Question:
I'm thinking about upgrading from a pop-up camper to a bigger travel
trailer. Haven't gotten into the specifics, but a floorplan like the
Jayco 27BH looks about right. That is listed at 4950 pounds unloaded
vehicle weight, 635 pound tongue weight.
The tow vehicle I have is a 2001 Chevy Silverado 5.3L V8. I'm pretty
sure I'll need:
1) Transmission cooler
2) Oil Cooler
3) Weight distributing hitch
4) Brake controller
But beyond that - what about the weight of the camper? Am I going to be
really sorry about trying to pull that thing without a bigger engine?
Most of the towing would be on relatively level ground here in Texas.
Answer:
-All the 'accessories' you listed are a must. And you should be OK on the
flat in Texas but...
I remember lots of interstate accesses in the state...accesses at which
you're supposed to be accelerating to merge with traffic. I don't think the
5.3L is going to give you that acceleration. Getting up to highway speed
with nearly 7000lbs loaded will be an effort and your driving will have to
adjust accordingly. And the Hill Country might be a problem.
-I think you may want to reconsider that size and go with a 21-24'.
I remember pulling a 93' Coachman Catalina 21' with a 93' Ford F150 5.0L V8
(with all Eq mentioned) and it had serious problems with the Hills in PA. It
was way underpowered when pulling out on a hill.
Some of the newer models are lighter now then they were then and your extra
0.3L should offset this too.
