New Owner With Tow Vehicle Question

Doug · 03-08-2007, 02:52 PM

We have purchased a Sunline T-286SR and are hoping to pick it up in early April.

I am wondering what other people are using as their tow vehicle for similar length & weight Sunlines? More of a survey of what people are using... not really looking for opinions and such.

Thanks!

**PTHutch** · 03-08-2007, 03:52 PM

Hi Doug,

We have a 2005 T-280SR, which is basically the same unit as the T-286SR. In 2006 Sunline modified the Kitchen layout a little bit and changed the model number from 280 to 286.

After we bought the 280SR we upgraded our TV to a 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD with the Duamax Diesel Engine & Allison Transmission. It tows it like a dream.

Our previous tow vehicle was a Ford E-150 Conversion Van with a 5.4L Engine. That towed the 280 but it was not a happy camper, if you know what I mean.

The 280, like the 286, has a heavy tongue weight, so I wanted to make sure our TV had the GVWR and rear end to handle it. I had my TT weighted on the way home from picking it up at the Dealers and the tongue weight was 1,140 lbs. Total weight of the TT was 7,200 lbs. Haven't weighted the trailer loaded yet, but anticipating the tongue weight is over 1,200 lbs with a total TT weight of 8,000+ lbs.

Hutch

kanyonkitty · 03-09-2007, 04:29 AM

Good Morning Doug,

WELCOME to the Sunline Owners Club and congratulations on your purchase of one of the best coaches ever made.

I too will recommend at least a 3/4 ton truck, anything less will really struggle and have an early death. Gas or diesel, that is a personal choice.

Good luck with you decision.

Shoot, you won't have to wait long to use your Sunline as spring is about to spring !!!!

Kitty

donreitz · 03-09-2007, 05:45 AM

I second PTHutch's suggestion. After towing with a series of Suburbans and Tahoes we purchased a diesel last year. There is simply no comparison between the diesel and the others when it comes to towing capacity and driving ease. You pay a premium for the diesel, but (to my way of thinking anyway) the benefits outweigh the costs substantially. By the way, the 6-speed Allison transmission on the Chevy/GMC is so smart it has its own owner's manual. Take one for a test drive.

Hope this helps.
Don

rich2500 · 03-10-2007, 06:06 PM

see sig for my tow vehicle

Doug · 03-12-2007, 01:22 PM

Thanks for the info and help. It is greatly appreciated.

The maiden voyage will have to be with my 1/2 ton. I've already started to explore some other options for trips this summer.

I've invested in a good hitch (Hensley Arrow) and believe my current tow vehicle will be adequate for the maiden voyage (320 hp, 365 ft-lbs). Once loaded, the trailer will be at my 100% capacity mark. So... the advice for another tow vehicle is greatly appreciated.

kanyonkitty · 03-12-2007, 05:29 PM

Your quite welcome, Doug. Isn't it great all the information that we have to share with one another. Congrats on your Sunline purchase, HAPPY CAMPING !

irishguy101 · 03-13-2007, 08:50 PM

I have a T280 and I have a Durango with the Hemi and its set to tow 8900lbs, and I can't complain of the Job it does with no Problems and pull a Mountain 1800ft.

GWDawg1 · 03-26-2007, 08:21 PM

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