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CVO Technical => Trailers / toyhaulers => Topic started by: LETS_ROLL on May 15, 2018, 04:59:08 PM

Title: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: LETS_ROLL on May 15, 2018, 04:59:08 PM
I know RGlideKid posted a "whatcha Tow", let's make this the Toy Hauler version😜😜.

    I'm starting to plan for retirement and curious of what members of the forum have.  What's your set up?
Motorhome w/ built in garage, motorhome or truck w/ 5th wheel or bumper pull toy hauler. We are planning on a truck with 5th wheel.

    We have the truck, F-350 power stroke ( not dually), so it will pull, just not a super heavy TH.  My wife just retired, so we're a couple of steps short.  Missing a TH and me retiring😂😂. 
I know a few things we would need like,
a garage big enough for 2 baggers,
King size bed😜,
Nice size bathroom (2 would be nice),
Big fridge...
We're not planning on full timing but, plan on being away from home for a while.  Our family is spread all across the states.


   So, post a couple of pics of your setups. Write a couple of things you really like about it (can't do without) and maybe some things you wish you had or will be sure to get/have on the next one when or if you upgrade.            Ride safe, Let's Roll

Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 15, 2018, 07:33:17 PM
Interesting topic Gabe.

You know what I have, you've been in it......    https://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=111630.0

But just a couple of comments.  What make, model and year is your truck?  That will determine a lot as the late model trucks have higher towing capacity.  Dodge and Ford both have a higher tow rating than the GM products in the 1 ton class.

There's a lot to consider (especially with a SRW) when it comes to toyhaulers, besides floor plan.  ie.  loaded tongue weight, double axle or triple axle, a "true" all seasons vs one that claims "arctic pkg." of some other mumble jumbo (is the underside completely enclosed and heated by the furnace to keep your plumbing from freezing should it drop below freezing, etc.  You'll use it more months out of the year if you're comfortably warm in it vs. those model of toyhaulers that feel like a meat locker).   An on board (built in) gas generator means you'll have a gas station on board, also.  A portable generator you always have to move it, think about security when you're away from your rig, etc.

These are a few things that come to mind right away.  If I think of more things that should be considered, I'll post up.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: LETS_ROLL on May 15, 2018, 08:18:57 PM
JC, figured you'd be in here soon enough.  When we met in FL I picked your brain a bit and yes these are all good topics and you did mention them.  We still have a while till we're ready to buy but I figured start getting some info.  Thanks again.

We have a 2016 F-350 (srw) diesel power stroke.

Let's Roll
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 15, 2018, 08:52:58 PM
Here's a link to the Momentum floor plans (all Momentums are toy haulers).  The lightest UVW looks to be the 328M.  All Momentums come with everything I mentioned above.

If you click on each floor plan then on Specs, you can see what the tongue weight is.  Keep in mind that when weights are posted, that's RVs that are weighed at the factory, so no batteries, no water (8.34 lbs. per gallon adds up real fast) in the holding tank, no gas in the on board gas station, empty holding tanks, etc.  So when it's set up to actually use you add all that weight plus food, dishes, clothes, tools, etc. and it adds up real quick.  My 5th wheel weighs 21,020 lbs. loaded with my bike, but mine is six feet longer than the 328M.

https://www.granddesignrv.com/showroom/2019/toy-hauler/momentum/floorplans


There are others on this forum that have some nice toyhaulers, lookin forward to seeing what they got.  :2vrolijk_21:

Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Joel on May 15, 2018, 09:29:43 PM
Are you doing new or used. I ask because many places won't allow motor homes or trailers on their site if they're 10 years old or older so keep that in mind.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: LETS_ROLL on May 16, 2018, 11:17:14 AM
I've looked at the momentum one they are to if the line very nice and yes the weight probably an issue. They are well built with all the goodies so on the heavier side of the scale.  Might end up with a different one, but definitely will look at them first. Thinking in buying a used one. There's lots of mark up on those things.  Let's Roll
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 16, 2018, 02:52:33 PM
There are people on the forum and on the fb page that are pulling that 328M with a SRW and hauling two Harleys......just an FYI.

