New to RVing. Is truck size for 27SAB enough?

[LewisB]

Originally Posted by Third Degree

I own a 2018 Cougar 27SAB and tow it with my 2018 F150. The 5.0 gas, 3.55, 9100, tow capacity. I have towed it all over the Oregon coast and then from Oregon to Florida. I have plenty of power and the 10 speed transmission is amazing. But I definitely know its there. I keep my speed under 65 mph, Equalizer 4 point 12000 pound hitch, and air bags. And yes, the truck can easily stop the trailer. I know I’m maxed out here. I carry no water, empty the holding tanks as soon as I can.
On the scale the total with full fuel, 36 gallons, people dog and cab stuff, 500 pounds, and the bed is empty, total is 13520. With the total GCWR of 14400, I’m a bit under. Keep the speed down and you will be fine.

I agree with Danny! Post a photo of your payload sticker with the part that says “passengers & cargo should never exceed xxx” along with your scale tickets. I’d guess you “will not be fine.” If that’s the case, it is your choice but you should NOT be recommending this to others.

[Third Degree]

Here is the sticker on the truck. The 27SAB is 6610 dry with 8800 gross. On the scales, the truck is 5680, leaving the loaded trailer with my stuff, at 7840.

[flybouy]

Your payload was 1922 lbs when it left the factory. That was before you, or the dealer added anything to the truck. So any add ons like a bed liner, tonneau cover, floor mats, tool box, tools, etc. come off that number. So do your passenger weights and anything else you put in that truck.

If your camper weights 7840 lbs. then take 13% for the tongue weight or 1020 lbs. Take off another 120 lbs for a wdh. So say 1150 to hitch up off the 1922 leaves you 772 lbs remaining. Don't forget, subtract the weight of you, anyone else, fuel, and anything else you put in that truck, including the change in the cup holder.

Now that's the numbers on the weight which I'm guessing you're over. Now you have that big wind sail box behind you riding on squishy 35 psi nice riding tires. Not a good combination.

[sourdough]

Originally Posted by Third Degree

Here is the sticker on the truck. The 27SAB is 6610 dry with 8800 gross. On the scales, the truck is 5680, leaving the loaded trailer with my stuff, at 7840.

That's a pretty good payload for a 1/2 ton. 5680 for the truck seems right. I am wondering about all the other numbers. From what I quickly gleaned you are on the edge all around. I, and those like me, like a safety cushion. It is not mandatory and folks tow in any number of situations; good and bad. If you are comfortable then maybe it's OK, but, the comment "the truck can EASILY stop the trailer" is just wrong and misleading. You have nothing to compare it to apparently. A 1/2 ton truck is not going to pull down an 8800 lb. trailer "easily"....I would term it "barely". BTDT

[wiredgeorge]

Third Degree, Do make sure you use LT truck tires on your tow vehicle with a load range E if possible. The tires that come on any Ford 1/2 ton are likely not a good idea for loads like your trailer. Your payload may be OK as 1922 lbs is better than some 3/4 tons we have discussed on this forum. The 5.0L is a good engine but torque isn't that great so in mountains you will have to push the engine a bit. On flat land towing, should be adequate.

[notanlines]

Jim, (Third Degree) I seldom give opinions on subjects concerning light weight trucks and travel trailers. Most of my experience surrounds heavy 5th wheels. However, your post giving advice to others rather than just stating what you pull with peaked my attention.
The vast majority of the regulars here have towed heavy at one time or another. But we just admit to it (most of us) and go on. But we don't tell the others that it is an okay practice. The others before me have already pointed out the shortcomings in your system. I hope you take this in the spirit in which it was given. It may not make you safer, but you need to know BEFOREHAND that your system is flawed. Then hopefully you will adapt your towing habits to the given situation.

[Javi]

I pulled a 32' Passport 2890RL GVWR 7200 lbs, with a 2012 F150 and I wouldn't do that again for free...

The trailer was in charge, not the pickup.. The 5.0 motor was plenty although it stayed in 4th most of the time, when it wasn't in 3rd..