CAN I PULL A 5TH WHEEL LUXURY TOY HAULER SAFELY WITH MY TREMOR. CAN I ALSO ADD MY CARLI PINTOP 2.5 KIT

Donny, glad to see some real drive stirring up in you. You are embarking on the same dream we've been working on for several years now. We have the long term plan to get a truck, toy hauler, and eventually a side by side to explore the country in. We have relatives in the south and southwest that we plan to spend long winters visiting during our winter snow bird routes. We have the truck now and we are downsizing our home situation in preparation for getting the toy hauler.

I would strongly advise that you guys spend some time acquainting yourselves with the realities of extended RV living. I say this because we have been planning our retirement adventure for a few years and because of research and following the guidance of the more experienced folks living this lifestyle we've dramatically adjusted our requirements and plans.

One of the things we have realized is that the biggest mistake people make when jumping in too quickly is going too big from the start. Often folks try to make their rolling home like their stationary home and it quickly becomes a huge burden simply because of sheer size, but also because even with that size you still can't have all the amenities and space for stuff that you are used to living with. A big problem people often find is part of their dream is to explore widely including Federal parks, BLM land and other rugged destinations. Many locations have size restrictions that will eliminate larger rigs from staying and the more rugged destinations will just not be possible with the big rigs. Also the bigger your rig and the more stuff you have along the more you have to maintain and manage in general. Everything you have to maintain is harder when you are out on the road away from your home base. It's just logistically more difficult. The less you can learn to live with the less you have to take care of and manage on the road.

What we've learned is the most experienced tailor their choice of RV to their specific RV lifestyle plan. If rugged or remote camping is the plan, going smaller and lighter is critical. If spacious amenities is a must than you will spend more time at large RV resorts and places that are set up for parking big rigs. Most people end up getting a second and then a third RV after they realize they got the wrong setup for what they really enjoy and plan to do. Many jump in blindly and end up loosing their asses because of the tremendous depreciation that RVs are subject to. Many RVs will lose 20-40% of the original value the first year you own it. The RV market is extremely inflated right now so depreciation is at an all time high right now as well.

I would strongly advise spending a lot of time watching some of the really good full time RVing YouTube channels to get a better handle on what the two of you really plan on doing the majority of the time you are exploring. You need to make sure you are both on the same page before you make your decision. The two channels I recommend are sources of the best, most honest and candid advice you can get. These folks know what they are talking about and don't sugar coat what you will experience. Again the biggest mistake people make is getting a rig too big for what they want to do and too big for what they really need and it take the fun out of the dream

YouTube channels:
Keep Your Daydream: A couple that have raised their kids living semi full time out of RVs. Tremendous amount of experience with several different sizes of RVs and the most useful advice you will find on the topic. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEhJLsShZt8McryMf_DHLZQ

Long Long Honeymoon: An empty nest couple with a small dog that have lived on the road the majority of the last ten or more years. They focus a lot on the realities of RV life and how to keep it fun and enjoyable for both parties. They have lived in a smaller Airstream travel trailer and particularly keeping simple rather than big and complicated. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw5WYtMXQ799GErKpvR_5Rw

I can't stress enough that there's a lot to consider when making this decision if you want it to be fun and enjoyable for you and your wife. The majority of RVs get used a few times and than parked for months on end because the people didn't realize what they were getting into and that they had different goals when they jumped in. You mentioned that you have never pulled a large rig. I'm guessing your wife is the same and hasn't driven a large rig around the country? Keep in mind that she will need to be able to drive this rig too. It may not be often but she should be able to at least drive it safely and with some level of confidence when and if the need arises. The biggest stressor for rookies is maneuvering and parking the rig. The bigger it is the more stress when it comes to getting into and out of camp sites, RV parks etc. There's no quicker way to throw a damp rag on the adventure than having conflict every time you have to park or maneuver in and out of congested areas. Also some States have pretty restrictive regulations regarding larger rigs. I can't speak to all the details but it is something to know about if you plan to go big and possibly over weight.

I want you to move foreword with your dream buddy, but I want you to do it with eyes wide open. You will have a blast exploring the country together, but you will guarantee a higher level of success and joy together if you avoid the big mistakes that most of the rookies make up front. I hope this helps in some way. Good luck with your dream! ?
Also check out Haylett RVs YouTube channel. “Josh the RV nerd” is honest and very genuine
 
Donny, glad to see some real drive stirring up in you. You are embarking on the same dream we've been working on for several years now. We have the long term plan to get a truck, toy hauler, and eventually a side by side to explore the country in. We have relatives in the south and southwest that we plan to spend long winters visiting during our winter snow bird routes. We have the truck now and we are downsizing our home situation in preparation for getting the toy hauler.

