Re: [a/s] More website pictures

[John Hilty <hilty@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dan,

Yes, it is an Explorer. I know, I know, it isn't the proper vehicle to
pull an Airstream, and I had some sway problems on my first trip. But, I
did add a Hensley hitch and all the squireliness went away. (This is not
intended to be about the hitch.)

To answer your questions about the Explorer though, it is a '96 with the
5.0 liter (302 c.i.) V8, 3.73 rear end, trailer towing package including
auxiliary tranny cooler, etc. The factory tow rating is 6,800 lb. which
happens to be exactly the GVWR of my 25' A/S (5,100 dry). It is an
automatic 4 speed including the overdrive, but I always tow without o/d
in 3rd. Solo mileage varies from 14 mpg to slightly over 20 under
optimal conditions. Average city/freeway driving yields about 16-17.
Towing the A/S averages 12 mpg, but up to 14 or down to 10 if climbing
or bucking a strong headwind. I have only had it up to about 6,000 ft.
elevation, and it has done fine there pulling 6% grade if somewhat
slower than a $35,000 F250 PSD (which I would love to have, but not pay
for). I had the vehicle before the A/S and after checking the specs
decided I could use it unless I experienced negative results. The
Hensley although an expensive solution to the sway problem, was much
less than the above mentioned F250 solution.

John H.

-- 
hilty@airstream.net
http://www.skyboom.com/johnhilty/