We have a 1994 E150 4.9 I6 Engine with a 3.55 ratio regular axle. It is an automatic with air, and a 138 inch wheelbase. Owners manual indicates 5100 towing capacity.

We are interested in an Outback trailer, either an 20RS with total dry weight of 3490 and carrying capacity of 2010, or a 23RS with total dry weight of 3950 and carrying capacity of 1550.

Not sure if we are out of the ball park with either of these options. We are new to RVing, so any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

 

You need to check the total weight carrying capacity of the trailer. Remember that you have to subtract the weight of passengers, luggage, fuel, etc from your GCWR (gross combined weight rating). A 3900 lb trailer with 1,000 pounds of gear, including water, propane, etc, doesn't leave you any room for passengers. I think if you got the trailer, kept it lightly loaded, make sure the tranny doesn't 'hunt' when towing, that you'd be OK. A weight distributing hitch well help alot for towing ease, safety and peace of mind. And NEVER go over your weight rating. There are unscrupulous companies that will sell you overload springs and other gadgets that they say will increase your tow rating. RUN if they say that, cause NOTHING short of lower (higher numerically) rear-end gears will increase your tow rating, if even then. And finally; RV manufacturers have a habit of 'underestimating the ACTUAL weight of their products. Talk to someone who has one, or hook it up, take it to the public scales, unhook it it and see what it REALLY weighs. You may be over your tow limit before you add any passengers, gear, fluids, etc. Hope this helps, Ken