Also, I would suggest buying used also, let somebody else take the hit.  I bought mine from private party when it was six months old....still had factory warranty and 7 year extended warranty.   :2vrolijk_21:   Of course the factory warranty has expired now.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on May 17, 2018, 12:50:39 PM
So what's up with the 10 year old limitation at parks etc?

I'm going to be retiring in approximately 596 days, 5 hours and on the fly around 11 minutes.  And I will be looking for a used setup to haul around.  I've found a few that are in the '06 to '08 vintage that have less than 20k miles on them and they are in great shape.

So if the 10 year limit is enforced, how do you check if you just see a park late in the day and decide to stop by?

I know they don't want any rif-raf in their parks, but I've never heard of a year age limit.  Although to be fair, I've not done this kind of thing since around '78 thru '80.

Thanks.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 17, 2018, 03:58:26 PM
Dan that's private owned RV parks, not national parks or state campgrounds, Army Corps of Engineer Parks, or BLM areas.  Almost all modern RV parks have that rule however, my observation is that it's rarely enforced if the RV has been well maintained.  I think it's a policy to keep out low lifes and homeless types, etc.

I've saw some very nice RVs that are 15-20 yrs. old even a few restored classics from the 60s that are in better shape (appearance wise) than some RVs that we've saw that are only 5-8 yrs. old.  When we were at International RV Park in Daytona Beach a couple of months ago, there was a Momentum like ours (2016 was the first year of our model) that looked like it was already 10 yrs. old and had never been washed or waxed in that ten years.  I can only imagine the deferred maintenance on that unit.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 17, 2018, 04:02:28 PM
I'm going to be retiring in approximately 596 days, 5 hours and on the fly around 11 minutes. 

Thanks.


 :huepfenlol2: :nervous: :P :huepfenlol2:    I  Just re-read this.  It seems like it was forever ago but really wasn't that long ago that I kept that kind of countdown.  Thought I was the only one.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Designflaw on May 17, 2018, 04:43:13 PM
Interesting topic. My wife is against a trailer or 5th wheel.  With that much house behind you she wants to be able to use it while moving. Also done a little bit of the math and to get a decent 5th wheel and a decent truck you can have a pretty nice driver.

So.....

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 17, 2018, 06:00:30 PM
Interesting topic. My wife is against a trailer or 5th wheel.  With that much house behind you she wants to be able to use it while moving. Also done a little bit of the math and to get a decent 5th wheel and a decent truck you can have a pretty nice driver.

So.....

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

We were originally looking at class A diesel pushers and we spent a couple of years shopping.  The more we looked, the more we learned.  So I'll just share some things that we learned along the way.  Are you going to spend more time going down the road or more time set up and enjoying it?  Are you more concerned with other's comfort (assuming you're in the driver's seat), going down the road or everybody's comfort once you're set up? 

Those questions aside....a 5th wheel has more storage than other RVs....especially if it's a toyhauler.  You have taller ceilings in a 5th wheel than you do in any motorized RV (class A, B or C).  In several models of 5th wheels you have three separate living areas (living room, kitchen/dining and bedroom) in motorized RVs you only have two (the living room, kitchen and dining area are all together).  Some makes/models of toyhaulers the garage area has both A/C with heatpump as well as furnace (propane) heat and in some cases they're not even being used as a toyhauler but as a second bedroom, office or kids playroom.  And the ramp door then becomes a patio deck that's enclosed by a fence all the way around it (no motorized RV has that option).  Also, with a motorized unit, when you have mechanical problems you've lost your transportation and your home.  With a TT (travel trailer) or 5th wheel, if your truck is in the shop you still have your RV to stay in.  Not many things to go wrong with a TT or 5th wheel that it needs to stay in a shop if you're on the road.

Look at the Grand Design Momentum line.....they are all true all seasons RV (many mfg. claim to be or use terminology that would make you think they are, such as "arctic package" but their plumbing is not in enclosed heated space, for instance). 

