jsmtam90
Vicksburg,Michigan
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Joined: 05/06/2008
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I'm sure this has been ask before, however I would like some opinions on the installation/usage of a tow hitch on back of a fifth wheel. I just bought a new Jayco Eagle ultra light and would like to put a 2" receiver hitch on it to pull my 14ft/8hp fishing boat or possibly pull my Jeep Cj7 behind. Is this a common site to see? too much stress on the trailer frame? I'm sure some crazy things have been seen/done ,however I certainly want to be safe and practical.
* This post was
edited 05/16/08 10:56am by jsmtam90 *
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donn0128
Pronounced Ore-gun
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First off contact the manufacturer for their take on doing it. With a "light weight" trailer the frame is likely not suitable for adding that much extra. Many people tow doubles. It is not legal in many states, so you have to consider that too. It can be done, but again Lippert (the frame manufacturer) will probably say no.
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Arizona 5ers
Peoria, AZ
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We called and asked before we bought the Rockwood. Then had the hitch installed by a reputable shop who installs most of the hitches on trailers around here. We tow a bass boat, our friends tow a Tracker, our neighbors tow a small enclosed trailer with quad and dirt bike.
Very common sight our here in the West.
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Roy T
Dodge City, Kansas
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I've had 2 Jaycos and both owner's manuals prohibited towing. It will void the warranty on certain items, frame, tires, etc.
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Arizona 5ers
Peoria, AZ
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You also have to consider your over all length of tow vehicle, trailer and tow. In Arizona it's 65 feet. That is one reason we bought the 26ft. Rockwood. We're at 63'6 " when we're all hooked up. Some may be slightly over the limit, but that is their choice, not my problem.
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Martyn
Bennett, Colorado, USA
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I have a Coachmen Chaparral 'light' 5er ( a misnomer if you ask me!) with a Lippert frame. Yes, Lippert will not honor a warranty claim if you add a hitch, but I did anyway. I had one professionally designed and welded to the frame. I tow a 17ft Glastron ski boat (2900 GW) with no problems. You have to make your own decision as to whether you want to do it. Lots of my friends have done so and we have never heard of any issues with frames etc. You do have to be aware of the laws in each state through which you double tow. There are numerous web sites out there which give you their take on what is legal in each state - some are accurate, some are not - and it is best to check with the authorities in each state to get the exact rules. Here in Colorado it is legal and the maximum length is 70ft. I am at 67ft when towing double. Just came 130 miles today to the lake and towed just like there was no second trailer. Think it through and make your own decision.
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Jumbo Cranium
Texas where else
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Here is how I did it.
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Glen41
North Texas
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Pulling doubles is much more common out south and west. Don't let the frame police get to you. Call your manuf and get the real scoop. Mine came with a pre-wired receiver from the factory.
FYI something to consider. You cannot back up. That may be the reason it's more popular down here. More space to turn around.
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THE BIGPUNN
west michigan
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check with your local DMV. here in MI you need to take a test to add a tandem endorsement to your drivers license. here its call the "double r."
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SoCalDesertRider
SanDiego, CA, USA
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