Newbie Couple Purchase

SoundGuy wrote:

Last Train wrote:
Our CAT Scale weights (we weigh regularly) typically show a trailer weight of 4600-4700 lbs. Our tongue weights come in around 480-520 lbs.

Average gross weight for our 2014 192RBS also typically runs ~ 4600 lbs, a bit more those times I may be carrying content in the black tank as well. However, where we differ is gross tongue weight as mine typically averages 600+ lbs (confirmed with my Sherline TW scale) or ~ 13% of it's gross weight and certainly about as little as I'd want to be running. I'm surprised yours is so much less, only ~ 11% which IMO is far too little. As I've done with previous trailers I did move the spare tire to the front pass through cargo compartment and that certainly did help improve gross tongue weight but I'd still prefer a bit more, which I'd probably achieve if I ever upgrade from a single G27 battery on the tongue to a pair of batteries. I suppose so little gross tongue weight may better match the capabilities of your Ridgeline but that's nonetheless awfully light for a trailer averaging ~ 4600 to 4700 lbs loaded and ready to camp.

Great observations, SoundGuy. As we've occasionally posted back and forth I think I can say that we share a passion for precision and procedure in what we do. Your comments about tongue weight are educational for all. Appropriate tongue weight is critical for avoiding trailer sway. And yes, we have typically been on the low end of that generally understood ratio of 10-15% of trailer weight - even after multiple (night before departure) CAT Scale weigh-ins with full fuel, fluids, trailer totally packed in travel configuration, tools and other detritus stowed in our in-bed trunk below the bed and then other weather-tolerant items in the bed, plus wife, plus dog, snacks, etc. (everybody knows how this goes!) in the cab. Virtual "Beverly Hillbillies" stuff!

We have kept our spare tire in its original location under the frame since we made the decision to maximize the space in that huge passthrough our trailers have. I have not yet installed an inverter in our passthrough since we have not yet dry camped that much to justify it (might yet happen, though). I did add a second deep cycle G24 battery for a bit extra battery power, however - so there is some weight to account for there. We usually do not carry any fresh water to speak of but like you perhaps some content in our black and grey tanks - but only then if we are staying in a series of "one nighters" on a longer journey (like we did on our trip last year to the Ozark Mountains).

So with our comparative tongue weight differences resulting in a positive towing experience for you in your Avalanche and us in our Ridgeline, I guess I have to fall back on your "matching the capabilities of the Ridgeline" comment. Maybe we've just hit the sweet spot of the engineering of that truck. I remember last year while on that Ozark Mountain trip I was regularly posting about our towing experiences in the ridgelineownersclub.com forum so others could comment. The basic responses from other Ridgeline owners who regularly tow similar configurations: "Ho-hum. Tell us something we don't already know." Just load the truck and trailer properly, mash and go. We've been blessed with basically uneventful experiences - but always being on guard for those unplanned for emergencies that's can happen to any of us.

On a somewhat whimsical, but very informative note, just earlier today when on that Ridgeline forum someone posted this link to a YouTube video of some guy's review of the truck's off-road capabilities. He was reviewing a 2014 model, but my engine and drivetrain are identical to the Ridgeline he reviewed. I think it is informative in the sense that Honda's AWD system with VTM-4 and VSA each contribute to inherent stability - not to mention that extremely stiff and strong unibody construction: Off Road Review: Honda Ridgeline