Towing Capacities GVWR and UVW

[sn95joe84]

Wondering if I can pick the brains of some people with more experience with towing than I have.

I am interested in taking my life on the road and living in a camper trailer to do travel work. I love my Ranger, but the trailers I am interested in are close to 7500 GVWC and around 5000-6000 Dry Weight.

My questions for you fine people are:

1. Could I tow this if only carrying <1,000 lbs of gear, or is it a bad idea? This one is just OVER GVWR by 108 lbs, but would be under 7500 total with what I plan to bring:

https://www.bluedogrv.com/product/new-2022-forest-river-rv-cherokee-grey-wolf-23mk-1627702-29

• UVW5,341 lbs.
• Hitch Weight608 lbs.
• GVWR7,608 lbs.
• Cargo Capacity2,267 lbs.

• Length	29 ft
  Ext Width	8 ft
  Ext Height	10 ft 6 in

2. Could I tow this with <1000 lbs of gear, or is it a bad idea? This on is just UNDER GVWR, and would stay under 7500 with what I plan to bring:

https://forestriverinc.com/rvs/travel-trailers/grey-wolf/24JS/4353

Hitch Weight:470 lb.
GVWR:7,470 lb.
UVW4,443 lb.
CCC3,027 lb.
Exterior Length:27' 3"
Exterior Height:10' 6"
Exterior Width:96"

I really don't know a thing about towing, so rip away if this is totally unrealistic - I am just looking to be safe here and to get some advice; would really love to do this with my Ranger but I don't want to live in a tiny box.

Thanks in advance!

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[Danager]

Similar discussion on the go here:
https://www.ranger5g.com/forum/thre...you-have-any-xp-with-this-much-trailer.17914/

 

[sn95joe84]

Thank you - I guess at the heart of my question.... is it a horrible idea (illegal, problem to insurance, ect) to tow something slightly over GVWR if you're actually only towing <7500 lbs loaded?

 

[Big Blue]

Thank you - I guess at the heart of my question.... is it a horrible idea (illegal, problem to insurance, ect) to tow something slightly over GVWR if you're actually only towing <7500 lbs loaded?

Yes it is a horrible idea. If you plan on full time RVing you need a bigger truck. Or get yourself a class A motorhome and tow your Ranger.

 

[P. A. Schilke]

Wondering if I can pick the brains of some people with more experience with towing than I have.

I am interested in taking my life on the road and living in a camper trailer to do travel work. I love my Ranger, but the trailers I am interested in are close to 7500 GVWC and around 5000-6000 Dry Weight.

My questions for you fine people are:

1. Could I tow this if only carrying <1,000 lbs of gear, or is it a bad idea? This one is just OVER GVWR by 108 lbs, but would be under 7500 total with what I plan to bring:

https://www.bluedogrv.com/product/new-2022-forest-river-rv-cherokee-grey-wolf-23mk-1627702-29

• UVW5,341 lbs.
• Hitch Weight608 lbs.
• GVWR7,608 lbs.
• Cargo Capacity2,267 lbs.

• Length	29 ft
  Ext Width	8 ft
  Ext Height	10 ft 6 in

2. Could I tow this with <1000 lbs of gear, or is it a bad idea? This on is just UNDER GVWR, and would stay under 7500 with what I plan to bring:

https://forestriverinc.com/rvs/travel-trailers/grey-wolf/24JS/4353

Hitch Weight:470 lb.
GVWR:7,470 lb.
UVW4,443 lb.
CCC3,027 lb.
Exterior Length:27' 3"
Exterior Height:10' 6"
Exterior Width:96"

I really don't know a thing about towing, so rip away if this is totally unrealistic - I am just looking to be safe here and to get some advice; would really love to do this with my Ranger but I don't want to live in a tiny box.

Thanks in advance!

Hi Joe,

Ford tests its trucks above GVW by a small amount, which is proprietary value, for just like you are proposing as there is little likelyhood you will stay under the weights you are estimating. You leave no margin for error.... So. DON'T DO IT!

JMO!

best,
Phil

 

[EJH]

Listen to Phil.

 

[sn95joe84]

Hi Joe,

Ford tests its trucks above GVW by a small amount, which is proprietary value, for just like you are proposing as there is little likelyhood you will stay under the weights you are estimating. You leave no margin for error.... So. DON'T DO IT!

JMO!

best,
Phil

I really appreciate the insights, I will probably go for something smaller. I found one with a GVWR 7000 lbs, does that seem more reasonable? I’m looking to add a rear swaybar and possibly the fox shocks if that helps stiffen to prevent sway.

I really don’t want to ditch my Ranger.

thoughts/feedback welcomed. Thanks in advance

 

[Big Blue]

I really appreciate the insights, I will probably go for something smaller. I found one with a GVWR 7000 lbs, does that seem more reasonable? I’m looking to add a rear swaybar and possibly the fox shocks if that helps stiffen to prevent sway.

