When it comes to towing and RV camping, one of the biggest decisions a potential camper owner must make is whether or not to put a long bed camper on a short bed truck. Long bed campers are becoming increasingly popular due to their larger interior space and storage capacity, but can they be safely towed with a short bed truck? The answer is yes, but it requires proper planning and preparation.
The most important factor in determining whether you can safely tow a long bed camper with a short bed truck is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum weight that your truck is designed to carry and includes the weight of the truck, passengers, cargo and trailer. If your camper’s GVWR exceeds the GVWR of your truck then you will not be able to safely tow it with your short bed truck.
It’s also important to consider other factors such as axle ratings. If your long bed camper has axles that are rated higher than those on your short bed truck then it will put additional stress on your vehicle when attempting to tow. Additionally, if your long bed camper has an extended tongue weight—the amount of weight placed on the hitch—it may exceed the tongue weight rating of your short bed truck, causing further strain on its frame.
If you do decide to tow a long bed camper with a short bed truck there are some steps you can take to ensure safety. One option is using an aftermarket suspension system that can help evenly distribute weight across all four tires.
This will help keep your vehicle from becoming overloaded or bottoming out when driving over uneven terrain. Additionally, investing in an electronic brake system will give you better control over braking while driving with a heavier load.
Conclusion:
Overall, putting a long bed camper on a short bed truck is possible but requires careful planning and preparation before attempting it. Be sure to check both the GVWR and axle rating of both vehicles before making any decisions and invest in aftermarket suspension systems or electronic brakes for added safety while towing.
