Throwing out a line to see if any own and tow a "park trailer" such as the Jayco Bungalow.
From what I can tell, this differs from a "park model" in that it has holding tanks, a 12V electrical system, fresh water tank and pump, etc. It differs from a "travel trailer" in that it has residential appliances (no gas/electric combo on the fridge and water heaters) that prohibit boondocking. Otherwise it has slides, metal sides, rubber roof and looks just like a travel trailer except for the front profile.
I have been using a regular TT (Sunset Creek 312 bhds) as a "seasonal camper" (put it up in a CG for 3 or 4 months, enjoy it, then move it). The Bungalow has much more room, better insulation, washer/dryer capable, more hot water, etc. However, I don't know if I want to commit to longer terms at the CG than I have been doing.
Question is: How practical will it be to tow one of these two or three times a year? I know at the least I would have to get heavier distribution bars. Long at 40' for many spots, and concerned about sway. The GCWR is around 12,500 libs., towing with 2006 Ford 6.0 PSD SRW.
Anyone out there with experience towing park trailers?
My Weekend warrior was 41' and topped out at 18,000 pounds fully loaded and it towed very well.
Biggest issue with some of the park models (as far as towing goes) is the lack of carrying capacity. On some models, you can't really pack anything in them for travel without exceeding the axle ratings.
Bryan
2000 Ford E350 DRW Wagon (14-pass all captains chairs)
V10 w/ Banks PowerPack, Diablo Predator, 4.56 LS, 250,000+ miles
Had: Weekend Warrior 41' FSW
Biggest problem will be length, front windows (rocks) and the fact that most trucks do not have the ability to handle a rear mounted hitch pulled trailer of that size. Most receiver's are not rated for the type of weight/load.
Be sure to investigate all numbers' and you may want to call Jayco to see if this unit is "intended" to be really pulled around.
Michael 2 DD's and my DW 6 Acre's in Southern Maine 2009 Crossroads Cruiser CF31SB 2008 Chevy 2500HD LT 4X4 Camping Pictures
The Jayco Bungalow is designed by Jayco to be towed to seasonal lots or RV parks. You wouldn't want to tow it all over the USA as a regular travel trailer, but occasional relocation trips are fine!
Deliveries are made with commercial trucks typically - like Kodiak's and such. At least that's what the local Brekenridge (sp?) uses for deliveries of park models.
I will put something like this on a seasonal lot. I don't think it would hold up to towing down the road for very long. They are built to tow to a sight and leave set up. Axles, tires, suspension and construction are minimum for this task.
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