Class C towing a car hauler - limitations?

[Jeeperdon]

I recently bought a 2000 Fleetwood Jamboree 23B Class C with a V10. It's built on the E350 frame with a recommended tow weight of 3500lbs. I'm close to 5000lbs with my car hauler trailer trail Jeep.

Since the car hauler is a dual axle (with brakes on both by the way) so the tongue weight isn't all that much. The Class C is only 24ft so there's not too much overhang in the rear. Can I add some strength to the frame & a Class V hitch and be safe while towing? And/or what are my other options (other than selling & buying a Class C with an E450 setup and 5K pulling limit).

Thanks very much!
Don McDowell

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeeperdon I recently bought a 2000 Fleetwood Jamboree 23B Class C with a V10. It's built on the E350 frame with a recommended tow weight of 3500lbs. I'm close to 5000lbs with my car hauler trailer trail Jeep. Since the car hauler is a dual axle (with brakes on both by the way) so the tongue weight isn't all that much. The Class C is only 24ft so there's not too much overhang in the rear. Can I add some strength to the frame & a Class V hitch and be safe while towing? And/or what are my other options (other than selling & buying a Class C with an E450 setup and 5K pulling limit).

Don, Not only does your RV have to tow the load it also has to stop it. I would be concerned with the Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) as well. As you pointed out the tongue weight shouldn't be that bad but I would scale it to see exactly what the tongue weight is. Once you know you can make better decisions. I would not consider modifying the hitch attachment points unless you feel that you can achieve a safe GCWR.

[TXiceman]

The Ford chassis you have has a limit for towed loads without brakes of 1500#, so your trailer will need brakes. A lot of the Ford chassis have a 3500# limit hitch. Some can be changed to a 5000# hitch., provided the chassis is rated for the GCWR.

If the chassis has frame extensions welded to the original Ford frame, I would not consider changing the hitch or going beyond the manufacturers ratings.

Ken

[Jeeperdon]

Thanks to everyone for giving sound advice on how to keep me safe while towing. Looks like I might tow without the trailer & use a Brake Buddy set up.