I would strongly advise that you guys spend some time acquainting yourselves with the realities of extended RV living. I say this because we have been planning our retirement adventure for a few years and because of research and following the guidance of the more experienced folks living this lifestyle we've dramatically adjusted our requirements and plans.

One of the things we have realized is that the biggest mistake people make when jumping in too quickly is going too big from the start. Often folks try to make their rolling home like their stationary home and it quickly becomes a huge burden simply because of sheer size, but also because even with that size you still can't have all the amenities and space for stuff that you are used to living with. A big problem people often find is part of their dream is to explore widely including Federal parks, BLM land and other rugged destinations. Many locations have size restrictions that will eliminate larger rigs from staying and the more rugged destinations will just not be possible with the big rigs. Also the bigger your rig and the more stuff you have along the more you have to maintain and manage in general. Everything you have to maintain is harder when you are out on the road away from your home base. It's just logistically more difficult. The less you can learn to live with the less you have to take care of and manage on the road.

What we've learned is the most experienced tailor their choice of RV to their specific RV lifestyle plan. If rugged or remote camping is the plan, going smaller and lighter is critical. If spacious amenities is a must than you will spend more time at large RV resorts and places that are set up for parking big rigs. Most people end up getting a second and then a third RV after they realize they got the wrong setup for what they really enjoy and plan to do. Many jump in blindly and end up loosing their asses because of the tremendous depreciation that RVs are subject to. Many RVs will lose 20-40% of the original value the first year you own it. The RV market is extremely inflated right now so depreciation is at an all time high right now as well.

I would strongly advise spending a lot of time watching some of the really good full time RVing YouTube channels to get a better handle on what the two of you really plan on doing the majority of the time you are exploring. You need to make sure you are both on the same page before you make your decision. The two channels I recommend are sources of the best, most honest and candid advice you can get. These folks know what they are talking about and don't sugar coat what you will experience. Again the biggest mistake people make is getting a rig too big for what they want to do and too big for what they really need and it take the fun out of the dream

YouTube channels:
Keep Your Daydream: A couple that have raised their kids living semi full time out of RVs. Tremendous amount of experience with several different sizes of RVs and the most useful advice you will find on the topic. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEhJLsShZt8McryMf_DHLZQ

Long Long Honeymoon: An empty nest couple with a small dog that have lived on the road the majority of the last ten or more years. They focus a lot on the realities of RV life and how to keep it fun and enjoyable for both parties. They have lived in a smaller Airstream travel trailer and particularly keeping simple rather than big and complicated. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw5WYtMXQ799GErKpvR_5Rw

I can't stress enough that there's a lot to consider when making this decision if you want it to be fun and enjoyable for you and your wife. The majority of RVs get used a few times and than parked for months on end because the people didn't realize what they were getting into and that they had different goals when they jumped in. You mentioned that you have never pulled a large rig. I'm guessing your wife is the same and hasn't driven a large rig around the country? Keep in mind that she will need to be able to drive this rig too. It may not be often but she should be able to at least drive it safely and with some level of confidence when and if the need arises. The biggest stressor for rookies is maneuvering and parking the rig. The bigger it is the more stress when it comes to getting into and out of camp sites, RV parks etc. There's no quicker way to throw a damp rag on the adventure than having conflict every time you have to park or maneuver in and out of congested areas. Also some States have pretty restrictive regulations regarding larger rigs. I can't speak to all the details but it is something to know about if you plan to go big and possibly over weight.

I want you to move foreword with your dream buddy, but I want you to do it with eyes wide open. You will have a blast exploring the country together, but you will guarantee a higher level of success and joy together if you avoid the big mistakes that most of the rookies make up front. I hope this helps in some way. Good luck with your dream! ?
Thanks for your wisdom. I like the couple Keep Your Day Dream. We love our house we live in. I love my Jaguar and my wife loves driving her Rang Rover and Convertible Stang. So as far as RVing full time, I can’t see that being something we really would get into.
Your insight was really helpful though. I have a tendency to jump into the deep end of the river rather than dip my toe into it on things I try out.
So yeah I’m going to study everything much more. JRod was saying to go used. I think his and your sound advice would be smart.
I’m starting to re think the larger 5th wheel may not make sense. I love straight up no bs views on things. Thanks for taking the time to say it straight forward for me.
GID BLESS YOU BROTHER ?????????
Don ?
 