I really don’t want to ditch my Ranger.

thoughts/feedback welcomed. Thanks in advance

You have admitted to having no towing experience, so listen to the people who do. I fear you are strictly looking at numbers and not the many other factors involved in full time RVing. Yes, by the numbers, the Ranger is a very capable tow vehicle and capable of towing the weights you are looking at. Sure the occasional load of lumber, a car or some other heavy equipment. Maybe even pulling a trailer that big up to a lot in the spring and back in the fall. But day in and day out across country in all the conditions and terrain you will encounter, the Ranger is just not made for that. I totally understand your want for the biggest living conditions possible. But you need to rethink your choice of tow vehicle. To do what you are wanting to do, you really do need to look at something like a one ton diesel truck with a big fuel tank. You will also be must more comfortable living out of a bigger truck.

Still think a better solution is a motor home and towing your Ranger.

 

[sn95joe84]

You have admitted to having no towing experience, so listen to the people who do. I fear you are strictly looking at numbers and not the many other factors involved in full time RVing. Yes, by the numbers, the Ranger is a very capable tow vehicle and capable of towing the weights you are looking at. Sure the occasional load of lumber, a car or some other heavy equipment. Maybe even pulling a trailer that big up to a lot in the spring and back in the fall. But day in and day out across country in all the conditions and terrain you will encounter, the Ranger is just not made for that. I totally understand your want for the biggest living conditions possible. But you need to rethink your choice of tow vehicle. To do what you are wanting to do, you really do need to look at something like a one ton diesel truck with a big fuel tank. You will also be must more comfortable living out of a bigger truck.

Still think a better solution is a motor home and towing your Ranger.

Hey Lee - thanks for your response, make no mistake - I am here asking for feedback and I appreciate getting everyone's take. I am out in Oregon and my plan is to spend the summer in Idaho, then circle back to the Midwest where I grew up for fall, and head somewhere in the SW for winter 22-23. Each stop will be about 3 months with a full week or more in between to travel.

I am wanting to give myself plenty of time to get from place to place, so I am hoping to take it SLOW (seriously, slow) between each leg of the trip. With that being said, there are certainly going to be days with bad weather, wind, and/or grades to deal with. My hope is that in giving myself enough time, I could wait out bad conditions or high winds and go as slow as necessary to stay safe.

I don't know that a motorhome would work for me financially, but I am considering a different tow vehicle even though I LOVE my Ranger because I really do want to have enough space to be comfortable.

I'd welcome any recommendations on a different truck - if it comes to that. Looking at lightly used Nissan Titans. Thanks again to everybody who responded.

 

[Big Blue]

Hey Lee - thanks for your response, make no mistake - I am here asking for feedback and I appreciate getting everyone's take. I am out in Oregon and my plan is to spend the summer in Idaho, then circle back to the Midwest where I grew up for fall, and head somewhere in the SW for winter 22-23. Each stop will be about 3 months with a full week or more in between to travel.

I am wanting to give myself plenty of time to get from place to place, so I am hoping to take it SLOW (seriously, slow) between each leg of the trip. With that being said, there are certainly going to be days with bad weather, wind, and/or grades to deal with. My hope is that in giving myself enough time, I could wait out bad conditions or high winds and go as slow as necessary to stay safe.

I don't know that a motorhome would work for me financially, but I am considering a different tow vehicle even though I LOVE my Ranger because I really do want to have enough space to be comfortable.

I'd welcome any recommendations on a different truck - if it comes to that. Looking at lightly used Nissan Titans. Thanks again to everybody who responded.

Hi Joe,
Not trying to be a nay sayer but, the Ranger is just not big/heavy enough to deal with travel trailers the size your looking at. Towing a TT is a world of difference between towing a loaded low trailer or even a cargo trailer. The amount of side area for wind of any amount is substancial. And believe me there are very few totally calm days and there will always be semis to deal with. The Ranger also has a short wheelbase to deal with a trailer that long. Pick your brand, but a full size truck of any will be a better choice. JMO, at least a 3/4 ton size. You mileage will be crap no matter what and the Ranger will have you looking for gas every 150 miles for sure.

What part of the mid-west are you from? I've been out to the Dakotas many times to family reunions, wifes side, then extended trips to Yellowstone and the Black Hills. Also out East to Canada and the East coast. All pulling a popup. Currently pulling a Forest River Rpod with the Ranger. About 4200 pounds loaded, 21 foot hitch to spare. Ranger pulls it great, about 10.5 mpg. Did 4700 miles to the SW list spring.

Hope all the suggestion help you with your decision. Pulling a TT that big is a big decision for someone with little to no towing experience. Just trying to manuever that thing will be a treat. Whatever you decide be safe.

