Hey Guys,

I was asked to move a old E350 Bucket Van for someone. I'm not sure exactly what it weights, but I think the GVW is around 8500lbs so with the boom and everything i'm guessing 7k.

It is a pretty long trip, about 100 miles. My truck description is below, and it is now SCT tuned.

The big question I have, is what do I tow it with?

I could borrow a friends Econoline 6 ton Deck Over. It is a nice trailer, but heavy (4500lbs). The concern I have with this option is the height. The van is 9ft 9in and the trailer is 33" off the ground. This is legal, but is it safe? I'm afraid it will be crazy top heavy, especially with the boom lift on top of the van.

The other option is to rent a CAM 14k equipment trailer from a place about 1.5 hours away, making for even more trailer time.

What do you guys think? Also what would you suggest hitch wise?

 

I think it is safe to tow with the deck over. What is the proposed route?

 

It will be top heavy but, not too bad. Just take it easy on the curves and corners and you should be ok.

 

Thanks! Forgot to mention that my truck also has Firestone Airbags.

It needs to be moved from NYC up state, so it would almost solely involve interstate.

 

good route.


Be sure to check the overall height once loaded. Pay attention the bridges.

 

I have a 6 Ton Pintle/Ball combination, but non-WD or anything, would that be sufficient?

 

Yeah it will be fine. a pintle ball works well for the application.

 

I believe anything over 13, or 13.5 feet tall requires a permit so you should be good there, but none the less I would caution back roads, as the power lines and such tend to be hanging lower than they should. I have torn a pole clean out of the ground before due to snatching power lines.

I wouldnt sweat it though. Just make sure your chained down correctly. Not a good practice, but I usually chain the vehicle down to the point it squats the vehicle pretty good. This keeps the vehicle from body rolling. In the towing world its a big no no though.

I have pulled a F450 pulling a 40' 5th wheel camper before. I move 30 squares of shingles (8,600 lbs of pay load) with no problem.