TV Suggestions for 2021 Flying Cloud 23FB

[DisCharming]

Another question from a newbie that has never towed anything.

We just bought a used 2021 Flying Cloud 23FB and are in the market for a tow vehicle that can safely pull said FC.

2021 FC Specs:

Hitch Weight (with LP & Batteries): 467
Unit Base Weight (with LP & Batteries): 4806

I am looking at a 2024 Chevy Silverado, but I can also get the Chevy Colorado Trail Boss 4x4 for less.

Since I haven't made a decision on the Silverado, the specs are different for each trim, but looks like, at least, it will be rated to pull 9,000lbs.

Colorado Specs:

310 hp [231 kW] @ 5600 rpm
430 lb-ft of torque [583 Nm] @ 3000 rpm
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
Towing Capacity 7,700 lbs

We will mostly be heading to our land which is almost entirely flat, highway driving. In the tow vehicle will be two adults, one 70lb golden retriever and some camping basics. I will have a shed on the land where I will be storing things like a generator until we get power to the site.

Again, as a total newbie, what are some recommendations for TV's for the 2021 FC? I am open to suggestions but really looking for inout on the Silverado/2021 FC 23FB combo.

Much appreciated!

[BikeCamper]

Both of those are good choices. If you already owned the Colorado, I would advise you to just stick with it.

But you don’t own either, so are free to choose the very best model for your new circumstances.

If you select carefully, the Silverado will be the better tow vehicle all-around. Higher tow and hitch rating, more payload capacity, larger fuel tank/longer range, more bed and cab volume, etc etc.

Importantly, the Silverado would “future proof” your TV for the possibility of bumping up to a 25’ wide-body trailer, if you ever decided to do that.

If it’s in your budget, I highly recommend the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine option coupled with the max-tow package in the Silverado. This is a very powerful yet efficient 1/2-ton tow vehicle.

[waninae39]

we tow our fc 25fb with our audi q5 3l
andy at canamrv.ca setup our tv

we stated that we could even tow a 27' as without issues
he recommends higher ends suv over many 150/250 trucks

[JJTX]

Originally Posted by DisCharming

Another question from a newbie that has never towed anything.

We just bought a used 2021 Flying Cloud 23FB and are in the market for a tow vehicle that can safely pull said FC.

2021 FC Specs:

Hitch Weight (with LP & Batteries): 467
Unit Base Weight (with LP & Batteries): 4806

I am looking at a 2024 Chevy Silverado, but I can also get the Chevy Colorado Trail Boss 4x4 for less.

Since I haven't made a decision on the Silverado, the specs are different for each trim, but looks like, at least, it will be rated to pull 9,000lbs.

Colorado Specs:

310 hp [231 kW] @ 5600 rpm
430 lb-ft of torque [583 Nm] @ 3000 rpm
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
Towing Capacity 7,700 lbs

We will mostly be heading to our land which is almost entirely flat, highway driving. In the tow vehicle will be two adults, one 70lb golden retriever and some camping basics. I will have a shed on the land where I will be storing things like a generator until we get power to the site.

Again, as a total newbie, what are some recommendations for TV's for the 2021 FC? I am open to suggestions but really looking for inout on the Silverado/2021 FC 23FB combo.

Much appreciated!

The full size truck will be better in all ways and is the logical choice for towing.

If you are custom ordering this truck new, ask how to max out your tow vehicle rating and make sure you have a 3.55 rear or 3.73 rear if it is offered.

Also MAKE SURE they install a TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER. Factory model. It is NOT included when you order form the factory. Your dealer will install it. And since it is new truck you shouldnt be up charged for labor for that only the device itself, if at all. DO NOT USE AFTERMARKET BRAKE CONTROLLERS.




My F150 has a 3.55 rear.

[Rich Jenkins]

I think the Silverado makes more sense. It will likely have more cargo capacity (hint: cargo capacity is printed on the sticker usually placed on the drivers side door jamb) than the Colorado, I would guess.

When you consider cargo, add up what’s in the truck; namely all the people, pets, tools, bbq, etc. Then to that add the hitch weight of your rig. Make sure your trucks cargo carrying capacity exceeds that number.

I’m biased towards Ram, and had a great time towing our ‘22 GT 23 with my 1500 Crew Cab. My rig had an Equalizer hitch installed by Colonial Airstream when we bought it. I really liked that hitch. But I’m sure Chevy makes a good truck as well.

