27 replies to this topic

[Happyjax]

I don't think anyone on this site is a jerk but I do know that some make decisions without understanding all of the risks involved. Brakes are a big one and I have read a few scary stories on that. The problem is never when everything is going well it is always when something doesn't. I don't ever want to read about anyone getting hurt or killed because they or someone else was driving way overloaded. I am glad to have found this board and I have gotten so much good info that will help me when I get my rig. I had never heard of GVW before this site and it is only through the posts I've read that I now know what it is and how important it is for my safety. I could have easily been one of the folks who got overweight (okay I've put on a few pounds) and not known until I was committed in a set up and then what....

I hope I didn't offend but I do believe it is very important to follow the guidelines as best we can. The life we save may be one of the wonderful folks we have met right here.

[DanT]

KILROY you're not so bad yourself.

 

Happyjax, , no offense taken.

" I don't think anyone on this site is a jerk "  don't be so sure.  

I'm just joking around with you. I was agreeing with the comment that you made concerning how people sometimes boast about running their trucks successfully overloaded but when they get in a wreck all of a sudden the load was not toooo heavy. It's all part of being responsible, mature and understanding that your actions on the road could have life and death consequences.

FYI, I haven't actually run across any jerks here but that does't mean there not out there.

[Happyjax]

Thanks DanT,

I really appreciate the great info and fun stuff and awesome pictures I get from this site. It has been my place to go for the last month. I would not want to alienate anyone by my posts. I do tend to say what I think though... that's why I stay away from Twitter...lol

[100acrehuphalump]

I have a newer made 1/2 ton F150 with 14.5 " disc brakes all around so I feel a little better. I've also added airbags and an add a leaf in the rears. Plus E rated tires and Bilstein 4600 coil overs in the front and reg 4600 in the rear. It has the tow package as well. I hope it will be enough for my Hawk.

Edited by 100acrehuphalump, 05 March 2015 - 02:43 PM.

[Cayuse]

I'm running a 2002 Grandby on a 2008 Tundra Dbl Cab with air bags and E rated tires.  It was a case of having the truck before the camper so I added the bags and upgraded the tires when it was time.  I use pressure treated 2x4's to support the extra length and to give it the extra height needed to clear the bed rails.

[Happyjax]

I am fortunate that I have neither truck or camper so I am getting a new start with way more info than many others had. I can see where I would have been in the same spot had I not found all of the info here. It is amazing how an 850 lb camper turns into a 1600 lb monster when you feed it water, propane, a couple batteries and a solar panel or 2.....

[100acrehuphalump]

I just cancelled my order for my 130 lbs of rock sliders.

[Happyjax]

Wow they are heavy.....

[iowahiker]

Brakes and 1/2 tons:  I looked through my magazine road test reports:

 

1.  Current 1/2 ton trucks stop in 125-134 feet from 60 mph empty.

2.  Current 3/4 - 1 ton trucks stop in 135-150+ feet from 60 mph empty.

3.  3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks weigh more so larger brakes are a wash or worse than current 1/2 tons.

4.  Worse brakes: 1 ton diesel 4x4 crew cab DRW because of the weight, over 8,000 pounds empty.

5.  Buy a HD truck for great springs and bearings and frame.  The 1 ton diesel 4x4 DRW can have up to 3 separate spring packs.  The secondary pack is larger than my 8,200 GVWR primary spring pack.

[100acrehuphalump]

Wow they are heavy.....

Actually rock sliders should be on the heavier side and typically run close to 90 lbs each. Those running boards and steps you see on many trucks really don't offer any real protection from rocky roads.