|
03-31-2012, 08:11 PM
|
#1
|
New Member
1984 34.5' Airstream 345
fairfax
, Virginia
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 1
|
Towing with the 345
Guys,
I am new to the Airforum, but would like to see if I can post a question. I am considering the purchase of a 30 (something) foot 345 (7.4 litre) chevy driven Airstream and noticed it had a class III hitch on the back. Considering it has good brakes and solid engine, what could I expect the max towing to be with this vehicle?
I would like to pull a 2006 Jeep Wrangler (rubicon) as me and my wife are considering some cross country ventures over the next couple of years. The jeep weighs in at about 3600 lbs but could put it on a "master-tow" dolly if that made it easier.
The engine seems strong, the brakes probably need some work, but is this thing capable of pulling that comfortably? any gusses on gas mileage? (I hear the 345 gets about 7-10 by itself)
thanks
future owner 345
Chuck
|
|
|
03-31-2012, 08:41 PM
|
#2
|
Rivet Master
Commercial Member
1977 20' Argosy 20
Charleston
, West Virginia
Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 1,226
|
Chuck,
I believe the owner's manual lists a tow limit of 2,000 pounds for the 345 (34.5'). This is in part due to the air-ride suspension and part the hitch. I know that some folks have towed WAY more than that without problems. I would make sure to have your tow set-up checked by an expert to make sure the hitch installation can handle the weight/load. The hitches on these units range from just-plain-dangerous to commercial grade so it is best to have it inspected.
I would also recommend using some kind of braking system on the toad (Jeep).
|
|
|
04-01-2012, 09:55 AM
|
#3
|
Rivet Master
1989 34.5' Airstream 345
Saint Petersburg
, Florida
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,702
|
Chuck, I know that Raveson tows his Jeep Wrangler everywhere he practically goes when he's driving his 345. Met him at the Florida Rally in February. Says when he tows the Jeep, he gets between 5 to 6mpg, but he's also driving at least 65 to 70mph. Airstream Forums - View Profile: raveson
|
|
|
04-01-2012, 10:36 AM
|
#4
|
Gunter
1966 24' Tradewind
1984 34.5' Airstream 345
Greenville
, Ohio
Join Date: Mar 2006
Posts: 347
|
I installed a new class 3 receiver under mine and tow a Jeep Wrangler 4 down with no problems.
__________________
Gunter
2000 Land Yacht XL 355
|
|
|
04-01-2012, 02:44 PM
|
#5
|
Rivet Master
2000 31' Land Yacht
Central
, Florida
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,489
|
If you check the chassis, you will see where the frame was lengthened, the 2,000 may have been due to the smaller added i beam. I have seen here on the forum where someone strengthened the added beam and was towing 10000# trailer.
Of course it would have it's own braking system as most states demand it over 3000.
|
|
|
04-02-2012, 06:36 AM
|
#6
|
Gunter
1966 24' Tradewind
1984 34.5' Airstream 345
Greenville
, Ohio
Join Date: Mar 2006
Posts: 347
|
Definetely replace the stock receiver with a class 3 or greater. I found out the hard way when I was towing a 14ft. fiberglass bass boat when one side of the hitch welds broke. Luckily I was doing 20 miles an hour in a small town and was able to pull off to the side and make a temporary repair. The stock hitch is rated for 2,000 lbs. which I did not exceed at the time.
__________________
Gunter
2000 Land Yacht XL 355
|
|
|
04-02-2012, 11:14 AM
|
#7
|
Rivet Master
1984 34.5' Airstream 345
Foothill Ranch
, California
Join Date: Mar 2010
Posts: 4,695
|
__________________
My name is Steve.... and I am an Alumaholic!
Working in my Garage is like playing TETRIS with Tools!
|
|
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Recent Discussions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|