Community Forums

mtdeery · 09-01-2018, 05:43 PM

We are wanting to move from our LQ horse trailer and a camper to a Diesel pusher. Not concerned about towing capacity as much as maneuverability. Looking a used Monaco 40ft. But with a wheel spread of 270", we are concerned about those curves and tight horse camping spots.
Anyone out there horse camp with a larger wheel base?

BFlinn181 · 09-01-2018, 06:12 PM

A 40' RV with a long trailer will take some scanning ahead when fueling and turning tight corners. I don't understand, "But with a wheel spread of 270" 270 inches is 22.5ft. Surely your trailer doesn't have a width of 22.5'?

Many RVs tow trailers (closed car haulers, etc.) longer than 22.5', but the distance from hitch to axles might be different. Many states put length of tow vehicle and trailer at 65', but I don't know of anyone being stopped if they exceed that limit.

Crasher · 09-01-2018, 06:31 PM

We haven't horse camped, but we used to dry camped in some pretty tight places with our 43' coach and 26' enclosed trailer and been in some RV parks that looked too tight to get in, but we did. Slow and easy does it. There are just some really tight turns you can't make, but with a little pre scouting, you can usually find a way to get where you need to be. We now pull a 20' open trailer and go where ever we want to.

Ivylog · 09-01-2018, 07:11 PM

My rig is 45' plus a car and I go places most with 40' rigs would not Fortunately I can backup without unhitching...like you can with a trailer. Often I have to make a 2 point turn by turning to late to make the turn, then you turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction before backing up a little (not enough to jackknife/hit the trailer) and then complete the turn. Have even had to backup 2 times to make the turn.
Backing a trailer is a lot easier than you might think because of the long overhang off the back of a MH.
Here is how I can backup: http://http://www.irv2.com/attachments/customprofilepics/profilepic234609_3.gif

BFlinn181 · 09-01-2018, 07:15 PM

Most every tow bar builder says NEVER back up with a car attached by a tow bar.

windsorbill · 09-01-2018, 08:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BFlinn181

A 40' RV with a long trailer will take some scanning ahead when fueling and turning tight corners. I don't understand, "But with a wheel spread of 270" 270 inches is 22.5ft. Surely your trailer doesn't have a width of 22.5'?

Many RVs tow trailers (closed car haulers, etc.) longer than 22.5', but the distance from hitch to axles might be different. Many states put length of tow vehicle and trailer at 65', but I don't know of anyone being stopped if they exceed that limit.

I think what OP is referring to is wheel base. (Said wheel spread) 270” is about normal for a 40’ coach.

Rusty Kramer · 09-01-2018, 09:58 PM

It takes a little getting used to it but you will be fine. I just have my son get out with the cell phones to spot me when backing and turning tight. 30 years ago all we had was a pickup and small trailer. Many racers are using 70+ foot long rigs now and it makes it a challenge for some of the smaller race tracks to get everyone parked.

ThePowells · 09-01-2018, 10:11 PM

Welcome to the forum!

Ivylog · 09-02-2018, 03:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BFlinn181

Most every tow bar builder says NEVER back up with a car attached by a tow bar.

My manufacturer...me says I can. You might want to click on the link I provided.

ThePowells · 09-02-2018, 03:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivylog

My manufacturer...me says I can. You might want to click on the link I provided.

Hey now, that's cheatin'.... But I like the way you think!

Ivylog · 09-02-2018, 07:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ThePowells

Hey now, that's cheatin'.... But I like the way you think!

A added benefit is I get to discuss how many axles I have on the ground with the toll booth person, especially in NY, where I've had them walk back and look after I said I had $100 that I was not a lair with only 4 axles on the ground. Must be a bunch of cheaters in NY as twice I've had them go look.

Crasher · 09-02-2018, 07:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BFlinn181

Most every tow bar builder says NEVER back up with a car attached by a tow bar.

That's what they say and probably most should not try it. I've had to do it a few times with my Blue Ox 10,000# bar. Just slow and only slight turns works fine. Just be careful not to let the toad wheels turn and put things in a bind. It's safer if you collapse the arms first.