Community Forums

dude47 · 11-22-2021, 10:43 PM

I am looking at a used 2006 Coachman Cross County 372DS.

Powertrain is a 300hp 5.9 cummins and MH2500 allison

Max GCWR is 33,000

Curb weight is 22,800
Figure 3k for fuel/water and everything else

That puts me at 7700lbs to max GCWR.

Factory hitch is rated at 5000lbs.

I have a car trailer with a 5000lb land cruiser I tow combined right around 7000lbs. So a little under the 7700lbs to max GCWR.

Looking at upgrading to a 10k hitch with intent to pull the 7k behind it.

Anyone else do something like this? Or pull close to max GCWR with this drivetrain?

I had a 260hp 1996 5.9L Discovery that I used to pull it behind and had no problems. So I figured the 300hp should be good?

Thanks M8s, cheers!

Biljol · 11-22-2021, 11:05 PM

I think your going to be pushing the 2500 transmission beyond its limits.

dude47 · 11-22-2021, 11:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biljol

I think your going to be pushing the 2500 transmission beyond its limits.

Definitely one of my concerns. Would rather have a 3000 for sure. I have been searching and I really don't see many people complaining or reporting issues with the 2500's. And I live in SoCal where everyone is pushing their DP's to the max towing toys.

Crasher · 11-23-2021, 09:08 AM

The 2500 should be rated to handle the GCWR. If not, shame on Coachman. I would want to know what the heavier load on the rear frame extension (if it has one) can handle. If the frame extension is not an issue, it shouldn't matter how you get to the GCWR. Install a heavier rated hitch and enjoy the ride.

Flyer15015 · 11-23-2021, 09:23 AM

Here is how I reinforced my hitch.
Now this is on a gasser W-22 chassis, so yours will be different, but you get the idea.
Pict #1 is the OEM set up. Not so good !
Pict #2 is my fix with 2 x 2 x 1/4" angle and grade 8 bolts.

Mike in Colorado

Mr_D · 11-23-2021, 09:49 AM

Reinforcing a hitch, frame or changing to a higher rated unit does not change the GVWR. Only the manufacturer of the completed vehicle can do that and they certainly aren't going to do that on an individual basis.
I had a 2002 Dutch Star with a 12,000# front axle that was overweight as it left the factory. After some back and forth with Newmar theyhade me drive to the Spartan factory where they replaced the front axle and wheels with a 14,400# unit. They also issued the rig a modified vehicle with sticker. The Spartan factory wouldn't even let me attach the sticker to the vehicle, they had to do it. Pretty strict with those stickers!

Gary RVRoamer · 11-24-2021, 12:06 PM

As long as you stay under the GCWR you are legit and the tranny & driveline should be ok. But I'm doubtful you can achieve that - a 7000 lb trailer load leaves only 700 lbs for everything else. A driver, some water, probably some dishes, utensils & food in the galley, clothing, etc. Even minimal, it adds up quickly.

The attachment of the upgraded hitch is the key thing, but a diesel pusher has sturdy frame rails way back to carry the engine. Just make sure the hitch is mounted direct to the frame rails or to a very sturdy bracket off those rails.

dude47 · 11-24-2021, 04:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gary RVRoamer

As long as you stay under the GCWR you are legit and the tranny & driveline should be ok. But I'm doubtful you can achieve that - a 7000 lb trailer load leaves only 700 lbs for everything else. A driver, some water, probably some dishes, utensils & food in the galley, clothing, etc. Even minimal, it adds up quickly.

The attachment of the upgraded hitch is the key thing, but a diesel pusher has sturdy frame rails way back to carry the engine. Just make sure the hitch is mounted direct to the frame rails or to a very sturdy bracket off those rails.

The 7700lbs already includes 3000lbs for fuel, water, cargo, passengers.