Though I have seen many topics on RV length I have yet to see one on RV width. I am planning on FTing in a TT, but I guess a fiver would be the same, as far as width goes. Never having towed a trailer over 8 ft (96") is 100" too wide to safely travel down narrow back roads, in road construction areas, etc.? My reason for asking is not purely academic, as I am looking at the new Sprinter wide body series TTs by Keystone. If you are unfamiliar with this line here is a brief video intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiy_7ys0ebE&list=PLKGJ3cl0tWOqnOgl9GWnVoSu9OcNRWf2y
I am looking at the 331RLS-WB model http://rvwholesalesuperstore.com/keystone/sprinter/331rls/ If selected I would move the chairs opposite the entertainment center, ditch the couch and move the dinette to the rear with a narrower table and side-by side seating so we can enjoy the view out the rear as we dine. This also gives us some space on each side of the table for additional storage, as well as added storage in the deep slide-out. I like the fact that this relatively inexpensive unit has a good insulation package, (even though we plan on moving where the weather suits our clothes) unlike many cheaper TTs, not to mention the additional square footage (that is well utilized with deeper cabinets, larger water tanks, etc.). I plan on towing with my 3/4 ton, (12,500lb tow rating) so this is at the top of the weight limit (8,000 lbs UVW/11,000 GVW) that I'm considering. At around $27k new it's affordable, especially if we can find a gently used one 2-3 years old, as we won't be needing it for another 4 years.
What do you experienced FTers think? Is 100" too wide to be practical?
Chip
-- Edited by Sushidog on Sunday 13th of July 2014 02:19:26 PM
-- Edited by Sushidog on Sunday 13th of July 2014 02:38:25 PM
Glenn West said
02:27 PM Jul 13, 2014
Mine is 102" wide. Wouldn't have it any other way. Actually a wide body is a requirement for us.
Lucky Mike said
02:37 PM Jul 13, 2014
Mine is a class A 102"........I guess too wide is when it is in the oncoming traffic lane...or at least your mirrors to see around it!!!!
Sushidog said
02:40 PM Jul 13, 2014
Thanks folks. I'm mainly concerned about narrow road construction zones and such. I know some states east of the MS have width restrictions. I don't guess these are enforced though?
Chip
TRAILERKING said
04:00 PM Jul 13, 2014
102" is maximum width up here........and really no problem to get around. You'll go anywhere a semi(highway tractor) will go as long as you are comfortable to pilot it.
dewwood said
04:39 PM Jul 13, 2014
102 inches is the legal width on almost all roads. Most tractor trailers are 102 wide. You should not have any issues.
Sushidog said
06:34 PM Jul 13, 2014
Thanks for the info. You guys are great! I guess the 100 inch wide Sprinter is a go then.
Some states only allow you to travel by interstate (or on your way to and from) if over 8' wide.
"How far you can stray from the interstate varies by state. Louisiana allows a 10-mile radius, while Maryland limits your freedom to 1 mile."
Since there is so much concern expressed online about being a few pounds overweight, it surprises me that there is not a similar concern about being a few inches over-width. Could an insurance company deny a claim if you were sideswiped and it could be proven that you were technically in violation of the state's width law - say you were caught 12 miles from an interstate in Louisiana, my home state? Or your mirrors exceeded 102 inches in Massachusetts or New Hampshire even though the body of your rig is in compliance and they hit an oncoming vehicle?
I don't guess there would be a problem unless involved in an accident and the insurance co. lawyers pulled out the regs in an attempt to deny or reduce their liability in a claim.
Chip
Neil and Connie said
12:21 PM Jul 14, 2014
The extra 6 inches doesn't make any difference on the road…you'll still have roads that you aren't comfortable on. So if you like the extra interior room it gives you then go for it. Getting into campsites it also makes no real difference…there are some places that have length limits but in 2 years we've never been anyplace we couldn't get our wide body rig into.
Terry and Jo said
08:49 PM Jul 14, 2014
On the other hand, here comes negativity.
Our fifth wheel is a 101-inches wide, and if at all possible, I avoid construction zones that I know about. I've seen some places (think Oklahoma) where a quick side gust of wind could cause an issue if one was in an area where there were concrete guardrails.
Just this last week, we visited the Palo Duro Canyon near Canyon, Texas. While there are a few campgrounds in the canyon, because of some construction in that area, the park personnel were advising great caution if going beyond the first campground and thus encountering the construction areas.
On the other hand, we've camped in Forest Service campgrounds where the roads were plenty wide enough for entry and exit. In fact, most of those roads were wide enough for two campers to meet and pass each other as long as they were watchful of where the road was not inhibited by fallen rock or trees.
So, I guess the answer to your question is, "It depends." In your first paragraph, were you referring to single lane roads, or just narrow two lane ones?
Terry
Sushidog said
06:53 AM Jul 15, 2014
Terry and Jo, following the faulty directions of Mapquest I have unintentionally taken some scary, one-lane roads. Many of the places I like to camp in my Aliner are down winding, mountainous roads (usually in the Appalachian and Smokey mountains) which are very narrow in many places where only one vehicle can pass at a time. I don't plan on taking my home-on-wheels to these places, however, as the risk of damaging something or having an accident on these rough dirt roads is pretty high, with blind turns, low hanging limbs, trees and vegetation that encroach the sides of the road, and even edge wash-outs and drop-offs that could be disastrous if one gets over a little too far to allow a car to pass on the inside of the mountain.
