We're 100% new to the concept of towing a trailer rather than a 5th wheel and would like to lob a general question into the air. Although we know we have much research to do in learning about hitches, ball height, etc., if you were buying a sparkly new International 27' and wanted to buy something gently used (95-2000) what might you consider? A truck? SUV? 3/4 ton? 1 ton? Is the question too general?
(GVWR rating is 7,600 lbs.
hitch weight is 790lbs
hitch ball height is 17.75)
I have similar size unit. Originally I pulled it with a 5.4L Expedition. Realized quickly this vehicle would not cut the mustard. No reserve for heavier loads or steep hills. Plus, a shorter wheel base.
Now pull with 3/4 ton Super Duty and am very pleased.
Once you reach 25 feet, you really are in the 3/4 ton sandbox. I agree with what everyone has said to date, 3/4 ton is your vehicle!
If I also were going to buy a brand spanking new Airstream, I'd read the QC threads as well.
This particular link has several links on the first post to several other model years and other threads that may be useful in identifying issues when you find one you interested in purchasing:
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We have a 30' Safari. It is probably in the same weight category or maybe even a little lighter weight than a 27' International would be. I have a 3/4 ton crew cab with a diesel engine and wouldn't want anything else. I have set the cruise on 75 MPH and cruised all day long on the flats and on the interstate through the mountains in Kentucky and Tennessee without ever loosing a beat. At that speed and in the mountains I get 12.6 MPG's. Without the trailer at that speed I get 22 MPG's. I have cruised at 65 MPH with the trailer and got 13.6 MPG's. Plus the extra torque of the diesel (dead still accelerating power) can out tow a gasser in a heart-beat. This is my first diesel and I love it. If you are looking at late '90's I would go with a Chevy or Dodge (I can't believe I said that) because there were issues with some of the Ford diesels during some of those years. Others can chime in and tell you the years and engines, I can't remember. Supposedly, Ford corrected them before I bought mine.
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2006 30' Safari - "Changes in Latitudes"
2008 F-250 Lariat Power Stroke Diesel Crew Cab SWB
Family of Disney Fanatics
WBCCI# 4821
Absolutely 3/4 ton for a 27 footer; they have the components you need for safe and enjoyable towing. In the SUV realm, the Suburban/Yukon XL 2500 and the Excursion are the only games in town. Solid 3/4 ton pick-ups are out there by GM, Ford, and Dodge. You also need to seriously consider which weight distribution/sway control system you want. One of these systems is an absolute necessity.
Remeber that an insufficient tow vehicle is the a mojor cause of a perfectly good Airdtream becoming a very expensive piece of yard art.
__________________ SuEllyn & Brian McCabe WBCCI #3628 --- AIR #14872 2005 25' Safari FB (Lucy) with HAHA 2005 Suburban 2500 Quadrasteer (Olivia) & 2004 Suburban 2500 Quadrasteer (Daisy)
I was in the same spot as you last year. With a 29 foot excella and going fulltime, finding the right tv was a month or so of looking. I went with the ford E-350 PSD. I like the van for keeping things out of the rain and snow (and safe). I went from L.I. to AZ with lots of long hills and the PSD did a good job. The MPG was around 13 or 14 and thats with 400 lbs. of tools in the van. Look into ford, I know the PSD was up for a change in 07. Better to be a little bigger then a little smaller. A 3/4 or 1 ton will do job. ask a round, this place is the best for that. Lots of folks who know the truth on what tows the best. Then go to the dealer. Good luck and see you on the road .
I dont recommend a silverado in the 1/2 ton range to tow a 27ft I have that setup and I think it is a little on the weak side according to the tow cap. I should be ok but about 60 mph is all she wants without a strain I am seriously concidering a 3/4 ton as soon as I can get out of the upside down in the truck (bought truck prior to a/s ) got a good deal on a/s
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