Changing from Class A back to Truck & Travel Trailer

[RMSmith]

Well, the several year experiment is now over. We had a 2008 Winnebago Destination/Class A for about five years. Life shifted and it spent the last two years in the driveway, albeit with monthly one hour drives to keep it in shape. It was a great experience.

Now, it is nearly sold. We are returning to a Chevy 1500 & travel trailer. Hopefully, for proven reputation - the Winnebago line.

This was an easy decision, all things considered.

Winnebago appears to have great options and a reasonable reputation in the Travel Trailer sector.

What do I need to know now?

[DavidM]

OK, with a Chevy 1500 as your TV you can pull most middle weight trailers. So consider a fifth wheel. A fifth wheel has several important advantages over a conventional trailer:

1. It is more stable towing. Sway is a non issue because the tongue weight is always high and it is right over the rear axle, so there isno lever arm from the hitch to introduce and worsen sway.

2. It is more maneuverable in reverse. The geometry of the pivot point being over the rear wheels improves your ability to back into tight places. And the overall length is shorter.

3. There is more room inside. If you compare the largest TT that your Chevy can tow vs the largest 5th wheel, the 5th wheel has 20% more room. Why, because of the sleeping area overhang and its easier towing ability, the 5th wheel can incorporate more room.

The only downside is that it won't work with an SUV, but youalready have a Chevy 1500, right!!

David

[RMSmith]

David;

Great perspective. Our RV history includes two pop-up tent trailers, a travel trailer, fifth wheel, & the Class A. The fifth wheel was okay, but the expense for the Chevy Silverado 2500 HD for day to day use was excessive. (Our daily commute is 70 miles round trip.). The 1500 & travel trailer is a rational compromise for the two of us, and our loyal Labrador Retriever. As long as it is not raining, we stay outside anyways.

Tnx for the rational alternative.