Depending on the type of motorhome, towing processes may vary due to the weight or size of the motorhome. Another thing to consider when towing a motorhome is the type of damage the RV has sustained. These large vehicles require a lot of care when handling them, precautions should be taken when towing a large motorhome. There are many different classes of motorhomes, each are different in size and require different processes when towing them. With these factors considered, follow along as Blue Dog RV takes you through the proper towing techniques for broken motorhomes!
Towing a Class A Motorhome
Starting with the largest class of motorhomes, the Class A motorhome is essentially a “house on wheels,” making it the most cumbersome to tow. Class A motorhomes use the same chassis as a large truck or bus, with some as large as almost 45 feet in length! When towing a motorhome of this size, you are going to need a vehicle with enough torque and towing power to get the job done. For a class A vehicle, we recommend having your vehicle weighed on an electrical scale to ensure it is fit for the job. Most Class A motorhomes typically weigh between 16,000 to 30,000 pounds. With Class A motorhomes being very heavy, the vehicle towing the motorhome needs to be able to disperse the weight evenly. Once your vehicle has been weighed and has been determined able to tow, we recommend a towing system with an electric brake already installed, allowing for maximum security. When searching for a towing system, make sure it is compatible with both your Class A motorhome and the vehicle used for towing. For a Class A motorhome, it is best to use a flatbed trailer for towing. Using a Landoll series from Bushauler Trailer is a recommended vehicle used for towing a Class A motorhome. These double drop trailers are perfect for towing large recreational vehicles or metro buses.
Be sure to use caution when loading your Class A into the trailer, most use electronic loading technologies; however you must still ensure the wench is in place and all weight is distributed evenly before driving your towed Class A. By taking all of these tips into consideration, you should be able to effectively tow your Class A motorhome!
Towing a Class B Motorhome
Class B motorhomes are the smallest type of motorhome available, with Class C motorhomes being larger than a Class B but smaller than a Class A. Class B motorhomes have an advantage over Class A, as they can be parked typically anywhere, have better fuel economy ratings, and weigh significantly less than a Class A. If you find your Class B motorhome needs to be towed, the same procedures apply from towing a Class A. Most Class B motorhomes are built upon chassis that are based off of vans or pickup trucks, making them much easier to tow. Since these motorhomes are built upon a van chassis, it is much easier to service a Class B.
For towing, we recommend having a vehicle able to tow between 6,000 and 11,000 pounds, which is the typical Class B weight. When towing a Class B, we recommend using a removable gooseneck trailer, a lowboy trailer, or a 2 Haul trailer. Regardless of the trailer type you choose to tow with, be sure to consult with your service center on the best method for your specific trailer and make sure it is restrained properly before driving.
Towing a Class C Motorhome
Class C motorhomes are typically built on a cab or a cut-away chassis, positioned between Class A and Class B motorhomes. The typical weight of a Class C motorhome ranges between 10,000 to 12,000 pounds. These motorhomes are not as easy to maneuver as a class B and typically are more closely related to Class A since they have attached sleeping quarters. When towing a Class C. Make sure your vehicle can tow between 10,000 to 12,000 pounds and again ensure it has an electric brake system attached to your towing device. For Class B and Class C motorhomes, using a tow dolly attached to a full-size pickup should get the job done. With a tow dolly, it is crucial you have a 700 to 800 pound buffer between the front and back of the motorhome. Make sure the ball height is between 16 to 18 inches, to use maximum hauling performance.
When loading your motorhome onto the dolly, ensure it is facing forward and each tire is strapped securely. Between 40 to 50 mile intervals, check your tires to ensure they are tied down properly. Just like towing a Class A or Class B, make sure the tow dolly and motorhome are in proper alignment before driving off.
Get Quality RV Service from Blue Dog RV
Once your motorhome has been successfully attached to its towing method, bring it to a Blue Dog RV service center for maintenance! Our dedicated service technicians know the ins and outs of your recreational vehicle and will get to work as soon as possible. Whether you need general service or more intensive work done on your motorhome, Blue Dog RV has the tools necessary! Have any additional questions regarding towing your motorhome? Contact Blue Dog RV today!