I'm mainly interested in traveling down narrow two lane highways, paved secondary roads, through towns and yes narrow road construction zones. I visited Palo Duro and Caprock Canyons last year. It was rainy and some spots impassable due to the high water over the road, but there was no road construction at that time. I can imagine that backing a 35 ft, wide TT for long distances (around turns, uphill, etc.) out of a tight spot would be challenging to say the least.
I guess the best rule of thumb is slow and easy does it when approaching road construction zones. If traffic backs up, one could pull over occasionally to let it by. I plan on traveling mostly at low traffic times (at night and early morning) as much as possible, to reduce stopping and braking and to facilitate lower speed towing to imcrease my fuel mileage, stretching my meager fuel budget of around $300-$350/mo. I plan on taking a couple small, high MPG motorbikes with me when FTing (again to stretch my around town fuel budget). Maybe I could use one of these to scout out questionable roads leading to a desired boondockig area before committing my rig down an unsafe or impassable road I might soon regret. I'll name my little bikes Recon 1 and Recon 2.
Chip
SnowGypsy said
06:10 PM Jul 17, 2014
No personal experience ourselves but we knew a couple that replaced their 8 foot with the wider model and they said that when they were down in TX, they often regretted getting the wider unit. Even with our 8' TT, we came across some tight spots. I think it will depend a lot on what you are used to and where you will be traveling. I can think of some places in AZ that I wouldn't want anything wider than it had to be. I remember in the old magazine advertisements for A-liner it said "No boundaries" and I always loved that as what could be more perfect than that?
TRAILERKING said
07:00 PM Jul 17, 2014
SnowGypsy wrote:
.........................they often regretted getting the wider unit.
Myself I can't see how there would be that much difference going from 96" to 102"
You aren't going to notice 6" in width running down the road. The real noticeable difference would be going through a narrow doorway in a shop. My building that I store my coach in had a 10' wide door and it was real close dealing with that. I since upgraded to a 12' wide..............................Way nicer.
Terry and Jo said
08:37 PM Jul 17, 2014
TRAILERKING wrote:
SnowGypsy wrote:
.........................they often regretted getting the wider unit.
Myself I can't see how there would be that much difference going from 96" to 102"
You aren't going to notice 6" in width running down the road. The real noticeable difference would be going through a narrow doorway in a shop. My building that I store my coach in had a 10' wide door and it was real close dealing with that. I since upgraded to a 12' wide..............................Way nicer.
Bernie,
The original poster asked specifically about narrow roads, and in some of those cases, 6 inches is a lot. I'm from the Oklahoma/Texas area and I can attest that there are places that are a lot more challenging with the extra 6 inches, especially if one meets another with the extra 6 inches. While the couple that SnowGypsy mentioned are from that area, they have likely experienced areas that led them to regret the wider RV.
Don't discount the experiences of others.
Terry
TRAILERKING said
08:44 PM Jul 17, 2014
Terry and Jo wrote:
Don't discount the experiences of others.
Terry
Didn't mean to belittle someone..........I guess it just doesn't bother me.
I have my Class 1A and experienced, so I don't feel overwhelmed like some.
Bernie
Sushidog said
09:16 PM Jul 17, 2014
The Sprinter TTs that caught my eye are 100" wide - only 4 inches wider than the standard 96" trailers. It's a big jump compared to my 78" (6 1/2 ft) wide Aliner though, which is about the same width as my F-250.
Chip
Trabuco said
10:14 PM Jul 17, 2014
Chip,
I don't think I'd let the roads dictate the kind of RV I would purchase. We've been all over this country on some pretty small roads and our rig is 102" wide by 60' long with toad. You slow down on the smaller roads. Purchase the rig you like and you will learn to handle it.
We like to stay off interstates as much as possible which puts us on to secondary roads and even though the roads are narrower the slower pace makes it a more enjoyable drive, IMHO..
TRAILERKING said
10:38 PM Jul 17, 2014
All the highway/tour buses are 102" wide, except some of the older ones. They go all over the place.
The Junkman said
10:58 PM Jul 17, 2014
I've run a 24' trailer, 102" wide on the worse roads in the country.. never a problem.. never a accident..
Ever run those constructions zones in PA few years back ? Everyone running 60mph + side by side.. tight.. We used to go to Rausch Creek off road park, alot..
The mountain roads in Vermont / NH.. Some NY are no joke either.. twisted swirly roads.. Check out the ski areas near Stowe mt.. fun..
No worries.. it's all good.. 102" I always thought was the standard.. Anything smaller is the exception..
Glenn West said
08:08 AM Jul 18, 2014
I see more problems with height than width. But they are roads in Texas that my dually has to get on shoulder to pass another car. I wouldn't take any camper down those roads.
Trabuco said
09:03 AM Jul 18, 2014
I agree with Glenn, I'm always more concerned about height than width.
