Towing behind a 2007 3400 Big Sky

[sanford1945]

I bought a used 2007 3400 Big Sky with a slide hitch on it, I dont know if it was factory or added? Would it hurt the 5vr to tow a 2500# trailer behind it? Thanks

[CmdrDewey]

Some will disagree with me but Montana does not recommend it and I think it is unsafe. At 2500# you are probably way over the GCVWR of any one ton truck.

[Art-n-Marge]

Yup, I have heard the same of CmdrDewey regarding the double tow. As far as using the 5er to tow besides the weight concerns for the TV, there would be weight concerns for the Monty not designed to tow that much weight behind it with its existing frame. Right off the bat, Keystone/Montana would say know. They have enough concerns with some of their units or other owners added the rear hitch just for bicycles.

On the other hand there are some that have done it, are doing it and making mods to support it all. But a detailed education on what's there and what is needed to prevent problems are probably highly recommended. Don't forget the correct Class A license, too (at least, California requires it).

I'm just curious, but what do you mean when you say about the Big Sky "with a slide hitch on it"? What is this device?

[richfaa]

Most manufacturers do not recommend it and most will void the waranty if you do. keystone does put a small, flimsy hitch on many of the models OEM. I would like to be able to tow the Honda Accord behind the 3400 but for one thing with the Big truck, nearly 40 foot 3400 and Honda we would be over the length limits in most states. I would also be concerned with the extra weight we would have to pull. However...many , many folks do it. They been "doing it for years and never had a problem"
We are just not one of them.

[sanford1945]

When I said a slide hitch I meant a receiver hitch sorry guys for the confussion. My main concern was wether the frame would take it. I just talked to a guy that has been pulling 3500# behind his 04 model Big Sky with no concerns. Thanks for all your imput

[Delaine and Lindy]

Don't know if you can, but you better make sure the rear hitch has been properly set up, as in what and how is the cross supports set up. I may be wrong but I believe you have a 10" frame. I for sure would have a professional welder who has installed rear receiver hitchs take a look and see if you need more support such as gussets etc. With the kind of weight I would also have some kind of braking for trailer you will be towing behind the 5th wheel. And I would recomend a rear camera on the 5th wheel. Warranty shouldn't be a issue on a 2007 Big Sky. Good Luck. GBY....

[clutch]

Warranty is no longer an issue on an 07. We tow a small flat trailer with a couple of quads on it. If you go much over 2000lbs I think brakes on the trailer would be desired. I see a lot of Montanas pulling small trailers with quads or motorcycles or golf carts and nobody that I have talked to have had any problems. Try it and see how it works for you on a short trip.

[thor]

alot of people double tow.a 2500lb trailer ,the tougue wieght should be around 12 to 15 % of the total weight of the trailer put the trailer on and go for a short drive .if your comfortable with it then you can decide weather to do it or not.

[sanford1945]

Thanks everyone I am going to do it. California law says you must have brakes on it and not be over 65ft. Also you must have a class A lic. with a double endorsment.

[TLightning]

If I was in your position, I'd call the maker of the frame...they should give you the correct information. And, since warranty is expired, that won't be an issue.

Just my two cents, but I would not tow ANYTHING behind this flimsy frame.

[richfaa]

You are going to be in excess of 65 feet long. The real measured length of that 3400 is going to be over 39 feet.

[sreigle]

As Rich said, length is an issue. Back in my even-dumber-than-now days I towed a 19' bassboat behind a 25 1/2 foot long fifthwheel. We were at 64' 10" total length. In our state the law says no more than 65' for triples. Be sure you know the limit in your state.

The 2007 models did not come with a factory option for a rear hitch unless maybe they started that late in the model year. At some point in the past they did, and maybe still do, have a rear hitch option. However, I don't think it had a very high weight rating. It was intended more for carrying bicycles, etc. If I understand correctly, if you exceed that hitch rating you are effectively nullifying the Montana's frame warranty.

If it all works out for you, good luck.

[sanford1945]

With my 3400 and Truck I can still pull a 11 ft trailer and be under 65ft. Thanks again for your imput