Re: [A/S] wheelbase VS max trailer length

["vrmanac" <andy@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Patti

I have towed with several Suburbans and Tahoes in most any condition 
imaginable with and without Hensley Hitches.  Unquestionably the 
Hensley is the best decision you could make.  

Something we noticed a long time ago was that some vehicles with 
shorter wheelbases were actually more stable than others with longer 
wheelbases.  What we discovered was that there were other factors 
involved than just purely wheelbase.  

We relate the wheelbase to the rear overhang.  For example your Tahoe 
has a 47" rear overhang measureing from the axle to the ball and a 
116" wheelbase so the overhang is 40.5% of the wheelbase.  On a 
Suburban the overhang is 54" and the wheelbase is 130" so the 
overhang is 41.5% of the wheelbase.  If measure it this way they are 
almost identical. (these are with a conventional hitch and a welded 
ball mount)

If use a properly set up conventional hitch and you tow with a 
Suburban or Tahoe and everything else is equal you will find that 
they tow virtually identically.  The Tahoe will maneuver much better 
and be easier to back up, the Suburban has a larger fuel tank and 
will carry more stuff.

When towing with a Hensley I think the Tahoe has a slight advantage.  
It is easier to transfer weight to the front wheels because you don't 
have to throw it as far and the the projected pivot point of the 
Hensley actually winds up ahead of the rear axle.  

What I am trying to say is that if you like your Tahoe don't feel you 
have to get a Suburban next time.  

If you would like to improve your Tahoe the weakest link on it is the 
tires.  If you change them to 225/75R x 16"LT (light truck) Load 
Range "C" tires you will notice a considerable improvement in 
handling both with and without the Airstream.  Considering you are 
getting the Hensley though this is far from being a crittical change.

Have a great time with your Airstream.

Andy