SnowGypsy said
09:18 AM Jul 18, 2014
TRAILERKING wrote:
SnowGypsy wrote:
.........................they often regretted getting the wider unit.
Myself I can't see how there would be that much difference going from 96" to 102"
You aren't going to notice 6" in width running down the road. The real noticeable difference would be going through a narrow doorway in a shop. My building that I store my coach in had a 10' wide door and it was real close dealing with that. I since upgraded to a 12' wide..............................Way nicer.
Well, the couple we knew noticed it and regretted it. The one thing that many people don't understand and I hear all the time is "Well, if I can do it, anyone can." That is not necessarily true. We have gotten off the beaten path and we were not seeing any tour buses there as it was difficult to keep the van and pop-up from slipping off the road and there was no side of the road. As I said "A-Liner: No boundaries" I'm thinking since we are "campers" versus RVers that is where I see this difference may be. We also take special care and precautions with ourselves and our possessions. I briefly considered a toyhauler and came across a website where the manufacturer does custom builds and these could be from very basis to whatever and they did do narrower units and prices didn't look that bad so that might be worth looking into. I was surprised to see that many manufacturers now are offering less than 8' units again.
BiggarView said
11:06 AM Jul 18, 2014
I would think that "what is too wide?" is highly subjective. Each person, in their expereience, will find out what is "too wide". How? My gut tells me if you get white knuckles too often while driving these large vehicles because they feel too close to objects on either side, then that is by definition "too wide". Respect that feeling, but don't let it rule you and don't get arrogant either. Too much confidence has been the cause of many accidents. Practice and experience will go a long way to mitigating the white knuckle feeling as you become accustomed to it.
That being said, you may never get used to it, perhaps then this is not right for you. Each has their own comfort zone. My first trip out in a 32' class C had me somewhat tense the first day, less so the second and fairly comfortable by the third. But that is just me, your mileage may vary as they say. Will driving a dually with a 35-40 foot long and even wider trailer than the class C cause some anxiety? Probably at first(all new and different than driving a small car)... but that is something I will deal with.
Adrenalin is good for you, it aids in fighting your fear. Practice in empty parking lots, develope your comfort zone, know your limits, know the limits of the equipment and the nervous feeling of "too wide" will hopefully subside.
JMHO FWIW
Brian
Taking a class driving with such a rig would be a good idea too
-- Edited by biggaRView on Friday 18th of July 2014 11:10:06 AM
-- Edited by biggaRView on Friday 18th of July 2014 11:56:59 AM
The Junkman said
11:13 AM Jul 18, 2014
Backed my 24' cargo trailer into my warehouse in a left turn.. Boy was it tough..
the 43' drv is gonna give me hell the first few times I have to cut it into a spot or something.. Wide , long, and tall.. yep.. I'm a little nervous.. lol
TRAILERKING said
11:15 AM Jul 18, 2014
Yes I can remember when my wife would always freak-out................."Why are you in the other lane"?
Driving in the Peterbilt or the Coach, she is looking through the windshield from her passenger seat. She's looking towards the drivers side corner and appears that 1/2 the unit is in the other lane.
Trabuco said
11:24 AM Jul 18, 2014
Trailerking,
Funny you mention that, we've had many conversations along that line. I have the DW drive part of the time and we have both gained new perspectives.......so to speak! LOL
Glenn West said
11:45 AM Jul 18, 2014
Junkman I had a 32TK3 Mobile Suites, two axles. Now have the Teton 39' 3" three axles and I have less trouble backing it. The shorter two axle unit I would have to pull up more due to being unable to straighten up unit. The longer 3 axles are smoother, less pulling up to straighten. Believe you will be good and happy with your unit. I question your tow vehicle, but you will have to be the judge of that. Hard to convince someone when they have already shelled out the bucks. The the OP, in 8 years of rv full timing we have never had an issue with width, and both our units were/are wide body.
The Junkman said
01:43 PM Jul 18, 2014
Glenn West wrote:
I question your tow vehicle,
Why ?.. There like 5 people I spoke to so far pulling 43 / 44' DRV'S.. with the RAM 3500..And they have posted here and other fourms.. They are all happy.. one even sold off the the tractor trailer and bought a RAM..
Is all RAM 3500's you have a issue with? This isn't a New Horizons we are pulling, you know..
The number are what they are .. and I'm not even close to max.. as some say.. I have a built in cushion..
Btw.. What do you pull with?
Glenn West said
01:52 PM Jul 18, 2014
It will be as heavy as a New Horizon. Please don't get upset. Didn't intend that. Save that till you get it and it loaded. I argued the same thing and now getting a HDT.
The Junkman said
02:41 PM Jul 18, 2014
lol.. I'm not upset..
Seems it goes both ways..
I think it matters how much you move and travel too. we will be moving once a month .. 4 hour transport.. If a 3500 can't manage that, Any 3500... I'm not Rv'ing.. lol..
I think alot depends on the driver too. Like someone said, if your not comfortable pulling it.. Get a bigger truck.. or rent a condo..or maybe some better not pull anything at all.( not saying you )
Was it a 13/14 RAM you couldn't pull your Teton with? or something else?
