diesel questions.

[Rick G.]

Need some advise. Just bought a 2013 sunset trail reserve 26bh. Have a 2003 expedition with a 5.4 engine, tow package and wd hitch. Don't know if we will be able to tow the trailer well on extended trips or should I look for a diesel. Been looking on line for used diesels like an excursion or suburban. We need seating for 6-8 people and prefer a 4x4. Anyone have any comments? Thanks.

[mark5w]

I think the 6-8 people seating requirement is going to limit you in tongue weight. It's not necessarily the grunt of the engine, it's the weight capacity that's just as if not more important.

[johnboytoo]

Had 3 4x4 diesel Excursions and while I loved them for people carrying, towing was another thing...
as stated, you want people or stuff? can only have so much of both in any large suv...

[Rick G.]

Thanks Mark and John. I'm sure there is something out there that will fit both towing capabilities and passenger capacity, just have to keep looking.

[anaro]

You might want to look into a Ford E350 or chevy 3500 van. These should allot you the payload for your tongue weight and 6-8 people. You will find diesel engine weighs more decreasing your payload. I don't think you need a diesel engine as much as you need payload capacity.

[Attman6]

Towing anything 26'+ w/8 people is putting you on the next level as far as Tow vehicle's go.... Ford F-450 CC , GM C4500 CC, even then it's gonna be crowded. Most trucks are built for 6 tops, comfortable. W/ the tow capacity of course....You could get by with a 350/3500, but again, Tight.

[Rick G.]

All great comments and I will continue to do the research. Great Forum with great members. Thank you.

[4kids2dogs&RV]

Rick, I think you're in the market for one of these.

http://www.mightymax.biz/int.htm

[Rick G.]

Thanks John. I've always been a big fan of Rams. This is exactly what I'm looking for. Only question I have is does it float and if so, how long does it float. If it does then each grand kid would have their own window to fish from.

[johnboytoo]

Hmmm,
how about a motorhome, pulling a smaller rv for the kids sleeping arrangements ?

That's the ticket... Our buddies have a phaeton that will seat 10 or so comfortably while running down the road, but only sleep MAYBE 8...

but get a little pod as a tag along and the bigger kids can sleep in it

[Lloyd]

Originally Posted by johnboytoo

Hmmm,
how about a motorhome, pulling a smaller rv for the kids sleeping arrangements ?

That's the ticket... Our buddies have a phaeton that will seat 10 or more comfortably while running down the road, but only sleep MAYBE 8...

but get a little pod as a tag along and the bigger kids can sleep in it

Excellent idea!!

[Dayle1]

Originally Posted by johnboytoo

Hmmm,
how about a motorhome, pulling a smaller rv for the kids sleeping arrangements ?

That's the ticket... Our buddies have a phaeton that will seat 10 or so comfortably while running down the road, but only sleep MAYBE 8...

but get a little pod as a tag along and the bigger kids can sleep in it

But that means using the MH for all transportation needs, pretty bothersome having to break camp just to run a single errand and leave everyone stuffed into the tiny trailer. While long and expensive, I think the custom pickup would be a better solution (yet probably still shorter and less expensive than a MH).

[Rick G.]

Thanks again John. That is definitely something to consider. We chose the 26 footer because it fits the driveway. That way we won't have to rent a storage space. We use our tv for everyday use and going to a motorhome just wouldn't work. Like my wife says "bigger isn't always better".