To bullet comments:
1. Do no use dry weight of trailer to determine towing limits. Dry weight does not include water, propane, all the stuff you add in, etc. In some cases it doesn't even include the AC unit, etc. For an unknown trailer, always use the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) to pair it with your tow vehicle. With an unknown tow vehicle, always use the actual loaded weight of your trailer (if owned) or GVWR (if not purchased yet).
2. Along with the towing capacity of the vehicle, you will most likely be limited by the payload (or CCC or cargo capacity) of the tow vehicle. The payload is often the limiting factor - especially for families.
3. For many RVers, the preference is to stay at or below 15 percent of each the tow capacity AND payload. This provides a"cushion" for performance so the tow vehicle is not always maxed out on every trip. Some RVers will go all the way to the limits and be happy. It is all about your own comfort level, your vehicle and trailer's drivability, and the roads you travel. If you only drive flat roads or short distances, your experience at the limits will be different than if you drive in mountains or long distances. Your own familiarity with towing will have a bearing on this.
Calculations to do:
10-15 percent of trailer's GVWR = tongue weight
Trailer's GVWR <= vehicle towing capacity
Weight of all passengers and pets, weight of all supplies carried in the vehicle, on the roof, or on a hitch, weight over 150lbs for driver, PLUS tongue weight of trailer <= vehicle payload
If the last two calculations are true, then you are within the limits. At this point, you need to determine if you want that "cushion" and, if so, how much you want it to be.
1975 American Clipper RV with Dodge 360 (photo in profile)
1998 American Clipper Fold n Roll Folding Trailer
Both born in Morgan Hill, CA to Irv Perch (Daddy of the Aristocrat trailers)