Glenn West said
03:21 PM Jul 18, 2014
It has plenty of power. The Teton has great brakes. I look like an ant pulling a mountain. Also at max on pin, bed sides too high, Teton already 13' 3" so raising it out of question. Hauler bed will put over max pin and overload spring is arched downward loaded now. Air bags will raise truck so that won't work. HDT solution. With it pin no problem. no bed sides. If brakes fail on camper hdt will stop it. Your 43" Lexington will be heavier than my Teton. There is no difference in rear max weight on our trucks. I believe you will have as bad or worse issues than me. All 5th wheel campers carry roughly 20% pin weight loaded. You will be way over 20,000 likely 22k. Pin weight will be your problem and if camper brakes fail you are in trouble. I feel very small towing mine. Hope it works for you. I will never again tow any heavy 3 axle trailer with a light duty truck.
The Junkman said
03:46 PM Jul 18, 2014
Glenn West wrote:
It has plenty of power. The Teton has great brakes. I look like an ant pulling a mountain. Also at max on pin, bed sides too high, Teton already 13' 3" so raising it out of question. Hauler bed will put over max pin and overload spring is arched downward loaded now. Air bags will raise truck so that won't work. HDT solution. With it pin no problem. no bed sides. If brakes fail on camper hdt will stop it. Your 43" Lexington will be heavier than my Teton. There is no difference in rear max weight on our trucks. I believe you will have as bad or worse issues than me. All 5th wheel campers carry roughly 20% pin weight loaded. You will be way over 20,000 likely 22k. Pin weight will be your problem and if camper brakes fail you are in trouble. I feel very small towing mine. Hope it works for you. I will never again tow any heavy 3 axle trailer with a light duty truck.
What truck where you using?
The Junkman said
03:54 PM Jul 18, 2014
Glenn West wrote:
It has plenty of power. The Teton has great brakes. I look like an ant pulling a mountain. Also at max on pin, bed sides too high, Teton already 13' 3" so raising it out of question. Hauler bed will put over max pin and overload spring is arched downward loaded now. Air bags will raise truck so that won't work. HDT solution. With it pin no problem. no bed sides. If brakes fail on camper hdt will stop it. Your 43" Lexington will be heavier than my Teton. There is no difference in rear max weight on our trucks. I believe you will have as bad or worse issues than me. All 5th wheel campers carry roughly 20% pin weight loaded. You will be way over 20,000 likely 22k. Pin weight will be your problem and if camper brakes fail you are in trouble. I feel very small towing mine. Hope it works for you. I will never again tow any heavy 3 axle trailer with a light duty truck.
You seemed happy here...with the 2012 chevy
"update. Truck pulled Teton well. I came down TX-36 and some fairly steep grades. With turbo brake engaged it would actually loose speed going down grades. Plenty of power. Beat me up rather good too. Will need a air ride hitch for sure. Did put the XPS Rib tires on. Raised Teton some which helped with leveling. Still a little nose high and rear axle tires about 7 degrees higher than others. 124 degrees vs 117 on rest. Don't believe this is problem. Am I right? Stops better than DRV did. Actually stops very fast. Love those 8,000# brakes and 3 axles. Got 8 mpg "
"Our Teton is slightly over 20,000#. We tow it with a 2012 Duramax 3500 dually and it does great. I am under gm's max towing but am close to max on rear axle. It does so well on hills that it will loose speed coming down them. Plenty of power. I would never try to talk you out of a hdt. That would be the best tow vehicle you could get. The new version of 350/3500's are greatly improved over previous units. With a hdt you just about have to commute in a Smart Car. You can haul a longer vehicle but that would be a long... truck"
Your right.. you sound like me...Except your still positive AFTER towing a while...
What happened?
-- Edited by The Junkman on Friday 18th of July 2014 04:05:59 PM
Glenn West said
04:08 PM Jul 18, 2014
Note I stated still nose high. Rear axle tires were 20 degrees hotter than other 4. Lowered hitch to lowest setting. Now have 4.5" bed rail clearance. Camper will hit bed eventually. Tires are even heat now. Looked at springs when loaded. Overload spring bent backwards, not good. The power is great. Has no problem pulling this weight uphills or holding back speed down hill. It is a towing beast. It is just too light for this much trailer and not enough rear axle carrying capacity. We are way off topic though.
The Junkman said
04:36 PM Jul 18, 2014
True..Ok terry , we stopped...lol
Sushidog said
05:03 PM Jul 18, 2014
That's OK friends. It seems to me that naturally evolving conversations should continue until resolved (or the participants are exhausted having reached an impasse). I'm not a "stay on topic" Nazi (no offense to those who are.)
We all learn from these discussions; the more animated the better. IMHO. For instance, the subject of height came up. I am not concerned with height because I will be choosing an 11ft or so high TT, which should clear all but the lowest clearances. Those choosing a fiver should probably be more concerned with height than width, as that is their limiting factor.