As mentioned, make sure your TV has a factory trailer brake controller. A bigger gas tank is a great option. Same for trailer mirrors. I’d also make sure the truck had a Class IV receiver and 7 way trailer connector, if these are not standard equipment. A 12V outlet near the dash for the backup camera monitor is a plus. I’m split on diff ratio, my truck has a 3.92, and is very responsive. That being said, many tow with a 3.21 diff with no problems, so I dunno. A higher ratio will generate a higher tow rating, but a 23’ trailer is not exactly huge.

4WD vs 2WD may depend on how you plan to use your rig. I’ve had both and prefer a 4x4. It gives you more options. This week I crept out of an RV Park here in the mountains of NC in 4 High at about 8% grade, on a gravelled drive with a sharp turn. I was happy to be in a 4X4.

Good luck! It’s very exciting buying an Airstream, a 23 FC is a great unit.

[DisCharming]

Thank you to all who have replied. I’m still working through the process and haven’t made a decision yet.

[Andy543]

Originally Posted by DisCharming

Another question from a newbie that has never towed anything.

We just bought a used 2021 Flying Cloud 23FB and are in the market for a tow vehicle that can safely pull said FC.

2021 FC Specs:

Hitch Weight (with LP & Batteries): 467
Unit Base Weight (with LP & Batteries): 4806

I am looking at a 2024 Chevy Silverado, but I can also get the Chevy Colorado Trail Boss 4x4 for less.

Since I haven't made a decision on the Silverado, the specs are different for each trim, but looks like, at least, it will be rated to pull 9,000lbs.

Colorado Specs:

310 hp [231 kW] @ 5600 rpm
430 lb-ft of torque [583 Nm] @ 3000 rpm
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
Towing Capacity 7,700 lbs

We will mostly be heading to our land which is almost entirely flat, highway driving. In the tow vehicle will be two adults, one 70lb golden retriever and some camping basics. I will have a shed on the land where I will be storing things like a generator until we get power to the site.

Again, as a total newbie, what are some recommendations for TV's for the 2021 FC? I am open to suggestions but really looking for inout on the Silverado/2021 FC 23FB combo.

Much appreciated!

Always go for the larger tow vehicle. You will appreciated the extra security and comfort when on the road

[JJTX]

Originally Posted by DisCharming

Thank you to all who have replied. I’m still working through the process and haven’t made a decision yet.

Let us know what you decide. But don't tow at maximum capacity of your vehicle.

[sfranklin]

Airstream trailers are notorious for having far higher hitch weights than are published. Add to the fact that you have a front bedroom only adds to that inflated hitch weight.

Looking at the baseline specs for the 23FB and what you shared about the Colorado, it would be fine....except if you go into the mountains, like the Rockies or similar. It's going to work triple time as the trailer will weigh about 6k loaded, near the Colorado's high water mark.

When I bought my last TV, I bought it with the mindset that I may one day get a larger trailer, and if I went with something that was just enough or close, I'd be back where you are now having to do it all over again. It took about 22 years, but sure enough, I got a 30' FB bunk that weighs empty what my old one weighed full. For me though, my TV is not my daily driver, it just tows and hauls stuff and just broke 63k miles.

So my suggestion would be to look more closely at where you see yourself in a number of years and if you think you'll do some serious towing, particularly in the mountains. Flatlands, the Colorado can do this in it's sleep, but give serious consideration to your future and where you'll be going and that may help narrow the lens on your choice.

[DogMomDeb]

When we got our first AS (23’ Flying Cloud), I looked at all the data and tried to keep safety and towing capacity in mind when looking for a tow vehicle. We ended up ordering a 2022 F150 XLT. At that time Ford offered a max tow and a heavy duty payload package. But to get the higher payload you had to stay with the XLT or below and couldn’t go with the shorter bed. Our final selection was an F150 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, Supercrew, 7850 GVWR, 4x4, Standard bed with Heavy-Duty Payload Package, Max tow package, 3.73 Electronic-locking Rear-Axle, 36 Gallon Fuel tank, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, Equipment group 301A with no add ons except the Pro power of 2 KW. Our payload came in at 2400 which was what we hoped for but others here have gotten even more payload.
It’s kind of overkill for our current Basecamp but I know it can stop the trailer.

