Quote:
Originally Posted by mblann1960
snip..... I'm looking at buying a 2014 Jayco Jay Flight 22FB. So, the magic question is...will I be able to tow this trailer?....snip
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Mark,
A number of variables play into answering your question with any confidence, one unknown is "your" loading habits..., we all load our TV's and TT's differently.
Since this is your first TT (Travel Trailer), please note:
* Focus on potential "loaded" weights, not UVW's.
* Jayco published UVW's (web site, brochures, etc.) don't reflect the actual Ship Weight. With a published UVW of 4,125lbs, I would estimate the Ship Weight around 4,500lbs UVW. The actual ship weight (UVW) will be noted on a yellow sticker attached to the TT.
* The "loaded" tongue weight will be 13% to 15% of the TT's actual (or potential)
"loaded" weight.
* The TV (Tow Vehicle) supports the TT's loaded tongue weight, so this weight is subtracted from the TV's "available" Payload Capacity.
* A TV's published Tow Rating isn't it's actual Tow Rating, refer to the following link:
http://www.jaycoowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3866
* Historically, a 1/2 ton pickup with a 4.8L engine are usually coupled with a high gear ratio axle(s) for the benefit of enhanced highway gas mileage, which isn't ideal for towing in the hills or mountains.
To determine your TV's "available" Payload Capacity, weigh your TV at a CAT scale under loaded conditions (full fuel, passengers, cargo), then subtract the CAT weight from the GVWR on your driver's door...., the remaining weight is the available payload capacity for a TT's loaded tongue weight and a WDH (50lbs).
A sample 22FB "loaded weight": (4,500lbs ship weight) + (100lbs dealer battery, etc.) + (600lbs cargo, tanks empty) = 5,200lbs loaded weight
The loaded tongue weight range of a 5,200lb 22FB = 676lbs - 780lbs (13% - 15%). This weight gets subtracted from your TV's payload capacity.
Again, actual loaded weights may be heavier then the results above depending on "your" loading habits...., keep in mind the 22FB has a GVWR of 6,500lbs.
Hope this food-for-thought helps.
Bob