Gren71
Well-Known Member
I used to tow a similar weight TT with a v6 gladiator and used the curt echo (Bluetooth) controller for a LONG time. The v6 will pull it fine and the Bluetooth controller will work as designed and for far less $ than having the oem one installed. I always prefer the integrated controllers, but the echo worked flawlessly. The ONLY issue youll have with the v6 is steep up hills and higher elevations. It will still take you up the hill just fine, you just may have to slow down to tractor trailer speeds. IE: some steep inclines have a speed limit, and a trailer speed limit for the far right lane only. There is one hill one the route I take through PA that I used to slow down to 45mph, keep my 4 ways on, and stay in the right lane until I crested the top.
When accelerating with the v6 be mindful that its not a race...take your time accelerating and remember that its your travel, not the travel of those around you, that is your concern. Take your time to be safe and dont gun it at every stop or increase in speed limit. Even in 70mph zones I dont personally go over 65mph. I know it bothers nearly everyone around me, but my families safety and the longevity of my home on wheels is more important that the opinions of the passersby. the V6 makes its power in the higher RPM range so expect to run higher RPMs than your accustomed to.
The trailer braking will work and the truck wont careen off a cliff. Just like ANY other truck/trailer set up you should be sure to maintain a longer than normal braking distance and increase that distance with inclement weather.
A WDH is an absolute must. In fact im fairly certain that the owners manual calls for a WDH with a trailer equipped with brakes and over 2k or 3k lbs.
You may want XL or E rated tires for a heavier trailer. Theyll have less sidewall flex and will help limit the side to side movement. The movement is not necessarily a "wobble" in that the trailer isnt wagging like a tail. Its usually just the vehicle its self flexing side to side a little with passing traffic and wind sheer. I have XL tires and even inflated to 36, theyre notably better than OEM P rated tires.
Always be mindful of your ACTUAL weights. a CAT scale can be your friend to be sure your not unintentionally overloading your world. Its really easy to over pack with a trailer. Id suggest driving w/o water in the fresh tank if your able to.
Id also consider what another member suggested, getting the airlift helper bags. They are very simple to install and are a huge help with heavier loads. Honestly theyre a no brainer IMO.
Just for reference incase anyone doubts the gladiator with the same v6 engine pulling the camper is a farce.
And here is the same trailer with the current truck, the airbags helped a good bit to keep the ride nice and smooth.
When accelerating with the v6 be mindful that its not a race...take your time accelerating and remember that its your travel, not the travel of those around you, that is your concern. Take your time to be safe and dont gun it at every stop or increase in speed limit. Even in 70mph zones I dont personally go over 65mph. I know it bothers nearly everyone around me, but my families safety and the longevity of my home on wheels is more important that the opinions of the passersby. the V6 makes its power in the higher RPM range so expect to run higher RPMs than your accustomed to.
The trailer braking will work and the truck wont careen off a cliff. Just like ANY other truck/trailer set up you should be sure to maintain a longer than normal braking distance and increase that distance with inclement weather.
A WDH is an absolute must. In fact im fairly certain that the owners manual calls for a WDH with a trailer equipped with brakes and over 2k or 3k lbs.
You may want XL or E rated tires for a heavier trailer. Theyll have less sidewall flex and will help limit the side to side movement. The movement is not necessarily a "wobble" in that the trailer isnt wagging like a tail. Its usually just the vehicle its self flexing side to side a little with passing traffic and wind sheer. I have XL tires and even inflated to 36, theyre notably better than OEM P rated tires.
Always be mindful of your ACTUAL weights. a CAT scale can be your friend to be sure your not unintentionally overloading your world. Its really easy to over pack with a trailer. Id suggest driving w/o water in the fresh tank if your able to.
Id also consider what another member suggested, getting the airlift helper bags. They are very simple to install and are a huge help with heavier loads. Honestly theyre a no brainer IMO.
Just for reference incase anyone doubts the gladiator with the same v6 engine pulling the camper is a farce.
And here is the same trailer with the current truck, the airbags helped a good bit to keep the ride nice and smooth.
Last edited: