Okay, not sure if this is the right place to post this but this is The burning question for me. How hard is it, really, to drive a Class C with a toad?
I've driven an ambulance, but my biggest rig was considerably shorter than a MH w/tow vehicle. Tell me I can do it, lol.....I need to hear these words!
NorCal Dan said
08:41 PM Sep 22, 2010
You can do it. I drove a 30' Jamboree for 2 years and had no issues. Recommend an aux braking system for the toad to help with stopping.
Remi said
09:19 PM Sep 22, 2010
If you ever had to drive any of the older ambulances, you know they're top heavy and don't corner pour merde. Newer C's handle better than the 2 ambulances I have driven and any box truck (u-haul style) I ever drove. A crazy carnie threw me into the driver's seat of a 24' 1962 box truck when I was 14. If I can do it, so can you. No worries :)
Postalpair said
09:30 PM Sep 22, 2010
Think positive.....or take a driving course. I drive our 40ft 5th wheel all the time. I agree with NorCal Dan though....get yourself an aux. braking system on that toad. Always go with the side of safety. Always trust your instincts.....be safe and enjoy
GENECOP said
09:00 AM Sep 23, 2010
The main thing to remember is Take Your Time.....nice and easy, don't let tail gaiters or impatient people rattle you. If you can always keep your cool, you will be fine, the learning curve is quick, G
The Bear II said
09:09 AM Sep 23, 2010
Once you have your RV and toad-
Spend some time in an empty parking lot getting a feel for the MH without the toad and then with the toad. Watch how the toad follws the MH around tight corners. Do you need to swing wide or does the toad follow the same path as the MH (tracks).
Practice hitching and unhitching the toad.
Also try a couple of panic stops to see how everything reacts.
After a few trips driving the Class C will become second nature to you.
earthmommy said
09:15 AM Sep 23, 2010
Thanks everyone!
Old Snipe said
11:16 AM Sep 23, 2010
And remember to think in three dimensions: Length, width and height. Low bridges, tilting highway signs and tree limbs have a way of trying to jump out and grab you.
Don't forget "Tail Swing" either, when you turn in one direction, your MH tail swings out in the other direction.
You'll do just fine, slow and easy is great advice.
Best Regards!
jlgothard said
12:37 PM Sep 23, 2010
A secondary braking system is actually mandatory in nearly every state. There's a towing laws guide here which may help you determine what you need. There are numerous secondary braking systems available including Brakemaster and Air Force One.
I assume that you can flat tow (4 wheels down) your TOAD - you might want to check as this is critical if you want your TOAD to be driveable when you reach your destination:) Alternatives would be a dolly or a transmission modification so that you can flat tow.
Oh yes a couple more things:
DON'T REVERSE with a TOAD attached
Remember how tall and wide your vehicle is or this might happen (short You Tube Vid)
That's probably the worst that could happen to you :) Apologies in advance if you knew all this.
I've driven an ambulance, but my biggest rig was considerably shorter than a MH w/tow vehicle. Tell me I can do it, lol.....I need to hear these words!
Always go with the side of safety.
Always trust your instincts.....be safe and enjoy
I assume that you can flat tow (4 wheels down) your TOAD - you might want to check as this is critical if you want your TOAD to be driveable when you reach your destination:) Alternatives would be a dolly or a transmission modification so that you can flat tow.
Oh yes a couple more things:
DON'T REVERSE with a TOAD attached
Remember how tall and wide your vehicle is or this might happen (short You Tube Vid)
That's probably the worst that could happen to you :) Apologies in advance if you knew all this.
Julian
National RVing Examiner