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TXiceman · 10-30-2004, 07:19 PM

On the way back from Tulsa this afternoon I spotted a 36' Carri-Lite 5er coming at us and it was being pulled aby a 3/4 ton Dodge diesel. But to make it even worse, he had a Jeep Wrangler on a tow bar behind the trailer. I didn't see a driver in the Jeep so it could not have been using it as a pusher -assist.

Ken

TXiceman · 10-30-2004, 07:19 PM

On the way back from Tulsa this afternoon I spotted a 36' Carri-Lite 5er coming at us and it was being pulled aby a 3/4 ton Dodge diesel. But to make it even worse, he had a Jeep Wrangler on a tow bar behind the trailer. I didn't see a driver in the Jeep so it could not have been using it as a pusher -assist.

Ken

baddwalk · 10-30-2004, 07:37 PM

That must have been a really stupid sight to see. A rolling road hazard. Give the driver of that set up a "stupid" sign to wear around his neck. I would love to have pulled that guy over. What a ticket, overweight and over length.

Don W.
2002 Chevy 2500HD CC/LB D/A
2004 Thor Jazz XL 3100 RL

CD · 10-31-2004, 04:40 AM

Twiceman
He wouldn't need the help from a pusher but maybe he was using the jeep for an anchor to keep it slowed down. That's a problem with the power of our diesels. Some people think they can handle anything because they can pull it.

Aviator · 10-31-2004, 04:55 AM

Ok,
Aside from the jeep in tow, I don't know what some of these rigs weigh. I pull a Weekend Warrior 37' with my 2500 DCTD. When the 5er is fully loaded and truck is full, I am 2400lbs over the book. I checked that at a CAT scale. I then did my research (was getting ready to purchase new 350 or 3500) when a Dodge rep pointed out that I had the 1-ton springs and over loads. He asked me if I had any problems towing it, Tracking, Stoping ect.. Well, NO. Just under power on steep grades.
With the 1 ton springs and when I lower my gear ratio (current 3.55 going to 4.10s) he stated, that I am fine. Dodge will not change the weights as they don't want to be responsable.
I would never tow my rig if it felt unsafe or if I was unable to stop it or manuver it in a emergency.
When the WW is fully loaded for our normal 1 week outing, 13400lbs is the solo weight. That is water, food, gas, propane and quads/dirt bike.
If I was doing a long haul, skip most of the water and gas and put the Hogs in the back. I use my water for balance of weight. One other thing, Triple Axles really help.
I'm sure that not everyone agrees and might thing I'm a moron, well, it wouldn't be the first time someone thought that I'm sure. I know my rig is safe to tow with My 2500 dodge CTD. Aside from the power issue, you would never know the rig was back there. Tows great.
Ok I have rattled on to much..
Have Fun

TXiceman · 10-31-2004, 12:54 PM

I 'm not going to say another thing...

Ken

CyberVet65 · 10-31-2004, 04:36 PM

Aviator, you are very close to the 26K limit for requiring a Commerical License. Do not ever get pulled over and have the CHP put you on a scale. The ticket will break you!
Chet

FiverBob · 10-31-2004, 04:57 PM

A friend of mine got pulled over in Cal. He had a Ford 250 and was towing a 35'er. Put the trailer on a scale - - cop told him to pull it into a parking lot and disconnect it. Handed him a ticket for something like $1200 which he had to pay before they would release the trailer. Then, he had to have a hauler pull the trailer to the state line and pay him for doing it.

Most truck salemen have no idea what the truck has under it, in it, on it and what tow ratings are all about. They know nothing about brake size, tire size and rating and tell you that your truck will pull a house and carry an elephant. Don't believe it.

Hitchhiker · 11-01-2004, 02:53 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by FiverBob:
He had a Ford 250 and was towing a 35'er. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I see dozens of these configurations on the highways all the time!

George Miklas · 11-01-2004, 01:28 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by CyberVet65:
Aviator, you are very close to the 26K limit for requiring a Commerical License. Do not ever get pulled over and have the CHP put you on a scale. The ticket will break you!
Chet <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

In Pennsylvania, Aviator would be required to take a knowledge test and driving skills test with his rig for his non-commercial class A operator's license. Anyone with an RV trailer over 10,000# must have a class A operator's license here. Motor homes over 26,000# must have a non-commercial class B operator's license. That is the law in Pennsylvania.

George

CoastalDav · 11-01-2004, 02:46 PM

I think the biggest concern with pulling a bigin like decribed herein with a 2500 type truck, no mater who's it is, is the loss of a rear tire at highway speeds. A 3500 can survive that. A 2500 may end up jack knifed as the pin weight pushes the truck in the direction of the blowout.

Dave

TXiceman · 11-01-2004, 04:24 PM

Towing that size trailer with a 3/4 ton truck seems to becoming the accepted norm due to people that do not know or do not care. The real eye opener was the 4000# Jeep tagging along on the back bumper of the trailer. He was probably close to 52' long with out the 4' or tow bar plus the Jeep. And witout a doubt no brakes on the Jeep either.

Still one of the worst rigs I have seen was a older generation one 3/4 ton Dodge diesel pulling a 34' Coachman 5th wheel, but to anchor the whole rig, they had a Buick Regal on a dolly behind the trailer. It was an older couple with Michigan tags in south Texas. They had come a long way and had a long way home.

People do not seem to understand that they make big trucks for big trailers and it seems to be reasonable to assume small trucks for small trailers. And I have often said, there is no requirement for smarts to buy an RV, just money or good credit.

Ken

Aviator · 11-01-2004, 05:34 PM

Guys,
remember one thing, I'm on Triple axles... My equipment is much lighter so don't let size fool you. I do have 1-Ton susp. on the truck, I'm not on the overloads when set. I watch my weight and balance (how many people weigh everything that goes in the rig and keeps a chart on it).
Fully loaded hooked up, 20350, total.
Say what ya want, I know my rig is more than safe.

Aviator · 11-01-2004, 06:08 PM

George,
In Pa, if you tow anything under 10K, you are required to have a Class B. Check the Veh. Code.. I was a officer in Pa, Not to far north of you.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by George Miklas:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by CyberVet65:
Aviator, you are very close to the 26K limit for requiring a Commerical License. Do not ever get pulled over and have the CHP put you on a scale. The ticket will break you!
Chet <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

In Pennsylvania, Aviator would be required to take a knowledge test and driving skills test with his rig for his _non-commercial class A operator's license_. Anyone with an RV trailer over 10,000# must have a class A operator's license here. Motor homes over 26,000# must have a _non-commercial class B operator's license_. That is the law in Pennsylvania.

George <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>