We've gone from tents to a pop-up, to a 25' travel trailer. One of the things I've learned is to not buy new. New trailers have new problems. Get something used where someone else had to fix it.

I don't know if it's come down at all but when we bought our last trailer (last year) the market was much like the Tremor market (limited supply, long wait times, dealers reluctant to move on price). Much of that was due to the pandemic (factory closings and restricted air travel meant people were trying to create their own get-aways). I had to buy mine in Iowa and have it shipped to Colorado.

If you're thinking long weekend or week-long trips, you won't need a washer and dryer. If you do plan a couple longer stays most private campgrounds have a washer/dryer on-site. Alternatively, just head into town and find a laundromat.

I've been in 5th wheel toy haulers and they are super nice. But you'll find there are some places (as previously mentioned) that you can't stay at because of length. And some places you just can't go (boondocking) because of sheer size.

Do you need a toy hauler? You'll already have a travel vehicle. If you're interested in riding in a Razr there are many rental agencies around campgrounds that offer you that ability. Then you're not stuck paying 12 months of insurance and monthly payments for something you use 2 or 3 times a year.

If you're serious, get a tongue-pulled travel trailer with a slide-out (for additional space). Do it for a year or two to determine where you like to go, what you like to see, what you like to do. Then adjust from there. If you've never pulled a trailer you'll have to learn about tail swing when turning.
 
Looks like Ford NEEDS to make the F-450 TREMOR already. And obviously they need to offer it in a regular cab with higher trims ?

Come on Ford, WTF are you waiting for? Make it already!



Obviously they wouldn't make the regular cab F-450 Tremor, but I can dream right? :)
 
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Well I have been thinking a lot about everyones advice. We are now looking at just a travel trailer toy haulers. I love all the sound advice. I am still researching all options. I really like Grand Design.

Grand Design 29G
33' 12k GVWR hitch 1500lbs 11' garage with patio

Grand Design 31G
36' 12k GVWR hitch 1600lbs 13' garage with patio

I know I will revisit the 5th wheels also but you all have gotten me to really rethink my plans. I do like the idea now of trying it out with a smaller travel trailer.
A Used One would be a huge plus. Right now is not the time to buy with it being the prime RVing season. I would like to get a killer deal either way. Wifey likes the idea of something new but also wants a killer deal and if something is slightly used she would be all in for that. So again a heart felt THANK YOU to all of you spending so much time giving me your views from your experiences. You dudes ROCK ? ? ? ???
Donny Details ;)

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Truth .. A Regular Cab in Lariat trim with all the Ultimate accessories, a 7.3, Tremor Pkg and a Winch. Talk about the Truck of the Year !! I'd own it in a heartbeat.
 
Is there anywhere around you that you can rent one? This would be a good way to get your feet wet and really find out what you need and want.
No where on LI NY. I’m sure either upstate or NJ there would be a place to look. My wife thought the same thing but kind of hard y to I drive 100 miles or so and then rent one. But it is a very good idea. Thanks brother man for your wisdom
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Best thing to do is go check them all out see what floor plan you like and check out all the options don’t worry about future repairs working on these things doesn’t take a rocket scientist I would call the Carli company and ask them what they think the weight rating would be on that suspension kit
 
Check out ATC toy haulers. They don't seem to be what you are looking for but you never know...


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Whatever you get, I hope you end up with a toy hauler that is perfect for you! I would try to get a 5th wheel if possible, but they might put you over payload :(. Good luck!
 
I would call the Carli company and ask them what they think the weight rating would be on that suspension kit
100% worth reaching out to Carli. Great folks over there. Especially worth asking them specifically about towing.

They do call out what their replacement rear leafs are rated for on their site, though (emphasis added):

"The rear can be outfitted with a replacement Full Progressive Spring Pack (reduces capacity to a “light” ¾-ton) or factory leaf-pack modifying Progressive Add-a-Pack (eliminates the factory block and maintains payload capacity; pairs with a rear bump stop drop). This is where the F250 and F350 are a bit different. Since 2008, the main spring packs on these two trucks is different; the F250 has a lighter rate spring pack (2 main leaf springs) than its 350 counterpart (3 main leaf springs). The F250 Add-a-Pack equipped systems are a nice improvement over stock; the F350 with the Add-a-Pack is still very stiff in the rear as the main pack doesn’t move much unless loaded. We recommend the Full Replacement Leaf Spring packs for both trucks but especially the F350 given the super-stiff factory springs. If capacity is a concern, an aftermarket airbag system should be installed to complement the Full Progressive Leaf Springs to restore the F350 capacity. We recommend a system that will allow the airbags to disconnect from the lower mount during suspension cycling to ensure you’re able to take advantage of all your rear suspension travel. The Full Progressive Leaf Spring Pack will shift the axle slightly forward in the wheel well to ensure maximum tire clearance for a 37” M/T at full compression."

