Wheelbase factors

[rmnpcolorado]

So I’m probably posting on something that’s been beat to death, but wanted to ask a basic question as we begin our search to upgrade our tow vehicle from our current Chevrolet Avalanche.

What are people’s opinions on the length of the wheelbase? Just looking at the 1500/150 with the 145” or 157” wheelbase (5.5’ vs 6.5’ box). I would assume that the longer wheelbase is more stable? We have a 25’ trailer now with the desire to upgrade down the road to probably 28-29’.

On the flip side, any issues with the shorter wheelbase if the truck is equipped properly? (Thinking max tow/max trailering package).

[APT]

I would not chose the bed length based on towing stability. Marginally different all else (equipment, payload) equal.

[MFL]

jerem0621 wrote:
There are many other factors at play than just wheelbase. It does help, wheelbase, but there is more to it than that.

My 2011 Tahoe, 6 speed Transmission, 10 Ply LT tires, large trans cooler, 3.08 gears, 31 ft Travel Trailer weighing 7,200 ish lbs.



Jeremiah

I agree, things like adding 10 ply tires, even adding suspension support will help to improve towing a 30' TT, with a light duty tow vehicle. It may even make as much, or more difference than another 12"s of wheelbase.

Jerry

[Grit_dog]

Either will be fine. But I’d opt for a longer bed.

[jerem0621]

There are many other factors at play than just wheelbase. It does help, wheelbase, but there is more to it than that.

My 2011 Tahoe, 6 speed Transmission, 10 Ply LT tires, large trans cooler, 3.08 gears, 31 ft Travel Trailer weighing 7,200 ish lbs.

Tows like it’s on rails behind my Tahoe, the same vehicle that many people discourage others from towing with. Trans temp stays about 180 degrees while towing.

And, my previous TT was pulled with The Godfather of TV, a CC, LB, Dually so this isn’t some newb trying things out. I love pulling trailers and this is my favorite TV I have ever owned.

Thousands of trouble free miles over several different vehicles, it’s all in the set up. All of it. Not just one piece of it.





Hitch Hints Article

Thanks and JMHO based on experience.

Jeremiah

[bikendan]

rmnpcolorado wrote:

MFL wrote:


Haven't you ever wished for a little more room in the Avalanche bed??

Jerry

No, it’s an Avalanche. If I need more bed I put the midgate down. I’ve hauled a full length couch in it with the tailgate up (in a thunderstorm-stupid! But it stayed dry under the tarp job.) Can’t do that in a standard pickup. Best truck GM ever made, just too much of a niche vehicle.

I owned a 2007 Avy LS. I replaced it with a F150 SCREW 4x4 3.5 Ecoboost with the Max Tow package.
I absolutely love the truck and it is a towing beast, compared to the Avy.
I did love the Avy(the Swiss Army Knife of trucks)but it can't compare to modern 1/2 trucks when it comes to towing.

[Tal_IL]

I’ve still got my old 1975 Bronco. Never pulled a camper with it, but it has drug boats and cargo trailers all over the country. It has a 92 inch wheelbase. It always towed just fine. And you can’t beat a shorter wheelbase for backing a trailer into tight spots. I don’t think a few inches either way will make any noticeable difference.

[ppine]

A longer wheelbase has many advantages, it is just harder to park.
A 5.5 foot box is for groceries. A 6.5 foot box is marginally acceptable.
I like long beds.

[rmnpcolorado]

MFL wrote:


Haven't you ever wished for a little more room in the Avalanche bed??

Jerry

No, it’s an Avalanche. If I need more bed I put the midgate down. I’ve hauled a full length couch in it with the tailgate up (in a thunderstorm-stupid! But it stayed dry under the tarp job.) Can’t do that in a standard pickup. Best truck GM ever made, just too much of a niche vehicle.

[blt2ski]

Assuming ball/rear bumper mount hitches. Longer yes is generally better.
A shorter overhang for a give WB is also better than a longer one. A shorter WB with a higher great is usually better than a longer lower capacity setup. Add in front wheel cut angle. My 288" wb international can out turn a 155" wb pick up I had. Due to the wheels turning 55* off center, vs 45* for. Pickup.
So as jimlin says, many factors and variables as to which setup might be better.
Marty

[JIMNLIN]

My experience from owning and operating all wheel base lengths for my hauling business is not all longer wheelbase trucks are more stable than one with a shorter wheel base. Too many variable to say that the longer wheel base is more stable.

A 145" wheel base truck won't have any handling issues with that TT.

[MFL]

The longer wheel base will certainly be more stable, especially with a 15 series truck. JMO, but if used for towing a TT, which likely means hauling some things in the truck bed, I'd have no use for a 5.5 short bed.

Haven't you ever wished for a little more room in the Avalanche bed??

Jerry

[Lwiddis]

My 2015 Tahoe was 116 and the Silverado is 147. Wonderful difference when those 18 wheelers and busses buzz past me.