I'd like to tow and have no idea where to begin.

[ErinFM]

Consider me completely ignorant… To the point that I don't even know where to go (online) to find these things out… So I'm trying this forum for any guidance/direction whatsoever!

I have a 2005 Four Winds 31P. I would like to tow a 2005 Chevy Colorado. There's also a 2011 Harley Davidson Street Glide (~800lbs?).

I'm picturing a scenario where I'm towing the truck with the bike up in the back of it. Is there a better way to do this? And can you tell me what I need, or how to find what I need, or …. ??? Basically: What do I need (or how do I find out what I need) and what do I need to do?

SOS! (:

[BenK]

Welcome to RV'ing!!!

First, decide if you believe in the OEM ratings or not

If not, then do whatever knowing you have taken the OEM(s) off the liability
and warranty hook...they would now be your responsibility

If yes, then bone up on how those systems work. Pay special attention to the
fine print in all ratings from any OEM. That modifies the numbers they post

Here is a diagram that might help you visualize how the ratings systems look
like and work together in concert.

Too many take a single ratings number out of context and beleive it is an absolute
It is NOT...there are interdependencies

Best is to go out and actually weigh your TV & trailer. Individually and setup,
axle by axle. Fully loaded as if going RVing. That is the only way to know where
you are in reference to your ratings. If you do NOT have actual weights, then
us their maximum rated weight ratings to plug it into this diagram. To then do
the simple math

The generic formula is:

GCWR => TV + TT + stuff

. Stuff as
in people, pets, food, clothing, WD Hitch system, etc, etc, etc

Good luck!

howmuchcanitow howmuchshoulditow

[horizon36]

You also need to weigh your motorhome fully loaded for a trip to see what it weighs. Then look up your MH gross combined vehicle weight (GCWR) in your owners manual or on a cabinet somewhere in your coach. Deduct the MH weight from the GCWR and that will tell you how much you can tow. That is if the draw bar is rated for that amount. If your truck can be flat towed be sure to install an auxiliary braking system in the truck.

[Dog_Folks]

Part of the equation is the length of the bed at 6.1 feet. Most Harleys are 8 feet long depending on the model.

[Triker33]

First you need to read the owners manual to see if your 2005 Colorado can be towed.

Check Herefor more info on it.