In the second post above I provided a link to pics of my Momentum.....have your wife take a look at them.  Find a dealership close to you that sales Grand Design and go look at their Momentum and Solitude lines.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Para Bellum on May 18, 2018, 03:16:06 AM
Interesting topic. My wife is against a trailer or 5th wheel.  With that much house behind you she wants to be able to use it while moving. Also done a little bit of the math and to get a decent 5th wheel and a decent truck you can have a pretty nice driver.
Some states allow passengers to be in the "5er" while moving.  From [urlhttp://traveltips.usatoday.com/rv-5th-wheel-laws-111797.html][/url]:
Passenger Restrictions
As a general rule, passengers are not allowed to travel in a fifth-wheel trailer while it is being towed, but 21 states do allow it, including California, New York and Pennsylvania. Restrictions apply, however, usually stipulating that there must be one unlocked exit that can be opened from inside or outside, or that passengers must be over 14 years old. Some states require that safety glass be fitted in windows of trailers carrying passengers, and that all passengers wear seat belts.

I had a 34 foot Class A motor home.  Anytime the coach (living area) or the motor/chassis had to be worked on, we were without both our home and our transportation (unless we were towing a vehicle, which we often did).  With a 5er, you still have one or the other available, and when you reach your destination, you can unhitch the truck and use it for local travel.

The 5ers also give more living space than an equivalent sized motorized unit.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Indenial on May 21, 2018, 04:19:37 PM
Good info for us "dreamers".  Tell us more about the tow vehicle. Sounds like you need a 1-ton at minimum.  What about single vs dually?  And what are the 450's 550's I see on the road?
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on May 21, 2018, 06:40:48 PM
Even if you have a lighter toyhauler, a dually handles better in bad weather (wind, rain) as well as in curves, the mountains, etc. 

The weights of an RV are the weights as they leave the factory so you add batteries, water, gas (in the on board gas station), clothes, food, dishes, motorcycle(s), tools, equipment and supplies, etc. bumps your weight up way more than most people might think.  I have a 2014 F-350 dually, FX-4, Longbed, Lariet, crewcab and I was still over weight by 1,020 lbs.

The F-450 is the same motor, tranny, rear end but has a bit wider stance, beefed up suspension and surprisingly, has a tighter turning radius than the F-350.  That can come in real handy in some of the state and national parks or older RV parks where things are a little tighter.

All three brands.....the later model trucks have a heavier weight and tow capacity than they did 8-10 yrs. ago.  The pickup boxes are generally a little bigger, also.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: mr_magoo on May 23, 2018, 09:14:29 AM
Gabe Look hard at the weights you will be towing, I HAD a 2014 F350 SRW and we bought a Solitude 310 (not a toy hauler)35' residential RV and not fully loaded we where at 7340 for a GAWR on the rear axle which put us over by #340 (door sticker is 7000), so we made the decision to upgrade to a 2018 F350 DRW which now gives us a GAWR of #9900.  Like JCZ says the thing we put in to the trailer add up fast, you will offset some of the pin weight by carrying 2 Bagger in the back of the trailer but that's just another #2,000.  We've only been out on 1 trip since we got the new truck but the DRW make a huge difference in how the truck feels towing.  Check out some of the RV forums there is a lot of talk on Tow vehicle, I like Grand Design Forum, seems like nice folks with lots on insight.   
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: LETS_ROLL on June 02, 2018, 01:45:40 PM
Gabe Look hard at the weights you will be towing, I HAD a 2014 F350 SRW and we bought a Solitude 310 (not a toy hauler)35' residential RV and not fully loaded we where at 7340 for a GAWR on the rear axle which put us over by #340 (door sticker is 7000), so we made the decision to upgrade to a 2018 F350 DRW which now gives us a GAWR of #9900.  Like JCZ says the thing we put in to the trailer add up fast, you will offset some of the pin weight by carrying 2 Bagger in the back of the trailer but that's just another #2,000.  We've only been out on 1 trip since we got the new truck but the DRW make a huge difference in how the truck feels towing.  Check out some of the RV forums there is a lot of talk on Tow vehicle, I like Grand Design Forum, seems like nice folks with lots on insight.
Thanks for the feedback Dave, hope all is well.  Its early for us to  but now, but we'll start looking.  Cause maybe when we're ready to buy (most likely used) we'll buy something that's new right now 😊.  Let's  Roll
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: acevtwin on December 18, 2018, 09:02:49 AM
I have a 2015 F250, Gas motor. The Toyhauler is an AMPED by Evergreen. Pulls great. Fits 2 baggers or a golf cart and a bagger.
When the toys are out I have the best seating of any other bumper pull Ive seen. a Booth type area in the back, a full couch and 2 chairs. Separate step up bedroom (like a fifth wheel) allowing more storage underneath.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Puzzled on December 18, 2018, 10:10:18 AM
Our current toy hauler. Heartland Road Warrior 427.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Sklywag on December 27, 2018, 06:26:50 PM
I thought for a minute there were not going to be any pictures.  We have been living in ours for a year and a half now.  All I can say is I wish we had bought one more like what JC has.  Our's works well but hindsight says it was a mistake for a live-in.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: acevtwin on December 28, 2018, 09:52:36 AM
I thought for a minute there were not going to be any pictures.  We have been living in ours for a year and a half now.  All I can say is I wish we had bought one more like what JC has.  Our's works well but hindsight says it was a mistake for a live-in.
Why was it a Mistake? Size? Layout?
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on December 28, 2018, 11:27:43 AM
It's getting ready to rain....
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on December 28, 2018, 11:28:42 AM
It's raining.....
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on December 28, 2018, 11:34:16 AM
Headed to Quartzsite, Az. where it's dryer and warmer....
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: CJ CYCLE on December 29, 2018, 06:23:05 PM
Headed to Quartzsite, Az. where it's dryer and warmer....

