Need help deciding on tow vehicle

[Jane H.]

I'm looking for an SUV to purchase in anticipation of buying a 21 ft. Bigfoot trailer. It will weigh about 7000 lbs loaded. I plan to RV fulltime and I've read on this site that the TV should be able to handle 20 percent more than the trailer weight. I have very few options even if I look at TV's with max tow ratings of 8400 lbs. Is 8400 lbs adequate or is it cutting it too close?. I'm looking at 2015 Ford expedition(max 9100lbs) or GMA Yukon(max 8400lbs) Does anyone have input on these vehicles or recommendations for any others? Any comments will be appreciated.

Also, if anyone plans to sell their 25B21RB Bigfoot before the end of the year, please contact me. Thanks.

[Darwin Maring]

Crew Cab Pickup. Check the models and the tow raitings.

[David L. C.]

Maybe the Expedition with tow package. My cousin in Washington has this setup for towing a 34 ft Dutchman, heavy. He says it does well.

[Uplander]

Consider crew cab pickup trucks. Just add a fiberglass cap to the truck.
By looking at trucks you will increase your towing capacity.
Don't expect any high gas mileage. Take the extra time to read the Consumer Reports test results for all trucks. Do not rely on commercial publications as they tend to pander to their advertisers. Get the true road ready weight for the trailer you select and try to add 10% to the tow package maximum weight rating.
Remember the weight of the passengers and cargo of the truck reduces the tow rating. Have weight distribution and sway control plus trailer brakes set up by a professional and be a happy camper.

Happy safe camping !

[Jane H.]

Thanks, everyone. I'll check it out.

[BigT]

Andy Tailer of Can Am Rv in London Ontario is an expert on tow vehicles. You might want to drop him a line or call him. We have used him twice with hitch modifications and the work was excellent. He writes articles in some RV magazines about tow vehicles and keeps sample tow vehicles on his lot for people to try. As well, he can recommend the appropriate tires and hitches for most vehicles.
All the Best,
BigT

[Uplander]

Not likely that Jane H will be driving up to London Ontario from Tennessee to look at tow vehicles. No shortage of professional RV dealers in U.S. To assist in the setup of all required equipment.

In the end doing it right for safe travel is paramount. It seems evident that Jane H is new at this travel trailer endeavor...she needs local assistance.
I am one who feels that having a dealer network, especially for first time buyers, is very important. IMHO that is the major shortfall in buying direct without a local dealership to supply advise and service. There is no substitute for professional guidance when setting up trailer towing for the first timers.

Happy Safe Camping !

[Paul_G]

Here's a resource you may wish to consider:

http://www.tfltruck.com/

And they have a tow test called the "Ike Gauntlet":

TFLtruck - Hall of Ike Gauntlet - Truck News, Views and Real World Reviews

Hope you find it informative and useful.
(And I'm not associated with them in any way.)

Good Luck,
Paul

[BigT]

True; but Andy might have articles she might want to read and he is just an email or telephone call away.
Take care,
Big T

[Jane H.]

Thanks. I appreciate all the advice.

[BigT]

Hi Jane;
I am trying to answer your last message but I am having trouble figuring out how to do so. I have total confidence in Andy Taylor's reply. Do you already have a Durango or is he suggesting you need to buy one?
BigT