Looking for new TT

[Bchecker]

Looking for our families first travel trailer:

Current tow vechicle would be a 07 Escalade ESV
Looking at Surveyor SP-280 or really like the SP-295

Anyone running a similar set up?

Little concerned that both may be too much for my TV.
Appreciate any feedback, I would hate to get persuaded by the RV dealer saying both can be safely towed by TV and find out that they really are too much.

Thanks,
Brad

[red dirt]

What does your owner's manual say is the towing capacity of your Escalade?

[Bchecker]

07 Escalade ESV 7600lbs

[Fire Instructor]

Good time to be looking. Try to get to one of the larger, regional winter RV and Camping Shows. The dealers will usually deal fairly well at these shows, and if you go in pre-approved by your bank, you bring a purchasing power that makes it easier for them to go a bit lower on their pricing.

You are at 7600 lbs, which includes any weight in the bed, the TT, and anything you pack in the trailer. Keep in mind that when you look at the trailer net weight, that does not include propane weight, water tanks filled, or even a battery installed. If I had a tow-rig that could pull 7600 lbs, I'd likely limit my TT to 5600+/- lbs, giving me 2000 lbs for propane, my battery bank, a full water tank, the weight (150lbs+/-) of my solar charging system, plus everything that I have packed inside and in the bed, PLUS the weight of my 'yaks!

Weight adds up quickly, so don't play the margin too close, planning on packing light. It just doesn't happen for most people.

[Triguy]

Be aware that most SUVs will be limited by the payload cap. What is it on yours - maybe 1,400lbs?

The towing cap and the payload cap both play into the equation. Then there are axle ratings gross combined ratings, etc. All kinds of fun math. But the payload is probably the biggest limiter with any SUV

You can use this calculator to help narrow down your weights.

Feel free to post more information and questions and we are happy to help.

You are right not to trust the RV dealer (at least without first verifying their answers to your questions). They'll generally say anything to get you to buy.

[Mountainmanbob]

take note before buying anyTHING
read some of the threads and posts regarding

bent, cracked and broken frames

sloppy welding on many frames
I guess should also be a concern

to buy a new rig
and have the frame
pull apart or slag or tear
is what is called up here on the mountaintop
a NIGHTMARE !!!

until I hear
that the manufactors that are turning out
these frames that are NO PIECE OF ART
I promise to keep making comments

after reading about
some of these frame issues
I took a little fast look at mine
I can weld much better than that
and I have NOT TOUCHED
a welding rod in many many years !!!

to say those welders on that day
were a little lazy
is to put it mildly !!!

Mountainman

[Bchecker]

Originally Posted by Triguy

Be aware that most SUVs will be limited by the payload cap. What is it on yours - maybe 1,400lbs?

The towing cap and the payload cap both play into the equation. Then there are axle ratings gross combined ratings, etc. All kinds of fun math. But the payload is probably the biggest limiter with any SUV

You can use this calculator to help narrow down your weights.

Feel free to post more information and questions and we are happy to help.

You are right not to trust the RV dealer (at least without first verifying their answers to your questions). They'll generally say anything to get you to buy.

Thanks all for the suggestions, I greatly appreciate all your real life experince, good on paper doesnt mean as much. Just want this to be a pleasant experince as possible for my family. Over the tent camping thing.