I didn't know whether to post here, or in camping, but...I am planning in the next year or so, to retire, downsize, buy an Airstream, and wander a bit. Probably a 24/26 ft airstream. What should I be looking at to haul it that is adequate but doesn't suck down more gas than I need?
Time to figure out my "phase II" (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter mvk28
- Start date
This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.
Something matched to the TV...and if it's a used unit, check ALL systems and walls and roof for leaks, or leak damage.
- Thread starter
- #3
Thanks, but I just might buy my Airstream new, unless I find something extraordinary in the used category. I'll pretty much be living in it most of the year. I have to start researching what kind of car/truck I want to haul it around. It should have plenty of power, but small enough to use as a car when I decide to hang fo awhile in one place. I really don't even know where to begin to get educated about all of this. I thought maybe you folks could point me to some guidance? Keep in mind, I'm talking maybe 18 months out. Certainly not tomorrow. 
For hauling I'd lean to 4th Gen 4R V8, Tundra V8 or LC 100. I'm pretty sure the 4R gets the best MPG's out of all those. Sounds like fun!
-Daniel Kent
-Daniel Kent
ntsqd
technerd
I'd start with the Airstream's weight, then research suitable tow vehicles based on that. Keep in mind that getting the Airstream moving won't be the challenge. Stopping it will be. Even with trailer brakes if the tow rig's brakes aren't up to the job it will eventually bite you in, as Dave Barry put it, the "Behindular Zone."
My suspicion is that you'll have to put up with a slightly larger than perhaps desirable tow rig in order to get enough braking capacity to be safe.
My suspicion is that you'll have to put up with a slightly larger than perhaps desirable tow rig in order to get enough braking capacity to be safe.
tucker74
Moderator
Some friends of ours have a 25' Bambi, while they are nice they sure aren't light He eventually upgraded to a 3/4 Dodge Cummins to pull it on long trips comfortably, this was from a V8 4Runner. Might look into a Casita or Scamp if you're trying to keep the weight down, the Airstreams sure are nice though ...
Tucker
He eventually upgraded to a 3/4 Dodge Cummins to pull it on long trips comfortably, this was from a V8 4Runner. Might look into a Casita or Scamp if you're trying to keep the weight down, the Airstreams sure are nice though ...Tucker
Depending on what you're towing with, you might look at a Casita if you want light and versatile.
I have a friend who pulls one with an Isuzu Trooper. He get's about 16 mpg pulling it. Course he put a supercharger on the engine so he could drag it up the mountains in Georgia! The Casita comes in single axle and double axle. But if you are planning on Snow Birding in it you might want something bigger if you've got a significant other to take into consideration. My buddys wife goes with him but they say the trailer gets real small after a few weeks on the road.
I like the aerodynamics of them.
I have a friend who pulls one with an Isuzu Trooper. He get's about 16 mpg pulling it. Course he put a supercharger on the engine so he could drag it up the mountains in Georgia! The Casita comes in single axle and double axle. But if you are planning on Snow Birding in it you might want something bigger if you've got a significant other to take into consideration. My buddys wife goes with him but they say the trailer gets real small after a few weeks on the road.
I like the aerodynamics of them.
