Not yet an owner but doing homework

[Mad_Mudder]

Hello Everyone,

I am still researching my option with Keystone and really like the

Outback 290UBH or 291UBH
Bullet 290BHS

My concern is my tow truck is a 17 Chevy 1500. Here is the specs on the truck

5.3L V8
Payload is loaded to be 1502LB.
rear axle is a 3.42
Est. cargo in the truck is 700lb. Kids, dogs, wife and stuff

Should I be concerned?

[sourdough]

The 291UBH is 8200 gvw and 33'8" long. The Bullet is 7600 gvw and 33'9" long. Figuring 13% tongue weight that would be 1066 and 988 respectively for tongue weight. Add 700 to each and it comes to 1766 or 1688 - both above the 1500 lb. payload of the vehicle. So yes, there is a need for concern.

[Northofu1]

Hi Mudder, :wlcm: from Toronto

I would stay around the 30' mark or under for a trailer. a 24 or 26 model bunk house which should bring you to the 27' to 30' length. Also, Outbacks aren't the lightest trailers, Bullet, Passport, springdale are lighter.

[Gegrad]

Hey Mudder-
Given you payload and truck setup, I would look at a smaller trailer, unless you can also jump to a 2500. Those rigs are probably too much for your truck purely from a weight perspective. I wouldn't worry about length (well, except for backing into smaller spots, haha), a good WDH will handle any length trailer, but those weights will be too much.

I recently upgraded trucks purely for a weight perspective; I could tow my 29BHS at 65-70 mph and get passed by a semi cruising 80 and handle the wheel with a pinkie finger- my hitch was also tuned in perfectly. But I was very close on my weights and kids are only growing.

[Gary R.]

Hello MadMudder, welcome to the forum!

[+Ruff Rider]

As for towing I find 1/2 ton trucks are fine for towing a boat or a small camper to the lake or campground that are close to home fine. But for towing something large even if it's within the towing limits a 1/2 tone trucks are a little squishy. They don"t come with towing tires more like a bigger form of a car tire. The suspension is soft for a car like ride. Even my F350 6.7 needed air bags and my 5th wheel is well under the towing limits of the truck.
Depending how much and how far you will tow will depend on which truck to get. You will have to add air bags and better tires at the very least. Dont go cheap here and just add a spring. You wont like how the truck rides if you go that route. You will absolutely love the air bags.

[travelin texans]

Yes, you should be concerned!
TOO MUCH RV or NOT ENOUGH TRUCK, take your pick.