GWVR/GAWR question

[nigeleccleston]

I am considering downsizing my TV from a Hyundai Santa Fe Limited to a Subaru Outback. I pull a 1997 Scamp 13 standard and take a couple of 4000 mile trips annually.
I have read dozens of threads on the merits of the 2.4 vs. 3.6 Outback engines, necessity for trailer brakes, etc. - thank you all for posting!
However, I am confused about some of the advice I read that one should limit the amount of weight carried in the TV (especially in the rear of the TV). It seems to me that if I am well within the GWVR and GAWR limits (including hitch weight of 200 lbs or less) I should be OK. Thoughts?

[Jon in AZ]

Yes. You are thinking correctly. Most people never do an axle-by-axle weighing with the vehicle fully loaded for travel, but that’s a good move when you know you’re close.

The cautions come from the concern that 200# of hitch weight plus rear seat passengers or cargo could exceed the rear axle weight rating. Weigh and you’ll know.

Happy travels!

[Jon in AZ]

Late thought... it would sure be helpful to know the unloaded rear axle weight before committing to purchase this vehicle. That, combined with the rear GAWR, will give you some idea of how much you really have to work with. May be less than you think.

[Radar1]

We enjoyed towing our 16' Scamp with the 2.5 4 cyl Outback but had to pack really light to meet the 2700/200 weight limits. You shouldn't have as much trouble meeting the limits with your 13' Scamp. We never did take it up mountains out West although it performed well in the GA and NC mountains.
I believe both the 4 cyl and 6 cyl have the same 2700/200 limits now, although earlier 6 cyl models had a 3000 lb limit.
Next years Outback (2020) is supposed to have a 3500 lb tow rating if you get the optional turbo engine that is used in the current Ascent, so that might be a good option if you plan to upsize your camper in the future. I suspect that will include a 350 lb tongue weight limit but don't know for sure. It would be nice if all models of next years Outback had the 350 lb tongue weight limit.

[gordon2]

Originally Posted by Radar1

We enjoyed towing our 16' Scamp with the 2.5 4 cyl Outback but had to pack really light to meet the 2700/200 weight limits. ....

IMHO a tongue weight limit of 200 lbs means that the total trailer weight is limited to 2000 lbs (to remain at 10% on tongue) even if its listed as 2700, and even that is pushing it to the limit which I would never suggest.

I'm not saying anyone does this, but if your trailer total weight is even well under the 2700 limit - lets say 2500, and you max out the tongue weight at 200.. 200/2500 is only eight percent. Very likely to be an unstable rig.

Meanwhile a tug rated at 3500/350 usually handles a Scamp 16 well.

The numbers are different for a 13 but the concept is the same.

[Radar1]

Just looked at Subaru's website and they confirm the 2020 Outback will have a 2700/270 weight limit on the 2.5 boxer engine, and a 3500/350 weight limit with the 2.4 turbo engine.
I'm glad to see the standard tongue weight is being bumped up from 200 to 270 lbs, that is a great upgrade.

[Jon in AZ]

Originally Posted by Radar1

Just looked at Subaru's website and they confirm the 2020 Outback will have a 2700/270 weight limit on the 2.5 boxer engine, and a 3500/350 weight limit with the 2.4 turbo engine.
I'm glad to see the standard tongue weight is being bumped up from 200 to 270 lbs, that is a great upgrade.

Nice! And overdue. In my opinion the base engine will be adequate for a 13’er, but I’d want the 2.4T for a 16’er.

[nigeleccleston]

Fiberglass RV always has the answers

[floyd]

Originally Posted by Radar1

Just looked at Subaru's website and they confirm the 2020 Outback will have a 2700/270 weight limit on the 2.5 boxer engine, and a 3500/350 weight limit with the 2.4 turbo engine.
I'm glad to see the standard tongue weight is being bumped up from 200 to 270 lbs, that is a great upgrade.

Perfect example...
Its a good bet that the 350# tongue weight is the result of J2807.
Just the arbitrary 10%.

Most likely no difference at all in the chassis/suspension with either engine.
Likely not even different brakes.