Hello from NH

[ResQMoore]

I've been doing a lot of reading on the forums, but I figured I'd introduce myself. I'm 21 now and have been camping since I was very young. I love camping, but its time for some changes (why I'm here).

First a little bit about myself. I'm a Senior in college studying Homeland Security and currently work as a Firefighter/EMT-Intermediate. I've done all sorts of camping and am an Eagle Scout.

My mom, my girlfriend, the dog and I still go camping every summer but our Fleetwood/Coleman Mesa just isn't cutting it anymore. We started looking at trailers and found the Forest River Rockwood Roo 21SS. We went to a local dealer and checked it out in person: we were sold. We are currently working out the purchase details.

Mainly what I am looking on the forums for is what I see a lot of people concerned when they move up in trailer size- "Tow Vehicle Performance". While the GVWR of the trailer is ~5700# and my max towing capacity is 7500# I'm comfortable, but still skeptical. I'm looking into options such as a dual cam WD hitch system, air lift ride control, improved air intake, and extended mirrors to make it comfortable and safe for me driving, but especially when my moms driving (shes not used to driving big vehicles).

any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

[bikendan]

Welcome to the "Roo Kroo"!!

from a fellow firefighter/EMT!

you should look at either the Equal-i-zer WDH or the Reese Dual-Cam WDH. both have built-in sway control. i have the Equal-i-zer and am very happy with it. you can get it from RVW for around $450 with free shipping.
i prefer mine over the Reese, since there's no drilling needed and no chains to fool with.
i added CIPA mirrors to my Avalanche which work great.
you won't need any air bags with a WDH.

your truck will easily do fine with the 21SS. my Avy has less towing capacity and i tow a heavier 23SS with no problems and no performance enhancements. it's 2WD with the same engine and same rear end.

[MtnGuy]

Welcome to the forum !!!

I agree with bikendan, if your Chevy came with the heavy duty tow package, you should be fine.

Outside of a quality WDH with integrated sway control, a proportional brake controller, and the extended mirrors, you probably won't need the air lift and intake update. Give it a try 1st with the need-to items, and see how it goes.

[ResQMoore]

Thanks for the replies- Good info. Will be picking up a dual cam WDH when I receive the trailer. I have a Draw-Tite Activator already installed in my pickup. I am looking at these for mirrors

Only reason for thinking Air-ride is that the people we go camping with have it on their 3/4 ton Silverado (albiet they are towing a 12.5K# fifth-wheel) and they love it.

[bikendan]

that's the CIPAs i have. i like them.

as far as the air bags, yea if you're towing a fifth wheel, they'll help.
but you'll be towing a ultra-lite hybrid and your current suspension will be more than adequate.

i'd save the money for stuff on the 21SS. you can always add them later if you're not happy but i think they'll only be needed if you go to a bigger trailer.