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Barronz · 02-28-2015, 08:19 PM

Hi everyone, I just bought a 2004 25' International CCD that I will be picking up in a month, and on my learning curve here. I currently own a 2004 Ford Explorer V6. I presume a better tow vehicle is needed. Is this a suitable vehicle even for short term? Anyone with any experience with hauling and this vehicle?
Thanks,
Barry

**moosetags** · 02-28-2015, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barronz

Hi everyone, I just bought a 2004 25' International CCD that I will be picking up in a month, and on my learning curve here. I currently own a 2004 Ford Explorer V6. I presume a better tow vehicle is needed. Is this a suitable vehicle even for short term? Anyone with any experience with hauling and this vehicle?
Thanks,
Barry

I have a lot of experience towing 25 foot Airstreams. The trailer you are referring to will weigh somewhere north of 7000# with an 800# tongue. That would be a really tall order for a V6 Explorer.

Brian

Tom Nugler · 02-28-2015, 08:45 PM

Without knowing more about the options on the Explorer its hard to say
I did a quick look at Trailer Lifes Tow rating for 2004.
http://www.trailerlife.com/wp-conten...Guide-2004.pdf
Max for all Explorers is about 7000# empty.
I have towed with TVs right at the margin. Its not fun, or very safe.

Tom

cwf · 02-28-2015, 09:40 PM

Definitely not the best TV.. you won't be happy... Perhaps renting a proper TV will give a good 'evaluation'...

How far away is the trailer?

paiceman · 03-01-2015, 05:59 AM

I've had three Explorers, the style you are referring to. All were company provided vehicles with full towing packages. Two were V/8s and one was a six banger. Although they were rated at 7,000#, in my towing experience - just shy of 50 years I would get another vehicle.

With the Explorers we towed Golf Carts - an aluminum trailer which weighted in at about 700# along with two golf carts which each weighted in at close to 800# each. Which is 2,300# total, with brakes on the trailer as she was required to have in PA.

The explorers did not handle well, did not accelerate well and did not stop in my comfort zone nor those of my sales people all of which had them. Until our leases were up we went back to one golf cart limit and when leases were up we switched everyone out to F150 V/8s with tow package.

There are plenty of SUVs that could tow an AS of 25' and under, my wife and I prefer pick up trucks for the frame they have which in our opinion provides added stability in all situations.

You might consider trading for a new F150 or a good used one, I would look at the V/8s or the Ecoboost for your size trailer, either of which will serve you well for years to come.

Have fun.

ALANSD · 03-01-2015, 06:23 AM

I used a V6 Trailblazer rated at 7000 lbs towing. It did not do very well. Ok on totally flat roads, but sorry as heck going up any hills. If you like Ford, you can easily find a 5.4 V8 Expedition or F-series that will do the job for you. YOU need to read up some on the hitches,, see CAN AM RV web site, its a good place for info in towing.

Road Ruler · 03-01-2015, 06:39 AM

Those older Explorers need help..... consider a Hensley, and or LT tires (right size) possible receiver reinforcement, and more. As Allan suggested Can Am have set up many and know what is required.

kb0zke · 03-01-2015, 06:58 AM

Welcome, Barry. You may be able to get your new coach home with your current car, but that would be taking a huge risk. My suggestion would be to either have the seller deliver the coach to your place OR arrange to pick it up after you get a better tow vehicle.

Since you have a month, you might be able to get a new vehicle before then. You know the gross weight of your new coach, and you can figure 12% of that for tongue weight. Those two numbers will help you pick the right tow vehicle. My suggestion would be to look for an F250 diesel with the tow package. I'd rather have too much truck than not enough.

Barronz · 03-01-2015, 05:47 PM

Thanks for the advices and leads everyone. "Not fun" "or very safe" were some of the phrases I was looking for to rule out the Explorer; it was my grandfather's so I hate to see it go. I've been studying up today Trucks vs. SUVs and like the Ford F250s as a possible option and see some affordable ones out here.
thanks!

dbj216 · 03-02-2015, 05:04 AM

Hi bronoz, welcome to the Airstream community. You are at the exactly right place to get your questions answered. I remember my first trailer towing experiences; nervous as heck! Take it slow and easy.

A good tow vehicle makes the job easier and safer. Air Forum members are right not to recommend your Explorer for towing your 25 footer. There are SUV type vehicles that can do it. A half ton pick up can do it better. And a good hitch set up is also important.

For me, the main thing when towing is being aware you have some 7000 pounds back there extending your braking distances, slowing your accelerations, and pushing you around in corners. It also blocks your rear view. Vehicle dynamics change greatly when you hook up your Airstream or any other heavy trailer. This awareness is very important.

You will learn it, and you will enjoy your travel adventures.

David