Re: [A/S] New to list Have Questions

["fstreeks" <fstreeks@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Chuck,
I have a '72 Tradewind 25' that has a gross weight of  5800 pounds.  I have
never weighed it empty. It is my understanding that these trailers have
gained weight over the years but I don't know when that started. I pull with
a E-150 van with a 300 cu in 6. I have not had any problems but there are
some factors that contribute to my success and some limitations to what I
can do with this set up.

If you have an automatic it should be the automatic four speed. It will tow
in OD. The automatic overdrive transmission (AOD in fordspeak) will not tow
in OD and in general is not as good a puller as the 4 speed auto. Install
the biggest transmission cooler you can.

For my axel I can choose to two different gear sets. I have a 3.05 that is
OK. If I hit the lottery in a small way I will swap for the 3.77. I am
pulling these ratios from memory and my be a little off on the numbers.

I live in the east and don't go to the hills very often, If you are a
mountainous type you may end buying a new truck. If you dream of crossing
the continental divide, forget if.

I tow at 55 on the highway, the most scientific calculation of fuel economy
I have done is this:
It is 160 miles of flat highway to the beach, without the trailer I use a
half a tank,with I use three quarters.


Good Luck

Frank Streeks