LMA7202
07-24-2012, 10:07 PM
Not sure if it was luck or proper preparation, but I just completed a 2,078 mile tow from Niceville, FL to San Diego, CA. I took I-10 to I-8. The tow vehicle was a 2009 DodgeRam 1500 4x4 Laramie. The load was a 2012 Cape Horn 24XS (7,500 lbs). Tongue weight was 750. 2012 magic tilt tandem axel trailer with surge breaks. My plan was to travel no more than 400-500 miles per day, traveling no faster than 55-60 MPH and stopping every 2 hrs for 20-30 minutes. My goal was to not push more than 2500 RPM and stay below 2000 when ever and where ever practical. My concerns were tranny/engine temp, tire temp, and bearing temp. The weeks leading up to the trip, I had my truck inspected and serviced as required and went to the dealership with my VIN to see that the truck was properly equipped for the haul. I have the heavy duty engine cooler, tow/haul, 3.92 gear ratio, 32 gal tank but 20" wheels. The trucks GCVW is 13,000 lbs. The total load was just under 14,000. I started the trip averaging 15 mpg, got as low as 8.3, and finished with 10.3. No problems whatsoever. Post op checks and services show no issues with fluids or components in tranny, front/rear dif, or transfer case. No additional tread wear on truck tires. Trailer tires have a little but I believe that's because I didn't balance out the tires. Now to hurry up and un-pack so I can go fishing!!