more importantly than the "tow rating" is the available payload and adjusted towing capacity? Meaning, what is the payload and towing capacity after allowing for all passengers, gear, pets, and fuel? understand that 9500 lbs is for a stripped down 2wd model with just a 150 lb driver in it. Same thing for any stated payload capacity.if you haven't done so already, I strongly suggest loading your truck up with all passengers, pets and gear that will be in it when towing plus a full tank of fuel and go weigh your truck. Take the scaled weight and subtract it from the trucks gcwr to get your adjusted towing capacity. Take the scaled weight and subtract it from the trucks gvwr to get your available payload. The payload must account for anything in or on the truck. This includes everything above plus the tongue weight of the trailer.
Next you need to understand you will never tow a dry or unloaded trailer so the dry weight and dry tongue weights become pretty much useless. If you knew exactly how much weight you add to a trailer you could just add that to the stickered dry weight (sticker includes propane and batteries, brochure weight does not include those in the weight). to give you an idea of how much weight that could be, on average many will add 1000-1500 lbs to a trailer, some more, some less. Not knowing what you will add, you are safer just using the trailer gvwr for your calculations.
For the sunset trail that means a gvwr of 7722 lbs. The loaded tongue weight should be between 13-15% of loaded trailer weight for stability when towing. For a potentially worse case scenario, that means gvwr 7722 lbs x 15% tongue weight = 1158 lbs. now take your available payload and subtract this loaded tongue weight fom it. If it is a positive number and the trailer weight is less than your adjusted towing capacity then you should be ok towing this trailer. Repeat this process for the solaire using the solaire gvwr (if not listed then gvwr will be TT dry/unloaded weight plus cargo capacity).
now on to your question about the trailer itself. Sunset trail is a nice looking trailer. I have the zinger. it has been a good trailer to me. it has had a few minor issues repaired under warranty, crossroads and my dealership took care of this. Speaking of warranty, be aware that crossroads decreased their warranty fom 2 yrs to 1 yr last fall. Also be aware there has been a spike in trailer problems discussed on these boards but also remember that more people will post neg than positive comments. Sorry I don't really know anything about the solaire. I know it is made by palomino. their owners forum is on the forest river owners forums. I have been considering the sabre (Also made by palomino)as my next upgrade. not sure if I helped you or confused you but happy hunting.Edited by: anaro
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2014 Chevy Silverado 3500 SRW Duramax
2011 Zinger ZT26BL-sold
2014 Sabre 34REQS
***Member of the Mason-Dixon Group***
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