I did drive a 102" class A through the Smokies once, back in the early 80s. It was pretty close clearance in some spots, but I wasn't worried too much because it wasn't my rig. ;) Besides I was young and foolish then. When we age, we concern ourselves with (obsess about) what at a younger age would be an inconsequential, perhaps trivial detail. I'm sure 100" will be fine. Maybe it will dissuade me from attempting a foolish stunt, taking her down a one lane dirt mountain road, that I wouldn't survive with a 96" trailer either.
Thanks for the great advice all.
Chip
Glenn West said
05:25 PM Jul 18, 2014
Moderators will get us. It has happened. There is a lot of roads that a dually shouldn't even be on one of them. Dually's are 96". I have took my camper on these. River Road in Louisiana, following the Mississippi, is one of these. There is a nice RV campground on there that wife and I frequent when I work in New Orleans area. Cars get off the road when they meet us. It just the nature of the beast. Believe me you will be fine with a wide body and be glad you have it. God bless
Sushidog said
06:04 PM Jul 18, 2014
New Orleans is my hometown. I've been on river road many times and know exactly what you mean. Narrow roads in this area is the main reason I inquired about width. I'm sure the western states will be far less of a concern than back east. I'd love to visit the far north east but have my reservations. Though I'm sure the Central and Northern Appalachians, the Catskills, Adirondacks and Poconos are gorgeous, but with the area's Draconian gun laws, the plethora of toll roads, narrow lanes and low bridges, it's sure to discourage even the most hardy FT RVer. I think I'll brave a visit or two before I pass, but surely not frequent this otherwise idyllic (summer) area due to the aforementioned obstacles and hindrances.
Chip
Glenn West said
06:23 PM Jul 18, 2014
We like Poche' Plantation rv. That's the one I was referring to
Bobc said
08:01 PM Jul 18, 2014
Height is the scariest for me. Much easier IMO to to deal with width than height.
Terry and Jo said
01:26 AM Jul 19, 2014
Glenn,
You are right. At the moment I won't delete the posts, but we really do need to keep it on topic. So, lets get it back to dimensions and not weight.
For anyone's information, it was not you that took it off-topic. Someone else seems to be obsessed with weight.
Terry
The Junkman said
12:56 PM Jul 19, 2014
Not obsessed.. just setting it right.. I'm good. I know.. others seem confused. I wonder why that is?
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:56:41 PM
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:57:54 PM
Terry and Jo said
10:09 PM Jul 19, 2014
The Junkman wrote:
Not obsessed.. just setting it right.. I'm good. I know.. others seem confused. I wonder why that is?
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:56:41 PM
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:57:54 PM
I hope that when you actually get your 43-foot DRV that you are good on weights. Until then and when you get the truck and trailer loaded, I really think you are only guessing. You've certainly asked enough questions about your weights.
Terry
The Junkman said
10:35 PM Jul 19, 2014
Comment deleted by moderator.
TRAILERKING said
11:20 PM Jul 19, 2014
WOW..............I'm lost.
Is this about being too wide??
manycats said
09:43 PM Jul 20, 2014
Going back to the original topic. Since my DH and I are "double-wide trailer trash" and can't sell in this depressed market, we'll get a hauler and pull the side that has the kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom down the road. I'll drive ahead with the WIDE LOAD sign and we'll drop it wherever we find vacant land. All the comforts of home, my cats will be happy and we'll be the stars of the full-time RV community!!!
Sushidog said
11:40 AM Jul 21, 2014
manycats wrote:
Going back to the original topic. Since my DH and I are "double-wide trailer trash" and can't sell in this depressed market, we'll get a hauler and pull the side that has the kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom down the road. I'll drive ahead with the WIDE LOAD sign and we'll drop it wherever we find vacant land. All the comforts of home, my cats will be happy and we'll be the stars of the full-time RV community!!!
Manycats, will you return to get your other half left behind or build a wall (or put up a giant blue tarp) over the half you take with you? I think it would be sweet for the DH to drive one half and the DW the other, meet up and assemble at the campground - as long as you didn't get caught by foul weather during the trip. That would be a sight to behold! I guess mating and weather sealing the two halfs every time you moved would be a major PITA though.
Chip
Glenn West said
11:50 AM Jul 21, 2014
Now that is the definition of "too wide". lol
Bob and Lindy said
02:12 PM Jul 21, 2014
I agree with most here in that the height is usually the biggest concern. We left Minneapolis in early June to start our full timing lifestyle. Eventually we ended up in NW New York & tried the Lake Ontario Parkway. The entrance ramp said 'No trucks allowed'. Not a problem, I am now an RVer. After a few miles we came upon an exit ramp that had a sign for the oncoming overpass, 12'-2" . Our trailer is 12'-10". It was a stone arched bridge and I had missed the exit ramp but I thought there was clearance. I pulled over to the left lane at the bridge, stopped, got out to inspect, then drove underneath. I surmised the height was measured at the lowest part of he arch so we continued. Another overpass of the same design came up but that one was listed at 11'-8", that made me nervous, but continued unmolested. A mile or so later, another overpass at 11'-10". I got the rig off that road at that point. The road was a 4 lane concrete divided highway that was in the worst condition of any such road I have ever been on, heaves, cracks and missing concrete so I thought that was the reason for 'No trucks allowed' but now I know otherwise.
