Archive - Aluminium Camper Forum

Towing and Tow Vehicle => Tow Rigs => Topic started by: drake on July 13, 2016, 06:26:25 PM

Title: TV Upgrade
Post by: drake on July 13, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
I wasn't happy with the way my Avalanche handled our 21BHS . . . swapped it out for a GMC Sierra with 6.2 / 3.73 / NHT . . . so much better!

I am a little surprised at how much the tongue weight drops the truck, close to 3" with a high enough hitch to end up with the trailer flat.  Think I might move the battery to the rear bumper or maybe under the bunk, still have not decided on which battery system to go with though.


(http://imgur.com/IXiWrPc)
[img style="" style="max-width:100%;" src="http://imgur.com/IXiWrPc"]
(http://i.imgur.com/IXiWrPc.jpg)
Title: TV Upgrade
Post by: admin on July 14, 2016, 08:21:27 AM
Congrats. I've also noticed the Avalanche's suspension drops a lot with even a mild load. However I assume that is because of is ride being geared towards daily driving. It also has a decent forward rake when unloaded so it seems like it is all expected behavior.
The Sierra is a really nice truck though. Dare I say one of the top truck lines available that provides comfort and luxury.
Title: TV Upgrade
Post by: ammobob on July 14, 2016, 02:55:34 PM
Had the same problem with my RAM 1500 so I installed airbags in the springs. Fixed my problem.
Title: TV Upgrade
Post by: drake on July 14, 2016, 04:36:17 PM
Right on, I thought about that as well.

As the hitch weight rating for this guy is 600 lbs weight bearing, and 1,000 lbs weight distribution, think I might just order an Andersen WDH and be done with it.  I need a minimum of WD, but would appreciate the sway control the Andersen seems to offer.  I've noticed it's really popular on this forum, some mod have stock in Andersen?? : )
Title: TV Upgrade
Post by: david on July 14, 2016, 06:35:54 PM
I too have been puzzled by the almost fanatical support here for the Andersen WDH. I am sure that it does a fine job of sway control with its pivoting cone of friction material. But its geometry with the chains pulling only a few inches down from the hitch centerline makes its weight distribution capability anemic.

A trunnion bar type WDH with a friction slide arm for sway control will nicely provide both functions. I like this Reese hitch for that capability plus bolt on frame attachments- https://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distribution/Reese/RP66559.html

David