 

[Frenchy]

To put things simple in end any further discussion as long as you are within Towing specifications you will be fine. You have a Max towing capacity of 7500 lb on your truck. As long as the trailer with load does not exceed 7500 lb you will be fine. At the same time you need to make sure you do not exceed 750 lb of tongue weight. With that said make sure you are being smart while Towing. Yes there are plenty of conditions out there that can affect the entire ride while Towing. Do yourself a favor and make sure you are within specifications I'm drivesmart when towing.

 

[P. A. Schilke]

You have admitted to having no towing experience, so listen to the people who do. I fear you are strictly looking at numbers and not the many other factors involved in full time RVing. Yes, by the numbers, the Ranger is a very capable tow vehicle and capable of towing the weights you are looking at. Sure the occasional load of lumber, a car or some other heavy equipment. Maybe even pulling a trailer that big up to a lot in the spring and back in the fall. But day in and day out across country in all the conditions and terrain you will encounter, the Ranger is just not made for that. I totally understand your want for the biggest living conditions possible. But you need to rethink your choice of tow vehicle. To do what you are wanting to do, you really do need to look at something like a one ton diesel truck with a big fuel tank. You will also be must more comfortable living out of a bigger truck.

Still think a better solution is a motor home and towing your Ranger.

Hi Lee,

Well said!

best,
Phil

 

[9zero1790]

more tow vehicle than you "need" IS what you need. think of it like shooting angry grizzly bears. sure, a 22 long rifle will kill a bear, eventually. while waiting on that the bear may eat you lol. when folks think an encounter with a bear is possible they bring real fire power. "loaded for bear". if you want to tow often and be comfy you need a loaded for bear truck. skip the half tons. go one ton or at least 3/4 and get a bruiser of an engine and stout gearing. not only will it be less stress on the ranger but safer.

 

[JimG_AZ]

You have admitted to having no towing experience, so listen to the people who do. I fear you are strictly looking at numbers and not the many other factors involved in full time RVing. Yes, by the numbers, the Ranger is a very capable tow vehicle and capable of towing the weights you are looking at. Sure the occasional load of lumber, a car or some other heavy equipment. Maybe even pulling a trailer that big up to a lot in the spring and back in the fall. But day in and day out across country in all the conditions and terrain you will encounter, the Ranger is just not made for that. I totally understand your want for the biggest living conditions possible. But you need to rethink your choice of tow vehicle. To do what you are wanting to do, you really do need to look at something like a one ton diesel truck with a big fuel tank. You will also be must more comfortable living out of a bigger truck.

Still think a better solution is a motor home and towing your Ranger.

A 1-ton diesel to pull that trailer? Do you recommend the SRW or the DRW model? No doubt a 3/4-ton or 1-ton would pull that trailer incredibly well, but this may be extreme. Seriously, why would the F-150 3.5L Ecoboost not be a good choice to pull this trailer?

To the OP, if you do decide to jump up to a 3/4-ton or 1-ton, I would seriously start looking at 5th wheel trailers rather than a bumper pull. First, they pull better due to the pivot point being at the rear axle. Second, if you compare a 5th wheel to a comparable length bumper pull, the trailer able length is shorter due to part of the trailer being over the truck bed. This makes them easier to maneuver in gas stations, parking lots, etc. If I were looking to full-time in an RV and drive across the country, I would definitely go with a 5th wheel.

 

[Peragrin]

A 1-ton diesel to pull that trailer? Do you recommend the SRW or the DRW model? No doubt a 3/4-ton or 1-ton would pull that trailer incredibly well, but this may be extreme. Seriously, why would the F-150 3.5L Ecoboost not be a good choice to pull this trailer?

To the OP, if you do decide to jump up to a 3/4-ton or 1-ton, I would seriously start looking at 5th wheel trailers rather than a bumper pull. First, they pull better due to the pivot point being at the rear axle. Second, if you compare a 5th wheel to a comparable length bumper pull, the trailer able length is shorter due to part of the trailer being over the truck bed. This makes them easier to maneuver in gas stations, parking lots, etc. If I were looking to full-time in an RV and drive across the country, I would definitely go with a 5th wheel.

The problem with common sense and experience is that people seldom update that to current world conditions. Most experience is gained over time. Today's ranger tows more than the F-150 of 20 years ago, and tow more than the F-250 of 30 years ago.

legnth and weight matter in towing, surface area matters more.

However some truths stick around. No matter the tow vehicle you never want to tow more than 75% of capacity regularly. if you hauled that big trailer 2 twice a year yes you would be fine. but moving on a regular basis. When picking a camper out I picked a max camper weight I didn't want to go over 5,000 lbs. That way I can add 500-1000lbs worth of stuff. (and it adds up quickly) and be under 80% of the tow capacity. (a little high, but on long trips we will take 2 vehciles anyways

while a vehicle may be tested to that tow amount for extended time. it creates extra wear on the vehicle.

I say this as in 1988 my dad bought a Ford Aerostar mini van for the family. that van towed a 4,000 lb boat dozens of times over hundreds of miles every summer for 10 years. It also went through 2 transmissions, and 6 alternators.

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