest of E450s are carrying more weight than designed for when loaded for a trip with people, fresh water, food, and gear (no bricks), maybe more than the tires themselves are rated for. That could be why some people with huge rigs experience tire blow outs.
I am no expert here. I mention all this just to bring this into discussion. Hopefully people with real weight numbers will share. Those with longer wheel bases and shorter rear over-hangs will likely have more favorable figures because more weight is brought forward, better distributed between the two axles.
There are so many factors in this discussion which is why it is easy and safe to suggest a Super-C once you get into the 30's length. I am sure there are some decent E450s over 30 feet, but don't assume they are all decent in load capability. Do your research on the specific rig(s) of interest to you. Some RV manufactures are better than others in using lighter weight construction materials along with consideration to "weight distribution". Price often is an indicator, but no guarantee either.
I am no expert here. I mention all this just to bring this into discussion. Hopefully people with real weight numbers will share. Those with longer wheel bases and shorter rear over-hangs will likely have more favorable figures because more weight is brought forward, better distributed between the two axles.
There are so many factors in this discussion which is why it is easy and safe to suggest a Super-C once you get into the 30's length. I am sure there are some decent E450s over 30 feet, but don't assume they are all decent in load capability. Do your research on the specific rig(s) of interest to you. Some RV manufactures are better than others in using lighter weight construction materials along with consideration to "weight distribution". Price often is an indicator, but no guarantee either.
