Size of truck needed for 31' Airstream?

[switz]

We tow our 2014 31' Classic model 30 with our 2012 Ram 2500HD Cummins. We are crossing the scales when all loaded for a road trip at 19,200 pounds. We can accelerate going up the mountains if needed and the engine braking takes care of the descents.

[dkottum]

Should there be some explanation of using engine braking on wet, icy or snowy descents?

[Phoenix]

I found the ideal TV for our Bambi:

http://www.lilbigrig.com/

Can't decide between the Peterbilt and the Kenworth...

[sdnet01]

Originally Posted by DHart

A 3/4 ton should give you all the cargo capacity (payload) that you need, with extra capacity for several occupants, dogs, stuff in the bed of the truck (tonneau cover, camp chairs, BBQ, tools, raft, campfire wood, yada yada).

As for towing capacity... the diesel will pull it comfortably, no problem at all.



We pull our 2016 30' Serenity with a 2015 Denali HD Duramax/Allison and fully loaded with our stuff, dogs, etc., we've got a little over 200 pounds of cargo capacity remaining to take another passenger or two, or a bit more stuff, if needed. Towing ability - is effortless.

Thanks, appreciate the feedback - and nice pic of your rig.

[switz]

To aid in stopping our rig, especially in the mountains, we converted the Classic to disc brakes soon after buying it. I can expect rain, but do not plan on towing in the snow or icy conditions since we are based primarily in the SouthWest. Engine braking use is not wise on snow, ice or wet roads.

[slowmover]

I pull a 35' tandem axle Silver Streak with a 2004 2500 Dodge diesel.

Under 18k gross.

Though I would prefer the 3500, a change of springs is all that would be needed. All that I own is in both vehicles.

[Msmoto]

Originally Posted by dkottum

Should there be some explanation of using engine braking on wet, icy or snowy descents?

My rule of thumb is to disable the engine braking in any condition which is less than ideal traction. As it is the truck's rear wheels which provide all the braking force in this situation, if one ever looses traction your hands are full.

Attempting to find the trailer brakes and dragging them gently, getting the engine speed correct to avoid any braking effect, steering properly to restore the correct path, all will be more than most can manage and once the rear of the TV has begun to move sideways, in many cases it is nearly impossible to recover, particularly if the braking is in a curve.

Best way to manage slippery conditions with a trailer is to keep the speed way below a safe level. And, watch all the big rigs pass you by.....

My opinion only...

[switz]

If in the maintains or very curvy roads, a reduction in speed is always prudent. Unless one's tires were installed "yesterday", the amount of tread remaining is always decreasing which increases a chance for hydroplaning in rain conditions or just plain loss of traction in snow or on ice.

Most of the Airstream folks were not professional drivers of the big rigs and, unfortunately are typically 'more mature', so many may lack the instant recognition coupled with the correct action to resolve a traction issue. Speed only makes it worse.

If the windshield wipers are on high to see, the speed needs to much slower or pull off until the rain stops. Most folks are not on an schedule that requires pressing on no matter what.

[tjdonahoe]

We do like our dodge 2500 with 6.7 cummalong and 6 speed auto, it works really well with 96000 miles and no problems our 31' classic has 8800 lbs on the axles....

[pappy19]

Before going the diesel route(been there done that) if I were you, test drive a gas F250 or similar. Way less money and way less maintenance costs with great towing capabilities. You don't need a 350 diesel to tow an Aistream, and those folks that do run diesels, WANTED a diesel but did not NEED one.

[tjdonahoe]

Originally Posted by pappy19

Before going the diesel route(been there done that) if I were you, test drive a gas F250 or similar. Way less money and way less maintenance costs with great towing capabilities. You don't need a 350 diesel to tow an Aistream, and those folks that do run diesels, WANTED a diesel but did not NEED one.

I guess you haven't driven the ford 6 litre gas? That is another reason I went to the dodge with a cummalong and 6 speed auto, it is very relaxing to drive, just like my 500 hp. Cat in the KW....

[sdnet01]

Thanks to EVERYONE for your advice in this process. I have settled on my rig.

I bought a 2008 30' Airstream Classic and will tow it with a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500HD 4WD. Made the best decision I could with the information and budget that I have.

Thanks again!

[Jack Moore]

Look at the factory specs of your prospective tow vehicle. Yes, diesels have great tow torque. Today there are strong gas burners like Ford's 6.2. 410 hp and 420 ft. lbs torque. Toyata. Look at hitch tow capacities.

[tjdonahoe]

Originally Posted by sdnet01

Thanks to EVERYONE for your advice in this process. I have settled on my rig.

I bought a 2008 30' Airstream Classic and will tow it with a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500HD 4WD. Made the best decision I could with the information and budget that I have.

Thanks again!

You made a good choice, I have an 07 and no problems, keep the idle time low as possible.....

[sunskr]

Any diesel or gas (big block) truck will pull an Airstream. The whole question is payload of TV. Only you can say how much you will carry in the truck. People etc.
My wife and I two very large dogs, tools extra fuel have to go in truck, we come in around 900 to 1000 lbs without TW depending on trip length and location..

I use a 1 ton drw but mostly because of stock trailer and ranch work.

[Msmoto]

Originally Posted by sdnet01

Thanks to EVERYONE for your advice in this process. I have settled on my rig.

I bought a 2008 30' Airstream Classic and will tow it with a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500HD 4WD. Made the best decision I could with the information and budget that I have.

Thanks again!

Is this a 6.7 Cummins Diesel engine?

[sdnet01]

Originally Posted by Msmoto

Is this a 6.7 Cummins Diesel engine?

Yup, 6.7 Cummins Diesel.

[bbdo]

another factor that became apparent after a short while - fueling. with a long rig, getting into most gas stations is impossible. having diesel ensures an easy time at most any truck stop in the big-rig lanes.