[JJTX]

Originally Posted by DogMomDeb

When we got our first AS (23’ Flying Cloud), I looked at all the data and tried to keep safety and towing capacity in mind when looking for a tow vehicle. We ended up ordering a 2022 F150 XLT. At that time Ford offered a max tow and a heavy duty payload package. But to get the higher payload you had to stay with the XLT or below and couldn’t go with the shorter bed. Our final selection was an F150 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, Supercrew, 7850 GVWR, 4x4, Standard bed with Heavy-Duty Payload Package, Max tow package, 3.73 Electronic-locking Rear-Axle, 36 Gallon Fuel tank, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, Equipment group 301A with no add ons except the Pro power of 2 KW. Our payload came in at 2400 which was what we hoped for but others here have gotten even more payload.
It’s kind of overkill for our current Basecamp but I know it can stop the trailer.

I thought Ford stopped offering that configuration.... Its payload was competing with the F250s. My 2015 f150 has a 2000LB payload rating 36gal tank and 3.55, which I dont know exists, now. It might. So much changes with the Ford trucks as the years go. If even the max tow is still made with a 2000+ LB rating....

At any rate you did the right thing. You can comfortably tow a 23 international, which I have now, vs the Bambi 19cb I originally had. The truck is barely at half its rated capacity and you have lots of room for bigger camper later if you want to. Good choice! And keep that truck forever and never let it go past 5K oil changes. Full synthetic.

[Andy543]

Here's something interesting for anyone considering a choice between a Chevy Silverado 1500 and a Ford F-150:

Silverado hitch load limit, weight carrying: 700 lbs.
F-150 hitch load limit, weight carrying: 500 lbs.

Just looking at those numbers in the towing section of the owner's manuals, it would seem the Silverado is a much more robust tow vehicle. But is it really?

The Colorado, a smaller tow vehicle, allows 600 lbs. hitch load, i.e., 100 lbs more than the F-150.

[JJTX]

Originally Posted by Andy543

Here's something interesting for anyone considering a choice between a Chevy Silverado 1500 and a Ford F-150:

Silverado hitch load limit, weight carrying: 700 lbs.
F-150 hitch load limit, weight carrying: 500 lbs.

Just looking at those numbers in the towing section of the owner's manuals, it would seem the Silverado is a much more robust tow vehicle. But is it really?

The Colorado, a smaller tow vehicle, allows 600 lbs. hitch load, i.e., 100 lbs more than the F-150.

Dead weight ratings have a lot to do with the spring rate of the rear end. Remember, F150s without the max tow or FX4 offroad package, are sprung for comfort, not towing. Much much more sag with ford rear struts with are not for towing. FX4 rear, rancho or better option is billsteins, remove all that sag.

When I replaced my 2000LB rated payload rear factory struts at 50K, they were non functional on one side. The strut was completely dry. The other side was only marginal. Surprisingly it towed decent, but I could tell it needed rear struts.

Now it has billstein gas charged struts. Rancho set failed twice on me and I removed them and went to billstein. The factory ford rear's are not gas charged and are not for towing.

[gypsydad]

The numbers can make you "dizzy" as you read here, or do your own research. Suggestion of getting the more capable TV (Tow Vehicle) makes most sense for reasons stated, but don't discount the other offerings these days. The Ford Hybrid for example...has built in generator option, great mileage, all important "payload" numbers at 1800-2000lbs, which means you have growth potential, should you deiced to get a larger AS....better to think ahead than get stuck with something that may be limited to towing only the 23' AS. Also, great thing about a PU (pick up) is you can haul around that "dirty, smelly", stuff in the back...bbq, fire wood, fuel, fire pit...just saying!

[JJTX]

Originally Posted by gypsydad

The numbers can make you "dizzy" as you read here, or do your own research. Suggestion of getting the more capable TV (Tow Vehicle) makes most sense for reasons stated, but don't discount the other offerings these days. The Ford Hybrid for example...has built in generator option, great mileage, all important "payload" numbers at 1800-2000lbs, which means you have growth potential, should you deiced to get a larger AS....better to think ahead than get stuck with something that may be limited to towing only the 23' AS. Also, great thing about a PU (pick up) is you can haul around that "dirty, smelly", stuff in the back...bbq, fire wood, fuel, fire pit...just saying!

