DynamicSoCo
Advanced Member
- Joined
- May 17, 2011
- Posts
- 50
Okay, so maybe I'm a little weird, as we don't own a travel trailer yet. We've been researching them to death, and have narrowed down our choices to either a Jayco X17Z or a Starcraft 176RB, but will more than likely purchase the Jayco for the better warranty, location of dealer, and competitive price. I've been reading as much as possible on every topic imaginable so that we can be as informed as possible. Though there are Jayco/Starcraft units we like better than the ones listed above, we are limited by our tow vehicle, and replacing the tow vehicle is not an option for a few years. We are limited to a MAX GVWR of 3500 lbs, and that will be at the max rating for our tow vehicle. We have a 2006 Sienna, and though I know it CAN tow more than 3500, I don't feel comfortable exceeding the rating that Toyota has put in place, though I'm pretty sure the figure is fairly conservative. As a matter of fact, I know there are Sienna owners towing nearly 5,000lbs, and though the van can probably tow it OK, I don't know about towing that kind of weight safely. When we are able to replace our tow vehicle, it will probably be with a Tundra. At any rate, we are saving up to buy our TT outright, as we do not want another payment. We will be primarily camping locally, and not towing in the mountains, as we will be at our towing limit already, so I'm aware of the limitations placed on us by our current vehicle. We are a family of 4 - two adults, a 4 year old daughter, and our 6 year old son. We think that the X17Z layout and sleeping arrangements will suit us for some time to come, and although we like the Jayco 23B a little better, that unit is simply too heavy for us at this point in time, though maybe after upgrading our TV, we may upgrade to a larger trailer. At any rate, I am learning a lot from this website, as well as a few others!