Are all those RV's in the foreground dry camping?
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: porthole on December 30, 2018, 11:12:12 AM
Headed to Quartzsite, Az. where it's dryer and warmer....

Staying for the winter?

We are going to try Gulf Shores Alabama for a couple of months - no snow  :orange:
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on December 30, 2018, 12:32:23 PM
Are all those RV's in the foreground dry camping?

Yep, snowbirders from Canada and the northern US....commonly referred to as boondocking.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Wrongway on December 31, 2018, 12:47:11 PM
Are all those RV's in the foreground dry camping?

Can't believe they call that CAMPING.  :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: dayne66 on December 31, 2018, 01:24:59 PM
Can't believe they call that CAMPING.  :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:

It's called "glamping".
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: CJ CYCLE on January 01, 2019, 01:28:25 AM
Yep, snowbirders from Canada and the northern US....commonly referred to as boondocking.

Looks like what I need to do right now! 
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: dayne66 on August 03, 2019, 11:37:53 AM
(https://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/0c5d4d3d6850cc4b55f089b7f0b4e43b.jpg?quality=85&strip=info&w=600)
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on August 03, 2019, 04:48:34 PM
Thanks for the feedback Dave, hope all is well.  Its early for us to  but now, but we'll start looking.  Cause maybe when we're ready to buy (most likely used) we'll buy something that's new right now 😊.  Let's  Roll

Did you pull the trigger on anything Gabe?
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on August 03, 2019, 04:49:41 PM
(https://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/0c5d4d3d6850cc4b55f089b7f0b4e43b.jpg?quality=85&strip=info&w=600)

Is that yours or just something you saw on the road?  I don't see a CVO strapped up there.  :P
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: dayne66 on August 04, 2019, 10:14:13 AM
If it were mine it would probably have a CVO......or maybe an Indian along with the chopper
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Para Bellum on August 05, 2019, 01:45:40 AM
(https://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/0c5d4d3d6850cc4b55f089b7f0b4e43b.jpg?quality=85&strip=info&w=600)
That's a nice setup; don't have to R & R the rotors every time you use it.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Indenial on August 11, 2019, 08:59:36 PM
So, does he have to land it on the trailer?   
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on August 14, 2019, 10:35:10 PM
Well, Linda and I did it last Saturday.  It's still in Ankeney IA until I get a hitch in my RAM.

Forgot to add that we bought a '12 RAM 3500 DRW 6.7L diesel.  It's got some miles on it, but being a Laramie it has the nice things, heated and cooled seats.  The cooled seats are working out great for us.  I probably doesn't get the mpg's that a newer one might, but empty we did get 18.2 mpg on our trip to Clare MI last weekend from Des Moines IA.  It's the last year for NON-DEF.  In '13 RAM went to DEF.  It's still stock without delete or turner.  It runs really well and does seem to chit and get quite nicely.  8' box, not the Megacab and short box.

