Hello from a first time RV newbie (Updated 1/21/09)

QUOTE: "I really want to get the EF 500 USM. Maybe someday.

That's a lot of $$$ for a single focal length -- and quite limiting -- save your money and buy a new pair of "sneakers" -- and just get a little closer ...

I got my new RV today. I need to do some more upgrades on my truck. I need to install a set of air bags for more lift and I'm going to do some more engine mods. Here are some pictures.

Hey WP, you really need to study this web page. ( www.dodge.com/en/pdf/2008_ram_2500.pdf ). The max GCWR for your truck is 20,000 lbs. Your dry toung weight along with the weight of your hitch over loads your truck. Anything you add to off set the over weight condition subtracts from your cargo load. It's a no win situation. We have some pretty good brakes on these Dodges but when excessively over loaded you can crack the rotors on your first trip. I only haul 14,000 lbs and am on my third set of brakes at 80,000 miles and I let my trailer brakes do a lot of the work. Study the Dodge pdf. Those are the facts from the maker.

FastEagle

I'm gonna make a bet that the dealer who sold you that 5'er said ... "...your truck will haul it, no problem." Seems like each salesman tape-records that statement and plays it for every buyer...

Look at your Truck in the photos you posted. Very deep in the rear and we don't even know if you are 'packed to go' which will add more weight with personal effects and groceries, and water and fuel ... and you most likely could and probably will have some trouble with weight as FE states. There are some things you can do (short of buying a 3500 truck or even a 4500 - looks like you just bought that 2500), but others here more familiar with hauling these heavy 5'ers can probably tell you better than me what to install that will help -- but, I'd sure investigate this issue before heading out for any long-term RV trips.

Not only the rear weight problem, but lifting the front creates a 'light front' and will effect steering as well, particularly in downhill mountainous areas where you have weight pushing as well as the tail-down / front up situation.

Wildlife Photographer,

I'm sure you're tired of everyone telling you that your truck is undersized. These comments are coming from many years of experience. You probably don't want to hear more advice, but..... regardless of what modifications you make to your Dodge to handle the load, if you're towing overweight (factory specs) and have an accident, your insurance company can deny your claim.

Nice looking trailer though!

Happy and Safe Travels!

Thanks guys for your info. The dealer and the service foreman assured me my truck was fine. Even after I indicated my concerns of how low the rear was. The service foreman recommended an air lift suspension but he felt I was safe to drive home. Some the other guys were clamming they were driving 2500s pulling these big trailers. You are right about the photo. It clearly shows the problem more than standing there and looking at it.

Honestly, driving home I was nervous. I felt I was being pushed around a bit. At times there were some uncomfortable jerking going on. I kept fine tuning the trailer brakes. That was something getting used to. I woke up this morning asking myself, “What have I done?” I bought the truck 14 months ago and it sat covered up for a year. I tried to sell it but decided to go RVing instead. Don’t ask me why it sat for so long, that’s another horrible story. Driving up a 7% grad was unacceptable in my opinion. My best speed was 48 MPH. Personally I expect to drive up a grade no less than 55 MPH. Is that unrealistic?

Now I’m thinking of trading in my two trucks for a bigger hauler. (If I can find someone willing for trade-ins.)

The last thing I want to do is drive unsafe and in fear.