I've camped for the past 15 years, but in a stationary TT. Sold it this spring, and have the bug for a toy hauler. I began with the idea of converting an old U-Haul truck, a box truck or motor home modification. Generally, I dislike towing something behind me. However, after pricing the ultimate expense of the above modification ideas, I'm resigned to learning to like pulling a toy hauler.
My primary concern is towability with a 1/2 ton truck. I've read numerous forums wherein the members generally say "You're stupid to try towing with a 1/2 ton"
. I've seen pictures posted of what can happen as a result of trying to do so. A new truck is NOT an option in my mind( OR the wifes !).
I have a 2010 Chevy Silverado extended cab,1500. It does have the 5.3 L vortec V-8, 3.42 Axle ratio, also the trailering package with K5L HD cooling pkg. and factory trailer brake controller. Chevy's specs say it can pull a trailer with a hitch weight of 600 lbs. ( bumper) and 1,100 with a weight distribution hitch. Max trailer wt. of 9,600 and GCWR of 15,000.
This seems to be, ON PAPER, plenty of truck for one of the lighter toy haulers. I really like the floorplan of the XLR HyperLite 24HFS.It lists a 577 lb hitch weight and 5,675 ship weight I have several "Toys" I would want to haul, one at a time only, of course.
These would be either a 2009 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic, OR a Polaris Sportsman 700 EFI ATV, OR an older EZ-GO 3 wheel golf cart. I have generally rounded UP the weight of each "toy" to 1000 lbs. Ironically, the old 36V golf cart weighs the most, and that would likely be the toy hauled most often.
Sorry for the "novel" but wanted to provide enough info for feedback. Has anyone pulled the 24HFS with a comparable 1/2 ton pick-up ? And what were your experiences/recommendations. Any others have a 1/2 ton and pulling a different model ? I really like the front queen bed layout. It would just be for myself ( 6'2" 245 ) & wife 5'2 &,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,VERY LIGHT
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Any and all input is appreciated. And yes, I know, a bigger truck would be better, but that's not gonna happen.