Posted 2015-06-18 10:23 AM (#163811) Subject: SUV question?
New User
Posts: 1
Location: Florida
Hello,
This is my first post, and to addition to that I am new to the world of trucks/trailers (not to horses)... so I need some advice here! :)
What can I safely pull with an SUV... for example... a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.7L V8 SUV with a towing capacity of 6200 lbs? I don't have that SUV, but am looking for one that can safely haul a 3200 lb steel 3 horse trailer, with 1 horse and two ponies inside. What vehicle do you recommend for this? And I would not be traveling long distances, only to local trails and shows.
Thank you... this is MUCH appreciated!!!
Posted 2015-06-18 1:16 PM (#163812 - in reply to #163811) Subject: RE: SUV question?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
A used Ford Excursion or a GM Suburban is an excellent tow vehicle. The shorter wheel based SUVs are subject to the "tail wagging the dog" gymnastics, whilst navigating curves and heavy braking. Almost any SUV can pull a trailer, but with the high center of gravity, a horse trailer can exert a great deal of misdirection to the rear suspension of any vehicle. The longer the wheel base, the more stable will be the towing vehicle. Also having a tow vehicle with a body on frame construction instead of a unibody, results in a more secure structure onto which the hitch is mounted.
Posted 2015-06-18 4:14 PM (#163814 - in reply to #163811) Subject: RE: SUV question?
Expert
Posts: 1989 Location: South Central OK
A steel three horse, loaded, I wouldn't pull with my F150 or my XL Navigator. I would only do it with a 3/4 ton suburban or Excursion. If you were hoping for a small SUV to do this job I can't think of a safe one. Moving the trailer yes, stopping the trailer no. Even with a brake controller and a weight distributing hitch you will be VERY close to your max tow rating. Best advice, read the MAX LOADED weight off your trailer (I'm guessing you already own it) and find a truck that is matched to tow that weight or more. You aren't going to have much fun if you white-knuckle the entire drive and realize you can't stop the trailer if the brakes glitch out on you. Besides, you know someone will outgrow the pony and then you'll really need the bigger tow vehicle! Towing no more than 80% of your tow vehicles tow rating is a safe recommendation, especially for a new driver that will most likely also have kids in the rig. SAFETY FIRST!
SUV question?
