Dealer Lies or bonafied?

[KC Dave]

We're looking to buy our first TT. We went in, we thought, with limited expectations on what we could safely tow based on our 2006 4Runner w/ 110" wheelbase and 7K tow limit. Now we're confused, since three different dealers 'swear' we can safely pull a Flagstaff 26RKS (same story on comparable models such as Aruba, Homelite and Salem in the 24-26' range). Of course we won't buy anything with our a good brake controller and WDH/Sway controller.

RV.Net basically says 'plan to die' if you get anything over a 20' with a 110" wheel base.

What do you good folks think?

[flagstaff]

There are a lot of folks who want to scare anybody from short wheel base towing. Actually it can be done. I towed a an old 25ft Shasta with 109" chevy van, and until a month ago I was towing a Flagstaff 29fkss with a regular Yukon. You have to have a good brake controller and not only a wd hitch but something to help prevent sway. Equal-i-zer, Hensley, or a Reese Dual cam. These hitches are especially important with a short wheel base vehicle. The biggest problem with the shoirt wheel base is the ride. Just be careful and pay attention when your on the open road. Good luck.

[MRimmer]

Well The weight police will eat my lunch for this one.

I pulled a 23.5 with a two door s10 blazer at 100.5 wheelbase. It was not fun but got us to the local campgrounds just fine. I did drive very cautious and used the eqaul-i-zer brad hitch with a prodigy. Actually pulled it across I 40 from memphis to Hot springs one time.

So my opinion is can it? = yes. is it safe? I am no expert but I say we all have to start somewhere. Enjoy what you can afford and know the limits of the TV.


Mike

[gate33]

I Wont Say It Cant But I Will Say That You Wont Enjoy It

[Wolfgang]

I pull an '03 Flagstaff 25LB (SuperLite designation) with my 4L '03 V6 4Runner with no prob. Have, of course, electric brake controller and anti-sway bar trailer hitch. Haven't tried on any but flat land but no problem. Finding workable mirrors was a problem - settled on CIPA universal add-ons. I woudn't go any larger than 25' myself.

[budfans]

i had 1993 grand cherokee and pulled a 2002 mallard lite 26' long had no problems

[Big O]

kc dave. I have never pulled with a short wheelbase TV so i can't help you. I live in the KCMO area. Are we neighbers? Bib O.

[dimurrrw]

Not to dispute what all those estimable dealers (salesmen) have to say, but about the first time a large semi goes barreling by I suspect you might find that you have a lot of tail wagging a very small dog. To me, what the dealers are telling you really pushes the safety envelope. Best of luck if you decide to try it.

[rob98801]

A few years ago a friend was in the same "boat". He borrowed a car trailer and put his car on it and towed it around for a test. After a that he down sized his new TT wants.

I have towed with a jeep and "got her done",but was not very happy about the ride.

[KC Dave]

Thanks to all for your input. I'd really like an FR, but downsizing seems to be the right choice. You can't enjoy camping if you're not alive!

[welshman599]

I don't really have the experience to give advice on this, but I would suggest outfitting your tow vehicle with a brake control and your WD hitch receiver of choice, and then ask the RV dealer to set up and let you test drive a couple of the units you're interested in with the salesman on board. It should be reasonable, particularly if they feel you are going to buy the sway bar and torsion bars they install for the trial.

It's your $$ and your safety and comfort.