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Old 09-04-2011, 07:15 PM   #1
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1981 31' Excella II
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What type of hitch do I need?

I am looking at a 78, 28 ft Airstream and I need to know what size ball I need for my hitch. I don't know if this one comes with a hitch or not. I think they use a 2-5/16 ball but I am not sure. I think I am good for 500lb and 5000lb total weight without load distribution. If I find something out of town I don't want to have to make a second trip down there to pick it up after getting a hitch. My tow vehicle is a 2000 Ford Excursion with a tow package and bigger trans cooler.

Perry
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Old 09-04-2011, 07:53 PM   #2
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2 5/16" ball is correct, but I wouldn't pull a 28' trailer just on the ball with anything short of a Kenworth. Just my opinion, and YMMV.
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Old 09-04-2011, 08:08 PM   #3
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What type of hitch do I need?

Realistically, you will need a weight distributing hitch for a 28', 1978 Airstream Ambassador. Airstream lists the base empty weight for a coach without any options, accessories, or fluids as 4,630 for the twin model and 4,690 for the double model . . . dry hitch weights are listed as 550 for the twin and 575 for the double again for a coach without options, accessories or fluids. The standard ball size would be 2 5/16".

The fact sheet for Airstream dry weights is attached to this post.

Good luck with your acquisition!

Kevin
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File Type: pdf Airstream weights and measures.pdf (100.1 KB, 75 views)
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Old 09-04-2011, 08:37 PM   #4
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1981 31' Excella II
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Well I plan I getting a load distributing hitch I am just trying to get it home. I see yahoo with 1/2 ton truck pulling them all the time without the LD hitch. Not saying they should be though.

Perry
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Old 09-05-2011, 01:06 AM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by perryg114
Well I plan I getting a load distributing hitch I am just trying to get it home. I see yahoo with 1/2 ton truck pulling them all the time without the LD hitch. Not saying they should be though.

Perry
I use a WD, but I pulled a horse trailer with a pair of 1,500 lb beasts behind a 1/2 ton Suburban for years...and in all those years of towing them from show to show, I never saw anyone using a WD system. You'll be fine - many of us survived decades without seat belts, airbags and gps too. There is merit in safety systems but common sense and preparation is likely just as effective.
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Old 09-05-2011, 01:25 PM   #6
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1981 31' Excella II
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Well I just got a used Reese Load Distributing hitch and sway bar for $150. It looks pretty sturdy.

Perry
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