It's titled '13 and a late '12 floorplan.  42.5'.  Very well maintained and looks great inside.  All decals are good on outside.  Everything works, so that's half the battle.

I'm sure that I will have some small items to tweak, but overall we're looking forward to toy hauler ownership.

It has the party deck factory option, washer dryer combo unit, 1.5 batch, central vacuum, gas station, auto hydraulic one button leveling, outside shower, three awning - two power side and one manual over the party deck, solid wood cabinets throughout and more I'm sure.

So next comes the hitch.  It's gross is listed at 18k and I'm going to put in a 20k hitch.  Still not sure if I'm going to do a gooseneck reversible ball and then a companion type hitch, or just go for the topside rails and live with them in my box.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414276626.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414276625.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414276624.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414276623.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414276622.jpg)

I've got tons to learn now... :)
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: MIKEYTEE on August 15, 2019, 12:22:48 PM
Very nice Dan! You and Linda should really enjoy your adventures.

Mike

 :drink:
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on August 15, 2019, 08:43:54 PM
Mike, yes we hope to very much.

My last work day is going to be December 20th.  I'll technically be on vacation for the remainder of the year until January 2nd and then I just don't go back to work... :)

We're looking at possibly spending a few months in MI in the summer and then south in the winter.  Linda has 10 states she needs to click off her bucket list and we plan on doing that in the rig.

The Raptor will need just a little TLC, but it's in good shape other than a very good cleaning needed.

I'll post inside pics after I get it back home.

I just ordered a B&W gooseneck under bed install kit and then the B&W companion 5th wheel hitch.  I'll have fun installing them both alone... :(
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Twolanerider on August 16, 2019, 12:31:50 AM
That's sweet Dan.  Congrats on finding something that it sounds like you're pleased with.  Will really look forward to road stories once you and Linda are highway living. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: FLSTFI Dave on August 16, 2019, 08:38:04 PM
Congratulations Dan.  Looks real nice.  I'm sure you will really enjoy it.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on August 23, 2019, 02:44:16 PM
Thanks all, I think we will enjoy it.  I know I won't have any issues with the life style, but not too sure yet about Linda... :)

This weekend I'm installing my new B&W below bed goose neck 30k flip over ball hitch.  With that I purchased the B&W Companion hitch rated at 20k.  Man, this think is going to be very heavy.  I have the companion base in a box now and I bet it weight well over 100#.  Although it does have the removable top pivot hitch plate, that should help reduce some of the weight.

I went with the under bed flip over ball hitch so I didn't have any cross rails in the bed, just smooth for lumber etc.

Pictures after the weekend I hope.

Have a great weekend guys!
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on August 23, 2019, 02:53:19 PM
Nice, I like the two bathroom model.

I've been in the heart of RV country, Elkhart, Indiana for a couple of weeks.  Done a couple of factory tours, the Amish community tour, etc.  Here for the Grand Design National Rally.
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: T-Roy on August 24, 2019, 11:12:39 AM
I am a little less than 3 years from retirement. I am considering a Jayco Pinnacle with a Freedom Hauler behind it. One drawback is that even though Freedom Hauler advertises it as an extension of the fifth wheel some of the states that don't allow tandem towing recognize it as a trailer.....Imagine that. I figure I can get in a campground on the borders of those states and take motorcycle excursions into them. If I go this route I will put 2 motorcycle loaders on the freedom hauler to load and unload the bikes. Here is a link to freedom hauler so you can see what I am talking about.
https://freedomhauler.com/
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: kevin_n on August 24, 2019, 06:00:10 PM
Congrats Dan, looks like things fell into your lap. Hope you guys enjoy and I think Linda will come around.  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: JCZ on August 24, 2019, 08:46:54 PM
I am a little less than 3 years from retirement. I am considering a Jayco Pinnacle with a Freedom Hauler behind it. One drawback is that even though Freedom Hauler advertises it as an extension of the fifth wheel some of the states that don't allow tandem towing recognize it as a trailer.....Imagine that. I figure I can get in a campground on the borders of those states and take motorcycle excursions into them. If I go this route I will put 2 motorcycle loaders on the freedom hauler to load and unload the bikes. Here is a link to freedom hauler so you can see what I am talking about.
https://freedomhauler.com/

