Re: [A/S] Digest Number 1506

["Helen Countryman" <helncoun@xxxxxxx>]

Trailer Weight


Response to comment
We are the new caretakers of an 85 sovereign 25.  Plate says maximun
is around 6,800 lbs, 3,800 empty.


Ours is a 1964 Overlander  -  26 feet.   Empty weight, approximately 5000
pounds.  '85 is wider than '64 (even though they are both called 8' wide)
and '85 is taller, and has a heavier frame.  The way I see size numbers used
at different times, they are nominally the same length.  I suspect your
plate has a typo, should read 4800 lbs empty.  Empty means no food, no
clothes, no bedding, no cookware, no water, no propane, etc.  -  not a way
anyone would use it.  I suspect most people add at least 1000 pounds (water,
propane, and non-consumables being a major part of this) for short to
moderate trips, and more for longer trips.


Also, keep in mind that maximum tow ratings for some vehicles are for the
tow vehicle carrying two people and nothing else in the tow vehicle.
Additional items in the tow vehicle are to be deducted from the maximum
allowed trailer weight.  Read and understand all aspects and clauses of the
ratings.



Lauren Countryman
23352