quote:

f they're running tandem axle OTR trucks with single tires instead of dual and 53' trailer. It's because they are carrying a much lighter load. Styrofoam and things like that, that take up an entire semi trailer but aren't heavy and dense such as wheat. The single tire tandem axle, severly effects a tractor trailers overall load carrying capacity/rating.

Nope. Same weight as the dual trucks carry. 80,000 pounds.

Ali, you are getting yourself into one of your little tizi's brother. It is ok for people to have different opinions and experiences and yours is not the only one that matters.

Take deep breath and find a different task for a bit. You are up to 13 posts and counting in this thread.

We know you tow and know what you are doing.

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Originally posted by a1abdj:

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Your truck is too small.

What size truck does he need? A 450 or 550? Because his 2500 is the same size as a 3500. Going to a dually 3500 gives you 2 extra wheels on a truck that's the same size.

Is this what he needs?

No. That is what I want. I’m a closet truck driver at heart. Gotta than Smokey and the Bandit for that . Momma doesn’t share the same love of Class 8’s as I have though.

A new truck isn’t in the cards right now and for right now unless our fortunes make a dramatic change.

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

f they're running tandem axle OTR trucks with single tires instead of dual and 53' trailer. It's because they are carrying a much lighter load. Styrofoam and things like that, that take up an entire semi trailer but aren't heavy and dense such as wheat. The single tire tandem axle, severly effects a tractor trailers overall load carrying capacity/rating.

Nope. Same weight as the dual trucks carry. 80,000 pounds.

I do not know the answer to that. I am not a tractor trailer driver (CDL A). My uncle is and I could ask him.

Most tractor trailer weight carrying ratings are so that they don't damage the roads and bridges too much. The more tires on the ground, the more the weight is distributed on the road causing less rutting to the roads etc. Just like a semi rated to carry 80,000lbs can carry 130,000lbs with tandem trailers, more axles carrying the weight or the weight is spread out over a larger area on the road.

Anyways, it isn't pertinent to this thread.

Obviously your opinion differs on towing based upon your experiences or risk factor, as does mine. Everyone is different. Both opinions add to the conversation and the OP can make his own decision.

Tow vehicle needs vary greatly depending on the geographical region the person will be towing in and the person has to factor that in.

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A new truck isn’t in the cards right now

Although I have newer trucks, I'm probably going to keep my GMC until it is no longer serviceable. That 8.1/Allison has been pretty trouble free for 250,000 miles, and that truck always has a trailer behind it. Since I can no longer get a big block in a one ton truck, I'm going to hold on to the one I have for as long as possible.

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I do not know the answer to that. I am not a tractor trailer driver (CDL A). My uncle is and I could ask him.

Most tractor trailer weight carrying ratings are so that they don't damage the roads and bridges too much. The more tires on the ground, the more the weight is distributed on the road causing less rutting to the roads etc.

I've told you the answer. You don't need to call somebody with a CDL.

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Anyways, it isn't pertinent to this thread.

It absolutely is. Several of you have stated that single tires are a safety hazard when it comes to towing. I have now pointed out that there are plenty of full size, full weight rigs running single tires. It's clearly not the issue that some of you believe it to be.

So long as the rating of the tires is enough to support the load, it is safe.

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

A new truck isn’t in the cards right now

Although I have newer trucks, I'm probably going to keep my GMC until it is no longer serviceable. That 8.1/Allison has been pretty trouble free for 250,000 miles, and that truck always has a trailer behind it. Since I can no longer get a big block in a one ton truck, I'm going to hold on to the one I have for as long as possible.

quote:

I do not know the answer to that. I am not a tractor trailer driver (CDL A). My uncle is and I could ask him.

Most tractor trailer weight carrying ratings are so that they don't damage the roads and bridges too much. The more tires on the ground, the more the weight is distributed on the road causing less rutting to the roads etc.

I've told you the answer. You don't need to call somebody with a CDL.

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Anyways, it isn't pertinent to this thread.

It absolutely is. Several of you have stated that single tires are a safety hazard when it comes to towing. I have now pointed out that there are plenty of full size, full weight rigs running single tires. It's clearly not the issue that some of you believe it to be.

So long as the rating of the tires is enough to support the load, it is safe.

It is irrelevant. A tractor trailer running multiple axles with single tires (2 rear axles, 2 tires per axle), or a single axle with multiple tires (4 per axle). Is totally irrelevant to a pickup truck with a single axle and single tires that's towing something that's right near or over it's limits.

