Towing with Workhorse Chassis

[frederick w]

Hi

My 30ft flair (workhorse chassis) is rated at 3500 lbs. for towing according to info on the forum. If I understood this right. Does that mean that the 454 engine can only pull that much or that the rear structure of the
coach (hitch area) is only strong enough to take max stress of 3500 lb. Hope I said that right.
My van weighs 3800 lb. Will use a tow dolly. Maybe not.
And thanks for refering me to the Workhorse chassis site.

Fred Rubio from Pasco, Wa.

[InPursuit]

I don't tow and and haven't even looked at the tow data..
(but that won't stop me from commenting though)

*whatever* the charts may say about weight...
it will be based on NEW condition driveline, suspension and brakes

I'd be inclined to discount those chart numbers
-X% for every 10,000 miles ?
-Y% for every year of age ?

What say the towing experts?

[Route 66]

As noted in the post above, the manufacturers arrive at the tow rating by considering engine power, engine cooling capacity, transmission capacity and cooling, suspension capacity, axles, springs, tires, frame strength, hitch rating, brakes, although all manufacturers require brakes on the trailer/toad above a minimal weight, ability to control the rig, etc. Sometimes these ratings are optimistic and sometimes conservative, but the manufacturers tow rating should be followed.

Hitches can be beefed up, but that's just a band aid.

[Gary RVRoamer]

My best guess is that it is the frame structure where the hitch mounts that is the limiting factor, but it really doesn't make any difference. 3500 lbs is the same no matter what the weakest link may be.