Yep. If money is no object, then you can do whatever you want, too.

[Rich Jenkins]

Originally Posted by Andy543

Here's something interesting for anyone considering a choice between a Chevy Silverado 1500 and a Ford F-150:

Silverado hitch load limit, weight carrying: 700 lbs.
F-150 hitch load limit, weight carrying: 500 lbs.

Just looking at those numbers in the towing section of the owner's manuals, it would seem the Silverado is a much more robust tow vehicle. But is it really?

The Colorado, a smaller tow vehicle, allows 600 lbs. hitch load, i.e., 100 lbs more than the F-150.

I’m asking because I’m not sure: are those numbers for a Class III or Class IV hitch? Reason for the question is my Ram 1500 is 500 lbs for the bumper (Class III) and 1,275 for the receiver (Class IV).

[RamRider]

Buy the 1/2 ton for your 23 foot AS, The smaller Colorado may be a "perfect match" but You are always better off with the larger truck when you factor in your final payload. I do not live in NY, but you do have some significant hills to think about in areas close by.

[Andy543]

Originally Posted by Rich Jenkins

I’m asking because I’m not sure: are those numbers for a Class III or Class IV hitch? Reason for the question is my Ram 1500 is 500 lbs for the bumper (Class III) and 1,275 for the receiver (Class IV).

Those numbers are for the hitch receiver using a simple ball mount. You may exceed the 500 lbs., but then you need weight distribution hitch. I don't recommend the use of a weight distribution hitch for serious towing as they create stability issues. If you want to get on the highway and keep up with the semis then you should limit the size of your trailer to whatever hitch weight the manufacturer specifies for a weight carrying (ball mount) hitch.

My point is that RAM and Ford limit the weight carrying hitch load to 500 lbs., while GM limits it to 700 lbs. It would seem from this that the GM can handle a 40% larger trailer than Ford or Ram, but they are essentially the same sized vehicle. My question to them would be, why do they call for different limits?

[JeffKim]

It sounds like you're pretty well settled on a truck of some sort, but seconding @waninae39, there are SUVs that are plenty capable of pulling a 23' when set up properly. We don't want to drive a truck around as an everyday driver when not pulling our trailer. Our Audi Q7 does great pulling our 25' Globetrotter and has more power, better braking, and handling than many trucks. Just sayin.

[Rich Jenkins]

Originally Posted by Andy543

Those numbers are for the hitch receiver using a simple ball mount. You may exceed the 500 lbs., but then you need weight distribution hitch. I don't recommend the use of a weight distribution hitch for serious towing as they create stability issues. If you want to get on the highway and keep up with the semis then you should limit the size of your trailer to whatever hitch weight the manufacturer specifies for a weight carrying (ball mount) hitch.

My point is that RAM and Ford limit the weight carrying hitch load to 500 lbs., while GM limits it to 700 lbs. It would seem from this that the GM can handle a 40% larger trailer than Ford or Ram, but they are essentially the same sized vehicle. My question to them would be, why do they call for different limits?

Interesting.

And you are basing this conclusion…on what exactly? Personal experience?

I ask because I’ve towed with both a Class IV and Class V hitch, approximately 50,000 miles over five Airstream trailers ranging from 23 to 30 foot, using three different brands of W/D hitch. I’ve never had trouble keeping up with Semis. Your statement ‘create stability issues’ doesn’t jive, at all, with my experience.

As well, I’d say in observing most any trailer, A/S or SOB in campgrounds across the US and Canada, most every one I see is towing with a Class IV hitch, at a minimum. The only trailers I see on the bumper are yard guys with smaller open frame trailers towing grass cutters, mowers or the like.

Now maybe I don’t understand your statement, and that’s fine, but I’m really having trouble following your logic here, that would limit a trailer choice solely based on the Class III rating.

With regard to load limit on the ball, have you ever removed the bumper on your truck? I have. The one on my 5th gen Ram is held on chiefly by two bolts through the bumper skin, onto a metal H shaped frame which is made of light stamped steel, itself attached to the frame at four points. The bumper on my truck weighs maybe 8 pounds, tops. It is more decorative than functional. My guess is the different weight limits placed on Class III hitch points result from the mechanical load analysis done by the designers at Ford, Chevy or Ram.