I recommended a dually for several reasons. Wider rear track with 4 tires to give more control over the tow, much better safety margin in towing capacity, much better braking, and much better traction on the drive wheels and dynamic stability if you have a blow out on the drive axle.

For all due respect. I could tow this 40' travel trailer across town with an F 150 on a rural road that's relatively straight and flat with no traffic and emergency stops. The truck would do it, grudgingly it would get it moving and stopped. But it surely wouldn't like it, and it surely wouldn't be safe. But towing with the same situation on a busy interstate would be a death wish.

Here's what I've found online for the single tire (but tandem drive rear axle tractor trailer) keep in mind they still have 2 axles in the back, but this still re-inforces what I've been saying about the OP should have a dually In my opinion. I'm guessing the single tires have a higher weight rating for the tire:

Although dual wheels are the most common, use of two single, wider tires, known as super singles, on each axle is becoming popular among bulk cargo carriers and other weight-sensitive operators. With increased efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the use of the super-single tire is gaining popularity. There are several advantages to this configuration. The first of these is that super singles reduce fuel consumption. In 1999, tests on an oval track showed a 10% fuel savings when super singles were used. These savings are realized because less energy is wasted flexing fewer tire sidewalls. Second, the lighter overall tire weight allows a truck to be loaded with more freight. The third advantage is that the single wheel encloses less of the brake unit, which allows faster cooling and reduces brake fade.
One of the major disadvantages of the super singles is that they are currently not as widely available as a standard tire. In addition, if a tire should become deflated or be destroyed, there is not another tire attached to the same hub to maintain the dynamic stability of the vehicle, as would be the case with dual wheels. With dual wheels, the remaining tire may be overloaded, but it will typically allow the vehicle to be safely stopped or driven to a repair facility.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer_truck

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

f they're running tandem axle OTR trucks with single tires instead of dual and 53' trailer. It's because they are carrying a much lighter load. Styrofoam and things like that, that take up an entire semi trailer but aren't heavy and dense such as wheat. The single tire tandem axle, severly effects a tractor trailers overall load carrying capacity/rating.

Nope. Same weight as the dual trucks carry. 80,000 pounds.

Semi trucks with a single axel, can carry an axel weight of 20,000 pounds.
Semi trucks with a dual axel can have an axel weight of 34,000 pounds.
Registration, tolls, cost more With a dual axel configuration.
Not all big rigs are registered for 80,000 pounds. It depends on what they haul.

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It is irrelevant. A tractor trailer running multiple axles with single tires (2 rear axles, 2 tires per axle), or a single axle with multiple tires (4 per axle). Is totally irrelevant to a pickup truck with a single axle and single tires that's towing something that's right near or over it's limits.

The only thing that matters is ratings. Axle ratings. Tire ratings. A tractor trailer runs two axles to handle the extra load. Each axle still runs within it's rating.

Just like in the OP's situation. His axle and tires have a rating, and his load is within that rating.

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much better safety margin in towing capacity, much better braking,

I hate to keep bringing facts in to interfere with everyone's opinions, but the towing and braking capacity is practically the same between the 3/4 ton HD (pay attention to those two letters) and the 1 ton version of that same truck.

I have already explained that the only difference between his truck and a one ton is the rear springs. In a dually, one more set of tires. Period. His ability to pull and his ability to stop is the same in both the 3/4 ton HD and 1 ton.

And I'm glad you found Google and are now educated on single tires on trucks. Yes, the tire ratings are suited for the weight the truck is hauling. See where I'm going again? The tires on the OP's truck are also rated for what he wants to haul. Dual wheels, single wheels, or quadruple wheels. The only thing that matters is what they are designed to handle.

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hate to keep bringing facts in to interfere with everyone's opinions, but the towing and braking capacity is practically the same between the 3/4 ton HD (pay attention to those two letters) and the 1 ton version of that same truck.

I am not talking about spec's when I recommended a dually for this task. Right, I don't care about the printed facts. Nor do I care about the discussion on big rigs.

The practical matter is a dually is going to be a way better tow vehicle for a bunch of the reasons already mentioned through out this thread. I understand Ali that you think there is no need for a different truck than what the op has. But that does not mean a one ton dually will do the task better and with a higher degree of safety than his truck. I am not saying his couldn't do it. And do it safely. Just not as good or safe with a higher margin for driver error (his or another vehicle on the road) or an equipment failure. Whether it is needed is a matter of personal preference.

