Towing with our Truck Camper! Let’s talk about MPG, Off Road, Weight… - Super Duty Build | Part 19

In this video we share our Truck Camper Towing thoughts and things to consider:

MPG – Your fuel mileage will suffer when towing. Wind drag, weight and rolling resistance all negatively affect your mpg and range. It’s important to know the towing MPG so you can appropriately plan refueling. We have seen 8-10 mpg over the past 3,000 miles this summer while towing. The truck camper is typically 10-12 mpg without the trailer.

Parking – Our total length is under 40 feet which makes it possible to park in two parking spaces. Keep in mind shorter is better for trailer parking. Parallel parking is more challenging due to the trailer tire width. The truck tires are 10-12” away when the trailer tires are touching the curb. Ideally, it’s best to have the trailer track width match the truck. Overall, parking can be a hassle and plan accordingly.

Driving – On-Road it’s fairly easy driving on Interstate highways. However, twisty mountain roads require more attention and careful driving. On narrow roads the trailer tires are nearly the full lane width. Off-Road travel is much slower! Turning around is a challenge. Rough terrain can limit travel. Biggest benefit is being about to “base camp” and drop the trailer for exploring.

Weight – Getting your scale weights is essential. Keep within your loaded trailer weight under the GVWR. Use a hitch scale to ensure 10% of the loaded trailer weight is on the tongue. The trailer hitch weight will transfer load from the truck front axle to the rear axle. Our 450lb trailer tongue weight increased the rear axle weight by 700lbs (250lbs transferred from the front axle). Stay within the GAWR (gross axle weight rating). Tire load capacity and PSI is essential for safety. Ensure your tire and wheel weight rating will support the axle weight. Then adjust your tire pressure for the weight you are carrying. Improper tire pressure is the number one cause of catastrophic tire failure.

Maintenance – Trailer wiring, hitch, chains and tires. Be sure to carry a matching spare tire. Check lug nut torque. Check tire pressure. Tire plug kit and air compressor can make many flat repairs painless.

Truck campers are excellent for towing trailers. It’s fun to bring a boat or toys on your adventures! But be mindful when preparing and cautious on your journey. Overall, we prefer the freedom of traveling without a trailer.

#truckcamper #towing #overland

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