Community Forums

kramster · 09-25-2010, 12:28 AM

We want to tow a small trailer with our Ford Edge -we're looking at the Jayco Skylark and Viking Apex. The Edge has a 3500 pound towing capacity. The trailers we're looking at come in at around 3000 pounds (including the ac and microwave and awning ). We will travel very lightly -- but are concerned about getting too close to that maximum weight. Has anyone towed with a Ford Edge -- what do you tow and how does it do? We're confused about whether the towing capacity just includes the trailer and what is in it -- or does how much we pack in the Edge itself come into play? We're new at this - hope these questions aren't too dumb.

Route 66 · 09-25-2010, 04:22 AM

Your questions are definitely not dumb.

You are wise to look into this now and not after you buy something.

RustyJC · 09-25-2010, 06:20 AM

Trailer tow ratings are generally calculated by the vehicle manufacturers as GCWR (gross combined weight rating - the maximum that a vehicle and whatever it's towing can weigh in total) minus the vehicle's curb weight. The problem is that the figure the manufacturer uses for the vehicle's curb weight is usually for a base vehicle with only a 150 lb driver.

This means that any difference between the manufacturer's published curb weight of the tow vehicle and the actual laden curb weight of that vehicle (i.e., the vehicle's weight with options and accessories, driver and passengers, cargo, etc.) must be subtracted from the trailer tow rating. That's why the trailer tow rating is generally considered to be a "fluff" marketing number that the manufacturer tries to set as high as possible to get bragging rights in their advertising.

To answer your question directly, then, yes, whatever weight you add to the tow vehicle has to be subtracted from the trailer tow rating.

Rusty

kramster · 09-25-2010, 07:14 AM

Thanks so much -- you really cleared things up for me. I have my calculator out and am seeing that we probably need to be looking at something even lighter. Adding the weight of the passenger made my calculatons go "tilt"!!! I hadn't counted on that. Appreciate your help. Back to the drawing board.

kramster · 09-25-2010, 07:45 AM

Does anyone have any experience with the TrailManor hardside trailers? I'm reading about the Elkmont 22. We're going to talk to a salesperson -- but would love to hear from an actual owner. Thanks.