rsaylor3 wrote:
I just posted about weighing my new travel trailer. Thankfully I did because the dry weight was quite a bit higher than what the manufacturer listed.
I have a 2015 Viewfinder 32rlss. My tow vehicle is a 2013 Silverado 1500 with 5.3 6 speed. I knew I would be pushing it when I bought it but also knew I would be under the max payload and tow capacity by a safe bit. I also will be doingost of my camping in Florida to atart with.Now after hitting the scales as well as pulling my first camper I am realizing that a 3/4 ton is in my future.
My question is more about towing comfort and sway. I have a Blue Ox with 1,000 lb bars. Being my first travel trailer I really don't know how good or bad the ride is. I can say that doing 65 mph, I feel some bigger SUV's, going under overpasses and for sure when buses and semi's overtake me. I feel the push and pull. It was very windy on my first drive home last weekend after picking her up in Georgia and camping at Stone Mountain. Felt the wind all the way home. Never swayed out of control or had to reach for the manual override; but definitely felt different than towing big boats that I have plenty of experience with. Not what I would call white knuckle, but a bit exhausting for sure.
Will a 3/4 ton help stabilize my drive? I know the pulling will be easier and the stiffer suspension will be welcomed, but how much if any will it help with the ride qualities above? I know a pullpride would make a difference and I almost bought one to start with but thought I would try the Blue Ox first. Figure I will end up with one even with a new truck, should I get the pullpride first? Truck probably won't happen till late this year.
Thanks and sorry for such a long post!
I can relate to your issue since I had a similar circumstance and similar equipment. Getting back to some of your questions, I towed my current TT with a 1500 and switched to a 2500HD diesel using the Blue Ox Sway Pro both times. You asked, "will a 3/4 ton help stabilize my drive?" It made a HUGE difference for me as I had expected. With the 1500 I felt all the "stuff"... sway, drag, wind, trucks, etc. I got a workout each time. You are close to all of your maximums as I was. Two hands gripping the wheel, tensed up a little, waiting for that next truck to blow by or fighting the wind. I'm sure you can relate. I wasn't uncomfortable, but I sure as heck wasn't comfortable. I had to tow with the 1500 for the last part of the season which was about 5 or so trips.
Towing with the 2500HD diesel with the same Blue Ox Sway Pro was like night and day. I hardly feel any sway, the wind is not an issue, and semi trucks pass by me without much effort on my part. I drive down the highway now with the cruise on, hands are relaxed on the steering wheel and I'm very comfortable. I can now talk on my phone, text, play with the GPS and drink my coffee without any problems! (Just kidding :W)
Last summer I drove 20+ hours straight through from Colorado (I know that's too long) and it was a very enjoyable drive. Hope this helps and good luck on your decision.