Source (towards the bottom of the page): https://carlisuspension.com/product...x4-diesel-3-5-systems/pintop-system-2020-lvl/
 
Check out ATC toy haulers. They don't seem to be what you are looking for but you never know...


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Whatever you get, I hope you end up with a toy hauler that is perfect for you! I would try to get a 5th wheel if possible, but they might put you over payload :(. Good luck!
Wifey prefers the smaller 5th wheel over the travel trailer in a perfect world. She said we need to see the 320G. We will look at the travel trailer toy haulers also but if it’s possible to get the 320G that’s what she said caught her eye.
Back and forth and back and forth with everything. I want to see them in person.
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Keep an eye open for RV shows. It’s a great way to see tons of them in one location. Just don’t buy from a show. They’ll make you think you’re getting a deal, but you’re not. It costs lots of money to do a show and they want to get that money back.
 
My biggest dislike about Toyhauler Trailers that share the Garage and Living space is the Smell of the Toys. Be it Fuel, Oil, Wax or Dirt it smells. Trying to sleep with those smells is even worst. I vote for a dedicated Garage Wall with a Door to the Living area.
 
My biggest dislike about Toyhauler Trailers that share the Garage and Living space is the Smell of the Toys. Be it Fuel, Oil, Wax or Dirt it smells. Trying to sleep with those smells is even worst. I vote for a dedicated Garage Wall with a Door to the Living area.
I agree that the garage is so much better overall. The cleanliness of leaving everything in the garage or undressing in the garage first is really nice. If you can get the extra bathroom for the kids even better.

Unfortunately, they don't make many large enough for a 4 seater SxS plus additional toys. There is a Momentum with an 18' garage that is about 44' but overall too large for me. Maybe once my 4 and 5-year-olds move out I can move to a smaller unit but for now, I am looking at the Genesis with over 18' space in the 5th wheel toyhauler that is around 36' overall. Even that is borderline larger than I like because of the length requirements of some campsites.
 
Wifey prefers the smaller 5th wheel over the travel trailer in a perfect world. She said we need to see the 320G. We will look at the travel trailer toy haulers also but if it’s possible to get the 320G that’s what she said caught her eye.
Back and forth and back and forth with everything. I want to see them in person.
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Here is another small 5er, I can't speak much about the brand yet, but the wife loves the front cap window as it makes the bedroom area feel more open: https://forestriverinc.com/rvs/toy-haulers/xlr-nitro/28DK5/4240
 
Here is another small 5er, I can't speak much about the brand yet, but the wife loves the front cap window as it makes the bedroom area feel more open: https://forestriverinc.com/rvs/toy-haulers/xlr-nitro/28DK5/4240
Thanks. We decided that we need the wall separating the garage. My friend pulls a travel trailer and rides his bike up a ramp and leaves his Harley in the bed but My Beautiful Harley Limited CVO weighs 900lbs and I have 50k into her. I don't want to drop it. Shes to pretty to get a battle scar quite yet.LOL. ? ? ?
 
Now my other thought is this. If I get a 35' 5th wheel it would be shorter over all length, than gettin a 35' travel trailer because 3' sits in the bed of my truck. Correct. Plus doesn't a 5th wheel handle and maneuver better than a travel trailer.
i have the itch to get me a toy hauler more and more researching all of this.
Wifey looked up Grand Design and noticed the 328M that is dealer stock. They have the 328G for sale on the RV Trader sites not the M class. The M class has the 18 cubic ' fridge and the G class has the 12 cubic' one.

A king size bed is a must also for us. Our 3 little dogs snuggle with us every night. Well with her. I need to sprall out. I have a trashed Left Shoulder from my accident and I flip over on my side very hour. My bicep has a slight tear and I have a tear in my rotator cuff and my labrum is torn. They operated on it but they won't go back in. It needs to be replaced eventually.
Donny Details;)
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