Just a suggestion.....might want to check the recalls on Jayco products before you pull the trigger.  Jayco is on that list often every week when it comes out.  Jayco and Forest River are on that recall more regularly, by far, than other mfgs.
Title: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: 444turbodiesel on August 25, 2019, 08:18:45 PM
Hello from Indiana!
Here’s my 2008 Escalade, 2010 FatBoy Lo and 2019 CVO Street Glide in the garage! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190826/b5b69647859b94fae6547dbe1e7479a0.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190826/9ebee6c79cf953eae09ec8fae47befb8.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190826/c5c6aa7fe2b12d79ff91ec33ca91da2f.jpg)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on August 27, 2019, 04:27:56 PM
Well I spent last weekend doing my new hitch.

Saturday I spent about half the day crawling under the truck, then up top, then back under, you get the idea.  Doing this alone was a chore.  The gooseneck under bed center section weighed about 80# and man handling it up over the axle was chore.  I had a chain through the ball hole and my engine cherry picker over the bed rail.  I would pull up the slack on the chain and hook it off on the picker and then crawl back under and move it a bit and then up top to take up the slack again.  When I finally got it up to the underside of the box bed, my neighbor came over and even though he only had one usable hand, he then helped with the picker jack up/down etc.  Also getting to all the bolts with the exhaust still in place and reaching up from the creeper, was another chore altogether.  Specially trying to get the 110'/# torque on all the grade 8 bolts.

The front cross beam is 1" x 2" bar stock.  WOW that's thick and heavy.  The rear cross bar was 2" x 3/8" angle, also very heavy.  I didn't have to drill a hole other than in the bed.  Everything fit just like it should.  Measured 47.5" from the end of the box and drilled my 4" hole.  The center section of the hitch fit perfectly into the hole and all the frame side brackets bolted right up without any issues.  B&W did a great job on this hitch.  The companion hitch was also very well made and very heavy.  The top comes of with two lock pins and two trip handles.  I'm guessing around 75# for the top section.  But the lower main plate section probably goes around 125# or more.  I know that I can lift it up out of the bed and move it, but I would not want to do it everyday without an overhead lift of some sort. 

Do you guys remove your hitches when on the road camping?  I guess that would depend on if you needed your box to haul more than planks/boards, no plywood or drywall would fit with it in the bed.  Just wondering.  I've got so many questions that my mind at night just runs and I can't get to sleep.  I guess it's not all that bad of a thing to keep me awake. :)

So anyway, after a 4" hole cut in the bed floor and then four 1/2" holes for the safety chain spring loaded u-bolts, it was finally in.  Now I have a smooth box floor when the ball is flipped over or removed.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/1562785/414284738.jpg)

Next on Sunday came the 20k companion hitch.  I had to flip the post to their #2 position because I could not even get close to being in front of the pin centerline to the axle centerline.  Flipping it to #2 got me 4" forward.  Then I had to swap the upright mounts a couple times to where it is now.  The best I can measure, I'm around 2" in front of my axle centerline.  From what I've read, anywhere from 2" to 6" could be used, but closer to the 2" would be best.  That's where I think I am, hopefully.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/1562785/414284739.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/1562785/414284740.jpg)

So with the hitch out all I'll have are the two rounded tops of the u-bolts.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/1562785/414284741.jpg)

You can see from the box pictures, this truck has been USED...  A month ago Linda and I were tearing down our original cedar deck and had to get rid of all the old lumber.  We started carrying the lumber around to the truck and I told her that if this were a new truck, I would NOT throw this stuff in there, but as long as it's already dented and beat up, no problems adding a few of my own to make it mine.  It's really not bad, just dented on the wheel wheels in many places.  The outside of the truck and interior are all really good, so that's all that matters.

So for around $1500, I'm good to go now.  I'm at around 56.5" at the top of the hitch and my 5th wheel sitting fairly level in the dealer's lot has a pin box height of 53".  So figuring about a 3" drop in the rearend when loaded, I "should" be close.  I think they still have some pin box adjustments if needed at hook up.

