[A/S] Re: Motorhome towing

["Lewis Leistikow" <LewLei@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> - - -  (2) For towing, especially through the mountains, does the 
motorhome 
> need a diesel engine, or will a gasoline engine suffice?
------------------------------------------

Ron, I had a 35' gas engine A/S motorhome (Ford V-10) and towed 
first 
a 4 door Tracker, later a Ranger pick-up with motorcycle in the 
bed.  
The Tracker was around 3,000 lbs and the Ranger probably went to 
just 
under 4,000 with the bike and loader mechanism I used.

Performance was marginal in the mountains.  Crossing Western Passes, 
I 
was often down as low as 30 - 35 in first gear.  (This was a full-
timing rig, so somewhat heavier than for vacations).  Aside from the 
power (or lack of it), the ride was harsh and the steering allowed 
it to wander if you didn't pay close attention to the road.  I had 
it 
in several times to check alignment etc and all was correct each 
time.  I loved the motorhome to live in, but didn't like driving 
it.  
But, that is just one opinion.  Many folks love everything about 
them.  In conversations comparing gas with diesel, it seems that the 
diesel rigs ride better, steer better and have greater power.

Lew