Possibly many on here may remember the old concrete highways that existed before the interstate system. Most I had been on, had a curb on the right that if you wandered to the right you immediately were sent to the left. Those roads I am sure were no more than 8'-9' wide lanes. Most well travelled roads today are paved with 12' lanes or more. An 8' wide or 8'-6" wide vehicle should have no trouble. Now the intimidation factor of a wide vehicle can be overwhelming to the driver though.
Drive careful, watch your surroundings and especially what is ahead.
Enjoy!
manycats said
08:44 PM Jul 21, 2014
Chip, the open side would have to be sealed before we went on the road or my pots and pans (and the cats) would be bounced out. I've got everything planned <insert goofy grin>. I didn't consider the height, though. I guess an overpass could shear the roof right off... On second thought, mobile homes are delivered over all the country... hmm.
If I were younger this idea would be considered loony, but, since RVs keep getting bigger and bigger, we may really see something like this happening and I may be considered an old eccentric or a genius. Your choice.
Though I have seen many topics on RV length I have yet to see one on RV width. I am planning on FTing in a TT, but I guess a fiver would be the same, as far as width goes. Never having towed a trailer over 8 ft (96") is 100" too wide to safely travel down narrow back roads, in road construction areas, etc.? My reason for asking is not purely academic, as I am looking at the new Sprinter wide body series TTs by Keystone. If you are unfamiliar with this line here is a brief video intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiy_7ys0ebE&list=PLKGJ3cl0tWOqnOgl9GWnVoSu9OcNRWf2y
I am looking at the 331RLS-WB model http://rvwholesalesuperstore.com/keystone/sprinter/331rls/ If selected I would move the chairs opposite the entertainment center, ditch the couch and move the dinette to the rear with a narrower table and side-by side seating so we can enjoy the view out the rear as we dine. This also gives us some space on each side of the table for additional storage, as well as added storage in the deep slide-out. I like the fact that this relatively inexpensive unit has a good insulation package, (even though we plan on moving where the weather suits our clothes) unlike many cheaper TTs, not to mention the additional square footage (that is well utilized with deeper cabinets, larger water tanks, etc.). I plan on towing with my 3/4 ton, (12,500lb tow rating) so this is at the top of the weight limit (8,000 lbs UVW/11,000 GVW) that I'm considering. At around $27k new it's affordable, especially if we can find a gently used one 2-3 years old, as we won't be needing it for another 4 years.
What do you experienced FTers think? Is 100" too wide to be practical?
Chip
-- Edited by Sushidog on Sunday 13th of July 2014 02:19:26 PM
-- Edited by Sushidog on Sunday 13th of July 2014 02:38:25 PM
Chip
102" is maximum width up here........and really no problem to get around. You'll go anywhere a semi(highway tractor) will go as long as you are comfortable to pilot it.
102 inches is the legal width on almost all roads. Most tractor trailers are 102 wide. You should not have any issues.
Thanks for the info. You guys are great! I guess the 100 inch wide Sprinter is a go then.
I ran across this website: http://rv-roadtrips.thefuntimesguide.com/2009/07/rv_size.php which made me cautious.
Some states only allow you to travel by interstate (or on your way to and from) if over 8' wide.
"How far you can stray from the interstate varies by state. Louisiana allows a 10-mile radius, while Maryland limits your freedom to 1 mile."
Since there is so much concern expressed online about being a few pounds overweight, it surprises me that there is not a similar concern about being a few inches over-width. Could an insurance company deny a claim if you were sideswiped and it could be proven that you were technically in violation of the state's width law - say you were caught 12 miles from an interstate in Louisiana, my home state? Or your mirrors exceeded 102 inches in Massachusetts or New Hampshire even though the body of your rig is in compliance and they hit an oncoming vehicle?
I don't guess there would be a problem unless involved in an accident and the insurance co. lawyers pulled out the regs in an attempt to deny or reduce their liability in a claim.
Chip
The extra 6 inches doesn't make any difference on the road…you'll still have roads that you aren't comfortable on. So if you like the extra interior room it gives you then go for it. Getting into campsites it also makes no real difference…there are some places that have length limits but in 2 years we've never been anyplace we couldn't get our wide body rig into.
On the other hand, here comes negativity.
Our fifth wheel is a 101-inches wide, and if at all possible, I avoid construction zones that I know about. I've seen some places (think Oklahoma) where a quick side gust of wind could cause an issue if one was in an area where there were concrete guardrails.
Just this last week, we visited the Palo Duro Canyon near Canyon, Texas. While there are a few campgrounds in the canyon, because of some construction in that area, the park personnel were advising great caution if going beyond the first campground and thus encountering the construction areas.
On the other hand, we've camped in Forest Service campgrounds where the roads were plenty wide enough for entry and exit. In fact, most of those roads were wide enough for two campers to meet and pass each other as long as they were watchful of where the road was not inhibited by fallen rock or trees.
So, I guess the answer to your question is, "It depends." In your first paragraph, were you referring to single lane roads, or just narrow two lane ones?
