2013 F250 & 2012 Montana

[Boogie]

I need some help. I’m a first timer. I have a 2013 Ford F250 crew cab short bed 4x4 with the 6.7 diesel engine. I’m buying a 2012 Montana 3400rl. The dealer states it’s 34ft long. The Vin# is 4YDF34029C4700362. I did the Vin research and it didn’t provide any additional information. Can it be determined by the Vin what length this 5th wheel trailer is? Can my truck pull this trailer without being overloaded?

[Carl n Susan]

A 2012 3400 is 37.5 feet long, not 34'. The model number is not representative of the length despite what the salesman tells you. It weighs around 12,500 lbs. empty and has a GVWR of 15,640 lbs.

You would be better off with a 1 ton truck for the pin weight (you will be close to the limit) but there are many members here towing bigger Montanas with a F250.

[Boogie]

I have researched to the end, and it was my conclusion it wasn’t a 34ft trailer. Back to the drawing board to find me a 5th wheel trailer with washer dryer setup to be installed or already installed. I have accepted employment in California and will be living in it.

[Boogie]

The trailer park I’m staying at in California has a maximum trailer length of 34ft. That is the reason for length limitation.

[Carl n Susan]

The 3400RL was a *VERY* popular model Montana. The extra 3 feet of length isn't a problem in towing. Plus the washer/dryer is in an excellent location rather than the normal bedroom closet, hard to access, placement.

[Boogie]

I love the trailer, my limited length requirement at the park has me handicapped.

[Mikendebbie]

Here is a screen shot from the spec page of the 2012 brochure…

[Boogie]

It definitely says it’s a 3400RL. I’m discussed with this salesman. Up front I told him on a phone call any trailer I bought couldn’t be over 34ft long. He said got one, come on down. My wife, a friend and I drove an 1hour and a half to the dealership. We got there and again I told him it couldn’t be over 34ft long. He re-assured me it wasn’t. I have know the owner of the dealership for many years, and they are good people. I don’t know if this salesman is ignorant or just a liar, but I’m totally disappointed.

[Carl n Susan]

The stated length doesn't include the protrusion of the ladder on the rear and the end of the hitch on the front. If you have an iPhone, there is an App installed that allows you to measure the length of things. Very handy to check the length of a Montana.

[BB_TX]

There are people who still think the model number reflects the length. Hence 3400 must be 34’ long. Wrong. My 3075RL was 34’-8” long.

[twindman]

Maybe a Mountaineer or newer version - High Country 295rk if you can find one. 34 ft and pin weight about right for you. Pretty much otherwise you will have to go to a different rv model, I think.

[Boogie]

So the 37.5 length is actually longer including the ladder and the hitch?

[Boogie]

I’m getting a tough lesson in life. Thankfully I didn’t put much down, and can come out ok. I don’t have but two weeks to come with a trailer before I have to pull out. But, I’m a positive thinking person. If anyone hears of anything, let me know!

[BB_TX]

Originally Posted by Boogie

So the 37.5 length is actually longer including the ladder and the hitch?

The Montana brochure defines the stated length as from the center of the king pin to the rear of the bumper.

[Carl n Susan]

The hitch portion isn't much and extends out in front so it probably isn't a limiting factor. The ladder is 6" or so on the back but it is up off the ground and unless you have a solid wall behind you it usually isn't a problem.

It is somewhat unusual to have a 34' site restriction. Most spots have space in the rear that you can overhang. Apparently the spot you have must be really limited.

[jsb5717]

Are you looking to buy in Arkansas and tow to CA?

Here's a 2008 near Tulsa that fits your size limitation
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/rv...570480256.html

Here's one just over the border in Missouri although someone took out the couches
https://springfield.craigslist.org/r...567827250.html

[Boogie]

I will call and check them out, Thanks!

[Joint Venture II]

Originally Posted by jsb5717

Are you looking to buy in Arkansas and tow to CA?

Here's a 2008 near Tulsa that fits your size limitation
https://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/rv...570480256.html

Here's one just over the border in Missouri although someone took out the couches
https://springfield.craigslist.org/r...567827250.html

That 2955RL Montana has a very good price on it too. Pretty comfortable to live in too.

[Boogie]

I want a completely furnished trailer.

[Foldbak]

The exact reason I purchased my 295RL. Most parks in CA have limited space for anything over 34'. The 295 isn't 29'6", it's 34'



Good luck