On Tue, 3 Jun 2008 07:03:17 -0400, "Eisboch" wrote:


"John H." wrote in message
.. .

On Tue, 3 Jun 2008 06:32:58 -0400, "Eisboch" wrote:



Your 4 Runner is too small to tow 4500lbs at highway speeds over long
distances. You really want a full sized, full wheelbase rig, preferably
of
the F-250, (Ford) or 2500 series (GM) that have heavier duty suspensions.
Your 4 Runner may be fine for occasional, short distance towing, but not
for
traveling long distances for hours at a time.

Just my opinion, based on many miles of experience.

Eisboch





Thanks for the input. I may have to drop down to the 3500 lb range. That
keeps me in the 17'-19' range, in the Airstream category. I think that's
probably doable.

I'm not into 'highway speeds' like I used to be. I'm comfortable doing 63
mph in the 65 zone. Actually, it's a much more relaxing way to go. I've
even slowed down on the motorcycle. At 65mph I get about 50 mph, but at 80
mph it will drop down to about 40 mpg.

Thanks for joining the discussion! If I were presented with a 'super' deal
on a certain style Class B, I could still be tempted! It's funny, neither
the Sprinter based Class B's nor the Airstreams seem to depreciate a whole
lot.

How's the new boat?


We've decided we really like the Sprinter and will keep it. I am using it
more often for local trips, just to exercise it.
It's an amazing little vehicle .... lots of "pep", comfortable, yet still
gets relatively decent fuel mileage. Plus, it easily tows the Haulmark
trailer loaded with a motorcycle and other "stuff".

One thing I like is it's range. My little Ford Ranger gets 16-17 mpg
overall but because of the small tank it seems like I have to get gas every
week or less. The Sprinter gets 18-21 mpg, but because of the much larger
fuel tank I can drive it around for a month (locally) without having to
constantly stop to refuel.

The boat is still at the seller's marina on the NH/MA line. They are
supposed to be doing a couple of minor maintenance issues and replacing some
exhaust hoses, but they are at the peak of their "busy" season and it's
taking longer than expected to complete.
It should be ready this week for me to make the trip to Cape Cod.
Hopefully.

Eisboch


You know, I may relook the Sprinter thing, and just get rid of one of our
other vehicles. You've had good luck towing the trailer. I wonder how the
thing would do towing a 3000lb boat/trailer and launching same. If I could
do that, I could get rid of the 4Runner. If not, then the Highlander would
have to go.

Decisions, decisions. Another advantage to a Class B is that I could park
it in front of the house. I can't park a trailer there for long or the
neighbors will complain. I don't like the idea of storing it in a lot where
it's subject to break-ins.

Hope the boat gets ready for pickup. Also hope to see lots of pictures!
--
John *H*