Terry
Terry and Jo, following the faulty directions of Mapquest I have unintentionally taken some scary, one-lane roads. Many of the places I like to camp in my Aliner are down winding, mountainous roads (usually in the Appalachian and Smokey mountains) which are very narrow in many places where only one vehicle can pass at a time. I don't plan on taking my home-on-wheels to these places, however, as the risk of damaging something or having an accident on these rough dirt roads is pretty high, with blind turns, low hanging limbs, trees and vegetation that encroach the sides of the road, and even edge wash-outs and drop-offs that could be disastrous if one gets over a little too far to allow a car to pass on the inside of the mountain.
I'm mainly interested in traveling down narrow two lane highways, paved secondary roads, through towns and yes narrow road construction zones. I visited Palo Duro and Caprock Canyons last year. It was rainy and some spots impassable due to the high water over the road, but there was no road construction at that time. I can imagine that backing a 35 ft, wide TT for long distances (around turns, uphill, etc.) out of a tight spot would be challenging to say the least.
I guess the best rule of thumb is slow and easy does it when approaching road construction zones. If traffic backs up, one could pull over occasionally to let it by. I plan on traveling mostly at low traffic times (at night and early morning) as much as possible, to reduce stopping and braking and to facilitate lower speed towing to imcrease my fuel mileage, stretching my meager fuel budget of around $300-$350/mo. I plan on taking a couple small, high MPG motorbikes with me when FTing (again to stretch my around town fuel budget). Maybe I could use one of these to scout out questionable roads leading to a desired boondockig area before committing my rig down an unsafe or impassable road I might soon regret. I'll name my little bikes Recon 1 and Recon 2.
Chip
Myself I can't see how there would be that much difference going from 96" to 102"
You aren't going to notice 6" in width running down the road. The real noticeable difference would be going through a narrow doorway in a shop. My building that I store my coach in had a 10' wide door and it was real close dealing with that. I since upgraded to a 12' wide..............................Way nicer.
Bernie,
The original poster asked specifically about narrow roads, and in some of those cases, 6 inches is a lot. I'm from the Oklahoma/Texas area and I can attest that there are places that are a lot more challenging with the extra 6 inches, especially if one meets another with the extra 6 inches. While the couple that SnowGypsy mentioned are from that area, they have likely experienced areas that led them to regret the wider RV.
Don't discount the experiences of others.
Terry
Didn't mean to belittle someone..........I guess it just doesn't bother me.
I have my Class 1A and experienced, so I don't feel overwhelmed like some.
Bernie
Chip
I don't think I'd let the roads dictate the kind of RV I would purchase. We've been all over this country on some pretty small roads and our rig is 102" wide by 60' long with toad. You slow down on the smaller roads. Purchase the rig you like and you will learn to handle it.
We like to stay off interstates as much as possible which puts us on to secondary roads and even though the roads are narrower the slower pace makes it a more enjoyable drive, IMHO..
All the highway/tour buses are 102" wide, except some of the older ones. They go all over the place.
Ever run those constructions zones in PA few years back ? Everyone running 60mph + side by side.. tight.. We used to go to Rausch Creek off road park, alot..
The mountain roads in Vermont / NH.. Some NY are no joke either.. twisted swirly roads.. Check out the ski areas near Stowe mt.. fun..
No worries.. it's all good.. 102" I always thought was the standard.. Anything smaller is the exception..
Well, the couple we knew noticed it and regretted it. The one thing that many people don't understand and I hear all the time is "Well, if I can do it, anyone can." That is not necessarily true. We have gotten off the beaten path and we were not seeing any tour buses there as it was difficult to keep the van and pop-up from slipping off the road and there was no side of the road. As I said "A-Liner: No boundaries" I'm thinking since we are "campers" versus RVers that is where I see this difference may be. We also take special care and precautions with ourselves and our possessions. I briefly considered a toyhauler and came across a website where the manufacturer does custom builds and these could be from very basis to whatever and they did do narrower units and prices didn't look that bad so that might be worth looking into. I was surprised to see that many manufacturers now are offering less than 8' units again.
I would think that "what is too wide?" is highly subjective. Each person, in their expereience, will find out what is "too wide". How? My gut tells me if you get white knuckles too often while driving these large vehicles because they feel too close to objects on either side, then that is by definition "too wide". Respect that feeling, but don't let it rule you and don't get arrogant either. Too much confidence has been the cause of many accidents. Practice and experience will go a long way to mitigating the white knuckle feeling as you become accustomed to it.
That being said, you may never get used to it, perhaps then this is not right for you. Each has their own comfort zone. My first trip out in a 32' class C had me somewhat tense the first day, less so the second and fairly comfortable by the third. But that is just me, your mileage may vary as they say. Will driving a dually with a 35-40 foot long and even wider trailer than the class C cause some anxiety? Probably at first(all new and different than driving a small car)... but that is something I will deal with.
Adrenalin is good for you, it aids in fighting your fear. Practice in empty parking lots, develope your comfort zone, know your limits, know the limits of the equipment and the nervous feeling of "too wide" will hopefully subside.