Btw, in my mind and I did not mention it. When I say a one ton dually I am thinking diesel. But that is a different topic as my thoughts have been about the platform, not the power plant as it pertains to the op

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But that does not mean a one ton dually will do the task better and with a higher degree of safety than his truck. I am not saying his couldn't do it. And do it safely. Just not as good or safe with a higher margin for driver error (his or another vehicle on the road) or an equipment failure. Whether it is needed is a matter of personal preference.

So you are reading what I'm saying! Because I already said that several pages back.

I'm not arguing that there aren't better options. I'm arguing against those who say it is unsafe, or not capable.

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When I say a one ton dually I am thinking diesel. But that is a different topic as my thoughts have been about the platform, not the power plant as it pertains to the op

That 8.1 liter is a 496 cubic inch engine. 340 horsepower with 455 ft lbs of torque. It's a gas hog for sure, but is plenty capable for towing. GM used these same engines in their medium duty lines.

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

But that does not mean a one ton dually will do the task better and with a higher degree of safety than his truck. I am not saying his couldn't do it. And do it safely. Just not as good or safe with a higher margin for driver error (his or another vehicle on the road) or an equipment failure. Whether it is needed is a matter of personal preference.

So you are reading what I'm saying! Because I already said that several pages back.

I'm not arguing that there aren't better options. I'm arguing against those who say it is unsafe, or not capable.

quote:

When I say a one ton dually I am thinking diesel. But that is a different topic as my thoughts have been about the platform, not the power plant as it pertains to the op

That 8.1 liter is a 496 cubic inch engine. 340 horsepower with 455 ft lbs of torque. It's a gas hog for sure, but is plenty capable for towing. GM used these same engines in their medium duty lines.

Compared to the duramax that has 445HP and 910 ft lbs of torque (double the foot pounds of torque of the 8.1, which is what you need when pulling something big and heavy). The dually will add a lot of traction (and stopping power) and much more stability.

I never said his current tow vehicle is unsafe (weight wise) or not capable (ratings). BUT it is marginal, to tow that big of a rig with it.

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Compared to the duramax that has 445HP and 910 ft lbs of torque (double the foot pounds of torque of the 8.1, which is what you need when pulling something big and heavy).

And is rated to tow what....Over 20,000 pounds? Why would he need that when what he has is properly rated for what he wants to tow?

If he was towing 20,000 pounds I would agree with you 100%. But he's not. He's towing 13,500 pounds.

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The dually will add a lot of traction (and stopping power) and much more stability.

Stability will depend on the tire sidewall. But how does that traction work? Isn't traction pretty much a result of weight and surface area? So two times the surface area with half the weight equals more traction?

What about in snow or mud. How do duallies do compared to single tires?

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I never said his current tow vehicle is unsafe (weight wise) or not capable (ratings)

Sure sounds like it. The OP asked if his vehicle was capable, and you've spent all of your time trying to convince all of us that it's not. Not enough brakes. Not enough power. Not enough tires.........

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

Compared to the duramax that has 445HP and 910 ft lbs of torque (double the foot pounds of torque of the 8.1, which is what you need when pulling something big and heavy).

And is rated to tow what....Over 20,000 pounds? Why would he need that when what he has is properly rated for what he wants to tow?

If he was towing 20,000 pounds I would agree with you 100%. But he's not. He's towing 13,500 pounds.

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The dually will add a lot of traction (and stopping power) and much more stability.

Stability will depend on the tire sidewall. But how does that traction work? Isn't traction pretty much a result of weight and surface area? So two times the surface area with half the weight equals more traction?

What about in snow or mud. How do duallies do compared to single tires?

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I never said his current tow vehicle is unsafe (weight wise) or not capable (ratings)

Sure sounds like it. The OP asked if his vehicle was capable, and you've spent all of your time trying to convince all of us that it's not. Not enough brakes. Not enough power. Not enough tires.........

The OP stated himself that his vehicle is not legally safe by law to tow this load.
GVW Truck: 9,766lbs - 576lbs over the G vehicle weight rating

You need as much torque as you can get, the OP would be trying to get 20,000 pounds moving (when including the truck and gear), a duramax would laugh at it, the 8.1 will be laboring. Especially going up hills. Can it do it, yes but not ideal.