Stay tuned for part 2
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on August 27, 2019, 04:28:31 PM
Part 2

Linda and I are going up to Ankeney IA.  That's about 15 minutes from my son's place in Runnels IA.  It's his buddy that I bought from.

I'll tell you guys this, I was NOT really looking to buy a truck just yet.  I still have 115 days, 2 hours and 51 minutes until I'm done.  At that point I will technically be on vacation through January 2nd.  After that I just won't go back to work.......... ALL DONE!  So anyway, if anyone has been looking to purchase a good used 1 ton diesel dually at a good price, they find that they are far and few between.  So when my '12 RAM came up on the radar, it was something I just had to get.  THEN we weren't looking to purchase a toy hauler until next spring, but again, all the planets aligned and we found one in our price range that checked all of our must have boxes, along with some extras for good measure.

We're going up the 6th to pick it up and bring it back home.  It "may" fit in my driveway, maybe...  I think I may stick out in the cul de sac about a foot in front, but I can live with that for a few days.  We can't have anything like a boat, trailer or RV parked more than two or three days at a time.  AND for anyone thinking about doing this and not being a full timer, keep in mind that storing the dang thing will set you back another $50 to $60 / month...  :(

I'll update everyone after we get it home and have some time to play with it.

I've got a LOT to learn on this thing.  I know I have hydraulic 1-touch 6-leg leveling, but have no idea how to use it to unhook from the hitch, remember the hitch height, or how far from level can the RV be and still get the leveling to work.  I guess blocking on a slanted driveway will be necessary so I can get the pads all about the same height when I start.

What kind of wheel chocks work the best, the injection molded plastic with the ribs or the solid rubber ones?  It's things like this that I'm going to have to get up to speed on.

Any suggestions will be graciously accepted... :)

Until then... Later dudes!
Title: Re: Show Off (us) your Toy Hauler setup
Post by: Dan_Lockwood on September 11, 2019, 09:52:52 AM
Well we finally picked up the new toy hauler, at least new to us.

They went through a 5 hour training last Friday for us and we got a LOT out of it.  My wife's brain was full in about half an hour... :)  So after that she was just along for the ride, so to speak...  :D

Here it is as we pulled into my son's barn driveway in Runnels IA, suburb of Des Moines.  It's a little deceiving, but the truck is really level and the Raptor is also very level.  We stopped at a Walmart on the way home and I parked out in east BF.  While walking back to the rig it was sitting perfectly level as a unit.  I have probably more than 8" of box rail clearance!

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293305.jpg)

Same day but before slides out and leveled up.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293304.jpg)

At home in our sub-division.  So far since Saturday afternoon, I've had no complaints about it sitting there.  We have rules that say boat trailers / campers etc can only be on our property for 2 to 3 days max.  In this case it will be until someone complains, or next Sunday whichever comes first. :)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293308.jpg)

At 43' long and leaving walking room around the rear up next to the house, I stick out just a bit into the cul de sac.  Also I cannot say enough about the Lippert Level UP system.  This is GREAT!  Even at this much of an angle, it leveled up.  I did know enough to place some wood under the front to "help" out on the legs so they would have to extend out all the way.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293307.jpg)

I think this is what people call a driveway full of STUFF!

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293306.jpg)

This is a close up of the house garage.  It shows my "other" new play toy, an '88 Cadillac Allante.  It's my ex-wife's and she gave it to me to get it out of her yard after her late husband passed away a couple months ago.  I kidded her that I wasn't sure if she was trying to get even with me for divorcing her or actually trying to be nice.  Knowing what I do NOW about Allantes, I believe that she's getting even with me.  She bought it back in '93 and since '07 its only move 110 miles.  It came with a new rag top installed and up.  The aluminum hard top that came from the factory as part of the total Allante package, has a roller cart and cover, but I felt the safest place was on the car.  Working on new water pump and all new idler pulleys along with new alternator bearings.  New belt too.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24841920/414293309.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24842395/414253514.jpg)

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24842395/414281746.jpg)

And yes, if it looks like there are LOTS of dash buttons, there are; 57 of them to be exact.

(http://pic80.picturetrail.com/VOL846/863774/24842395/414253513.jpg)

So that's the show for today.

Any questions or suggestions, please let me know.

Have a GREAT DAY!