First tow with Big Red

Cheekster96 · August 28, 2022

Howdy all...I was able to get away for a few days and went down to the coast of Maine with Big Red, our 7500lb travel trailer and pup Griffin.

All I used was a six inch drop hitch (Reese) with no weight distribution or sway control.

After hooking up the camper to the truck, I measured before and after and it only squatted 3/4 of an inch. My old half ton did more than two inches. It had the weight distribution bars and sway control but that set up would not work on Big Red. I knew this would be the only time I am getting away so I did not need a bigger set up.

It was mostly all Route 1 with hills small and big. I tried to stay around 6o mph and not push it; was not in a hurry.

So, overall, not bad. Alot more stable and confidant vs the half ton. The ass end did bounce quite a bit with bumps and dips. That kinda drove me crazy. I heard the Racho shocks are the big culprit. Might have to invest in some Bilsteins.

Getting down there I average 11.9mpg according to the trip computer, mostly a tail wind and going down grades. Coming back it was near 9.0.

640 mile trip and the odometer said 11.4mpg all together. I did do some exploring in the back roads, not towing the camper. I did one 25 miles stretch and the computer said I average 19mpg...yeah...not buying that..lol

Impressed overall. Seats I thought were comfy. Tow mirrors are good...oh..that reminds me...how do you guys set up the lower portion of tow mirror? What is your point of reference? Mine is looking at the center of the rear wheels.

The upgraded Nav worked well, XM and USB, no issues. Just the bounce. I knew what the fuel economy would be so I was prepared for that.

Installing the MBRP exhaust next weekend!!

Lee

sheath · August 28, 2022

Great first tow! Good fuel mileage too. Definitely like your travel bud. GSDs are exceptional dogs.

With this tow experience do you think you'll need the Weight Distribution System? If so, what will it take to get the system setup for the new rig?

Would be cool to get a set of adjustable shocks. Sounds like the Rancho's don't have enough rebound damping with the load. I had a set of King shocks on a 4 Door Rubicon with adjustable rebound and compression. Really helpful when I towed.

Nice camp area! I'm looking forward to getting back out on the road and heading east.

Cheekster96 · August 29, 2022

I have three GSD and decided to take the pup for a quick getaway.

Probably will not get a weight distribution. I am guessing the tongue weight is no more than 750lbs max. Sway control, yes.

Trans temp never got above 186 on a 80 degree day. Happy with that. I saw 220 on the half ton.

So far so good!

NE18 · September 3, 2022

Which campground in Maine? Seems like the site is private and spacious. We’ll probably upgrade to a 3/4 ton at some point but not until things quiet down.