Twice the surface area in tires with half the weight would result in more traction. Twice the surface area with the same weight results in a lot more traction. I can tell you this much, with a 2wd standard truck, I don't care if it's a HD 3500, and single tires you are not getting a 10,000 lb boat up a boat ramp here...the tires will just spin and spin......no way, no way.....a 2wd dually will pull it up with ease and not even break the tires loose.

Like I said a million times. The truck is almost at, or at (in one measurement) the maximum weight it can tow. I wouldn't do it. Would the truck do it, yeah. Is it going to labor a bit going up hills or stopping, absolutely.
Capable- Barely
Recommended- Not in my opinion

This conversation is pointless for me to keep responding to, as you are consistently just going around in circles and circles and I'm far from Insane.

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So you are reading what I'm saying! Because I already said that several pages back.

I am not seeing people say it is not capable or is unsafe with the op's truck persae. You are trying to make that assertion by in large. People are saying it is not "as" safe or "as" capable.

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People are saying it is not "as" safe or "as" capable.

Why are those people doing that? The OP clearly asked "Yes or NO". Would his truck handle the new camper. He didn't ask if there were better options. In fact, he stated that he wasn't able to obtain a better option at the moment.

quote:

Originally posted by a1abdj:

quote:

People are saying it is not "as" safe or "as" capable.

Why are those people doing that? The OP clearly asked "Yes or NO". Would his truck handle the new camper. He didn't ask if there were better options. In fact, he stated that he wasn't able to obtain a better option at the moment.

The fact that the OP himself already tows a 31' travel trailer with that truck. And, is asking other people's advice about towing a 40', pretty much says that the OP himself is questioning it's safety or capability.

Just because a bungee jumping apparatus is rated to hold a 300 lb person. If I weighed 298 lbs I'd be thinking awefully hard how much I valued my life, before I jumped off of a cliff with it.

Because if you read his op he does not ask what you say he asked.

These threads always take on a life of their own and opinions and experiences are what come of them.

The problem arise when some members think they only they have all the right info and views.

I am thinking the op appreciates all the different experienced and informed and thoughtful input.

quote:

Originally posted by old rugged cross:
Because if you read his op he does not ask what you say he asked.

These threads always take on a life of their own and opinions and experiences are what come of them.

The problem arise when some members think they only they have all the right info and views.

I am thinking the op appreciates all the different experienced and informed and thoughtful input.

The OP's questions are a bit subjective IMO

"The current trailer is feeling a bit cramped; maybe cause we are getting older and fatter. The bedroom ceiling is low and so this new trailer had a lot of positives and at a reasonable price.

My concern is I don't want to buy a new truck to pull this thing. The combined weight is below the trucks capacity and the rear axle rating is below it's capacity but the gross vehicle weight is over by about 700 lbs (estimated) 9,900lbs vs. 9,200 lbs.

If we get this trailer, I would likely have to upgrade the front brakes of the truck to a 4 piston brake. Maybe even add air bags to the rear axle to reduce squat. Just would hate to find out I need a new truck after getting the new trailer.

What to do...... Stay away because it's too much trailer or say *uck it, you ain't getting any younger and enjoy it."

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The problem arise when some members think they only they have all the right info and views.

Perhaps the problem arises when members who don't know what they're talking about pass off fiction for fact. Then others, who may not know better, take that fiction into account.

I've counted 3 of us in this thread that say his truck is OK. All 3 of us own similar trucks and tow similar loads. At least two of us have posted the numbers and the math.

Then there are others who say it's not good enough for whatever reason. Yet they don't seem to own similar trucks or tow similar loads. When their fiction is pointed out, they then get bent out of shape, keep moving goalposts, and otherwise get in a "tizy".

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Just because a bungee jumping apparatus is rated to hold a 300 lb person. If I weighed 298 lbs I'd be thinking awefully hard how much I valued my life, before I jumped off of a cliff with it.

Perhaps you would feel more at ease if you were aware of how these things were rated. Typically multiples of the rating. Some seem to act as if this apparatus will break once 301 pounds is placed upon it. That's simply not the case.

Ratings exist for a reason. 1% or 100% of rating = safe to use.

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Just because a bungee jumping apparatus is rated to hold a 300 lb person. If I weighed 298 lbs I'd be thinking awefully hard how much I valued my life, before I jumped off of a cliff with it

This is the best quote of this long thread...

Some people on this thread have opinions that if God himself told them they were wrong would continue to argue about it.
Have a nice day!