2013 Chevy Express 3500 vs. Jay Flight 32BHDS?

[glbtrekker]

We are hoping to purchase a new travel trailer in the near future and just wanted to get some advice concerning the tow-ability of our proposed TT. We tow principally in the southeast with trips of 1-2,000 miles freeway use. We do not dry camp and mostly haul with tanks empty. I do try to keep speeds under 65mph.

First the details, our tow vehicle is a 2013 Chevy Express 3500 with the standard wheelbase of 135", it has the 6.0L combined with the 6 speed transmission and the 3.42 rear end. Curb weight is 6087#'s with a GVWR of 9600. Payload is 3513 according to our VIN. Tow rating is 9700 with a GCWR of 16000. Our van has a Curt V5 receiver and is wired with a Prodigy P3 brake controller. No hitch yet, but am looking at either an Equalizer or Dual Cam.

We have been look at the Jayco 28BHBE which I believe that our van will handle without a problem, but we really like the 32BHDS better. The problem is of course an extra #1,000 plus a couple of feet longer. Am I crazy to even consider this?

Here are my calculations:
Van 6087
Camper 8200
People 500
Cargo 1500
Total 16,287 which puts me right at (slightly over) GCWR.

Payload shouldn’t be a problem, but not sure about the rest. The extra length gives me concerns as well. What do you think? Is it doable without making the towing experience miserable?

[usmc616]

I tow my 32BHDS with a V-10 Excursion. My tow rating is 9600lbs. My TT weight from the factory is 8300lbs and ready to camp is around 9200lbs. My suggestion is to look at everything you pack and take only what you really need to help reduce weight.
I would not worry about the length unless the CG's you visit have small sites, make all turns wide and rely on your mirrors. I use a Reese dual cam. I have modified my TV to improve the towing experience but my modifications do not increase my tow rating.

[ecoboosteagle]

You will be okay. The key to your comfortable rowing experience will be a good weigh distribution hitch with sway control. I have the equal-I-zer brand 4 point (1400) and very happy with it. Also LT e rates tires which I'm sure you have given your specs