New Trailer, New Vehicle, New To RV'ing, Sort of

woggy718 · 10-09-2018, 07:48 AM

Good morning all!

I just joined the forum and just joined the camper community in general. (well sort of)

First off, I grew up in Northern Indiana, in the Mecca of Recreational Vehicles. In fact, my parents worked for several of the manufacturers growing up. I was there when Four Winds/Dutchmen first started back in the 90's before they sold out to Thor Industries. I had spent many many hours and many miles in Class C and Class A units growing up as my parents were delivery drivers and dealer network reps.

Fast forward to today, my wife and I recently purchased a gently used 2018 Jayco 28 BHBS and we will take possession in early November. We have 2 young kids (8 and 5) and love taking others with us when we go. While this is our very first camper we have owned, we have rented campers numerous times in the past.

So here we are. We will be towing our camper with a 2018 GMC Yukon XL Denali, (6.2L gasoline engine and a 7,800 lb towing capacity). The dry weight of our unit is 6,800 lb so it gives us about 1,000 lbs of wiggle/cargo room. I know that we won't be carrying full water tanks anywhere. While I know this isn't the ideal set up, I feel with the proper equipment (WD Hitch, Sway Control, Electric break controller, and proper load planning), we can make it work.

Towing heavy loads that push the limit of my tow vehicle is nothing new to me. I had worked in an occupation for 3 years that was constantly taxing the limits of my tow vehicle. And although I wouldn't consider this the smartest thing I ever did, I used to tow around the midwest a 10,000 lb combined weight boat and trailer with a Chevy Tahoe.

What I learned from that experience was just don't be in a hurry to get anywhere and Leave plenty of space between you.

Anyways, I just wanted to introduce myself to the group, as I will be coming here frequently for advice, I'm sure.

Glad to be here!