JMHO FWIW
Brian
Taking a class driving with such a rig would be a good idea too
-- Edited by biggaRView on Friday 18th of July 2014 11:10:06 AM
-- Edited by biggaRView on Friday 18th of July 2014 11:56:59 AM
the 43' drv is gonna give me hell the first few times I have to cut it into a spot or something.. Wide , long, and tall.. yep.. I'm a little nervous.. lol
Driving in the Peterbilt or the Coach, she is looking through the windshield from her passenger seat. She's looking towards the drivers side corner and appears that 1/2 the unit is in the other lane.
Funny you mention that, we've had many conversations along that line. I have the DW drive part of the time and we have both gained new perspectives.......so to speak! LOL
Why ?.. There like 5 people I spoke to so far pulling 43 / 44' DRV'S.. with the RAM 3500..And they have posted here and other fourms.. They are all happy.. one even sold off the the tractor trailer and bought a RAM..
Is all RAM 3500's you have a issue with? This isn't a New Horizons we are pulling, you know..
The number are what they are .. and I'm not even close to max.. as some say.. I have a built in cushion..
Btw.. What do you pull with?
Seems it goes both ways..
I think it matters how much you move and travel too. we will be moving once a month .. 4 hour transport.. If a 3500 can't manage that, Any 3500... I'm not Rv'ing.. lol..
I think alot depends on the driver too. Like someone said, if your not comfortable pulling it.. Get a bigger truck.. or rent a condo..or maybe some better not pull anything at all.( not saying you )
Was it a 13/14 RAM you couldn't pull your Teton with? or something else?
What truck where you using?
You seemed happy here...with the 2012 chevy
"update. Truck pulled Teton well. I came down TX-36 and some fairly steep grades. With turbo brake engaged it would actually loose speed going down grades. Plenty of power. Beat me up rather good too. Will need a air ride hitch for sure. Did put the XPS Rib tires on. Raised Teton some which helped with leveling. Still a little nose high and rear axle tires about 7 degrees higher than others. 124 degrees vs 117 on rest. Don't believe this is problem. Am I right? Stops better than DRV did. Actually stops very fast. Love those 8,000# brakes and 3 axles. Got 8 mpg "
"Our Teton is slightly over 20,000#. We tow it with a 2012 Duramax 3500 dually and it does great. I am under gm's max towing but am close to max on rear axle. It does so well on hills that it will loose speed coming down them. Plenty of power. I would never try to talk you out of a hdt. That would be the best tow vehicle you could get. The new version of 350/3500's are greatly improved over previous units. With a hdt you just about have to commute in a Smart Car. You can haul a longer vehicle but that would be a long... truck"
Your right.. you sound like me...Except your still positive AFTER towing a while...
What happened?
-- Edited by The Junkman on Friday 18th of July 2014 04:05:59 PM
We all learn from these discussions; the more animated the better. IMHO. For instance, the subject of height came up. I am not concerned with height because I will be choosing an 11ft or so high TT, which should clear all but the lowest clearances. Those choosing a fiver should probably be more concerned with height than width, as that is their limiting factor.
I did drive a 102" class A through the Smokies once, back in the early 80s. It was pretty close clearance in some spots, but I wasn't worried too much because it wasn't my rig. ;) Besides I was young and foolish then. When we age, we concern ourselves with (obsess about) what at a younger age would be an inconsequential, perhaps trivial detail. I'm sure 100" will be fine. Maybe it will dissuade me from attempting a foolish stunt, taking her down a one lane dirt mountain road, that I wouldn't survive with a 96" trailer either.
Thanks for the great advice all.
Chip
Chip
Glenn,
You are right. At the moment I won't delete the posts, but we really do need to keep it on topic. So, lets get it back to dimensions and not weight.
For anyone's information, it was not you that took it off-topic. Someone else seems to be obsessed with weight.
Terry
Not obsessed.. just setting it right.. I'm good. I know.. others seem confused. I wonder why that is?
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:56:41 PM
-- Edited by The Junkman on Saturday 19th of July 2014 12:57:54 PM
I hope that when you actually get your 43-foot DRV that you are good on weights. Until then and when you get the truck and trailer loaded, I really think you are only guessing. You've certainly asked enough questions about your weights.
Terry
Comment deleted by moderator.
Is this about being too wide??
Manycats, will you return to get your other half left behind or build a wall (or put up a giant blue tarp) over the half you take with you? I think it would be sweet for the DH to drive one half and the DW the other, meet up and assemble at the campground - as long as you didn't get caught by foul weather during the trip. That would be a sight to behold! I guess mating and weather sealing the two halfs every time you moved would be a major PITA though.
Chip
Possibly many on here may remember the old concrete highways that existed before the interstate system. Most I had been on, had a curb on the right that if you wandered to the right you immediately were sent to the left. Those roads I am sure were no more than 8'-9' wide lanes. Most well travelled roads today are paved with 12' lanes or more. An 8' wide or 8'-6" wide vehicle should have no trouble. Now the intimidation factor of a wide vehicle can be overwhelming to the driver though.
Drive careful, watch your surroundings and especially what is ahead.
Enjoy!
If I were younger this idea would be considered loony, but, since RVs keep getting bigger and bigger, we may really see something like this happening and I may be considered an old eccentric or a genius. Your choice.