Towing

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May 20, 2011 | 07:42 PM

#16

redford

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Joined: Sep 2000

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From: Stephensville WI

I tow my classic cars in a 28 foot enclosed car hauler. Trailer weight is around 8000 pounds. My truck (see signature) does fine. Use Tow/Haul mode and enjoy the drive.

When I picked up my trailer the guy who ran the business showed me a real easy way to tell if you are loaded properly. Hook your trailer up to your truck, then lower your trailer tongue jack so it is roughly 1 inch above the ground. Load the vehicle while someone watches the tongue jack. When the jack reaches the ground you have about the right tongue weight for your load.

May 20, 2011 | 08:36 PM

#17

exiled

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Joined: Jan 2005

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Quote:

Originally Posted by redford

Good ones. So is that saying that the truck should only squat an inch? I'm going to try it out tomorrow.

May 31, 2011 | 12:23 AM

#18

GeneLaw1

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Joined: Feb 2011

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From: Atlanta, Georgia

Thanks a lot for all the helpful advice on towing. unfortunately I didnt get a chance to even tow the car this weekend because of mechanical problems with the car, and the expense of renting the trailer, I just figured in the end it wasnt worth it.

May 31, 2011 | 12:25 AM

#19

GeneLaw1

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From: Atlanta, Georgia

I think what I may do is invest in an enclosed trailer as Redford did, it seems like a great option to get those classic cars around...

May 31, 2011 | 05:56 AM

#20

redford

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From: Stephensville WI

Quote:

Originally Posted by exiled

Good ones. So is that saying that the truck should only squat an inch? I'm going to try it out tomorrow.

Not exactly. It should squat an additional inch when loaded. You will get some squat from the trailer itself.

May 31, 2011 | 08:56 AM

#21

Monster-4

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Joined: Aug 2007

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From: Millersburg, OH

Quote:

Originally Posted by GeneLaw1

I think what I may do is invest in an enclosed trailer as Redford did, it seems like a great option to get those classic cars around...

I would suggest you look into a weight distribution system as well. Ford says it's a requirment above a certain trailer weight and tongue weight. Not using one won't mean you truck will burst into flames but I find towing more enjoyable with one especially and enclosed trailer.
I personally like and recommed the Equal-I-zer brand hitches. You can find a 10K/1K model new from RV Wholesalers for $440 shipped. You can also hit Craigslist and Ebay. I found mine used on Craigslist for $200.

May 31, 2011 | 02:06 PM

#22

exiled

Cargo Master

Joined: Jan 2005

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Quote:

Originally Posted by redford

Not exactly. It should squat an additional inch when loaded. You will get some squat from the trailer itself.

Yea I just ment. What you load on the trailer lowering the truck another inch.
I've tried it and works good. However it has my tractor slightly more forward than what I like. Which is no big deal but I have a FEL and I'll have to raise it up or something else. If I'm not loading the bushhog also I've been known to back the tractor on the trailer and that's when it'll came in handy. Only problem most of the time I don't have anybody to watch for me. I've learned how to load my trailers over the yrs through trial and error.

Jun 1, 2011 | 12:20 AM

#23

Artemus Gordon

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Joined: Apr 2011

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From: Redding

I tow a 33 ft travel trailer. Check out RV Net, lots of great towing advice. I have learned much from these guys. What I learned was "take it slow"! Also I use a "Equalizer" Hitch and even with my big truck it helps stop any possible sway. It's not really necessary if it's just s one time tow. If you buy a trailer in future invest, in a weight distribution hitch.