Archive for March, 2009

by Fran Crawford
Almost every RVer either has a vehicle that tows the RV or an RV that tows a vehicle for exploring while the RV is parked somewhere. In either instance the RVer(s) move back and forth from the RV to the vehicle quite frequently taking with them certain wants and needs of their daily lives. Other items in this category are often purchased in duplicate so that when needed one would be found stored in the RV and another would be stashed in the tow or ‘toad’ vehicle.

Instead of having two of each of some of these items why not fix a ‘go bag’ that holds the stuff you need and you can just grab it on your way out the door. First aid supplies, water, sun visor, sun glasses, gum, snacks or a picnic, sun block, extra set of ear buds, small pack of handy (baby) wipes, save space for a small camera and maybe your laptop, a map of the surrounding area, pencil or pen and notepad… you know what you’ll want for each trip and if your go-bag is always handy you can toss in items as you prepare to depart for any occasion.

A roomy canvas bag with easy to grab strap handles is a great thing. Mine will sit and stay open so I can pop stuff into it easily. It has a row of pockets around the outside that can hold small stuff. It is a sort of carpenter’s tool bag that I once used to hold my woodcarving tools until I got so many I needed a regular toolbox for them all.
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This question and answer was originally posted at Forum@FTRV.com

Question:
I’m looking to buy a 27 ft. fifthwheel that has a GVWR of only 5171 lbs. Can I get away with a 1/2 ton truck w/gas engine? Thanks for any information you can supply.

Answer:
The answer to your question is yes, or no, and it depends.

Looking at the 2009 towing guide for Chevorlet Silverado 1500′s, just for an example, depending how a truck is equipped, the max tow rating can be 4,800 lbs up to 9,000 lbs.

Much depends on what engine, transmission and differential gear ratio is built into the truck, and also whether the the truck is equipped with a tow package.

Never rely on or accept a salesmen’s word for whether or not a particular truck on the lot is capable of towing your trailer. Only rely on what is printed in the manufacture’s brochures and other information.

Every dealer should have a brochure that provides tow ratings for all it’s current truck models and what is required equipment. And that’s the only thing you should rely on.

If you’re considering a specific truck, you need to look at the specification plate (decal) on the driver-side door pillar. It will tell you the GVRW and tow rating as well as tire pressures and paint numbers, etc. for that truck.

The dealer may be able to use the VIN to look up the specifications and equipment package for the truck as well.

Information on tow ratings for older trucks may be available from the dealer or manufacturer and can often be found online.
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