Hi All, hoping for some advice from the brains trust!
I am heading off on a 7 month half lap of Aus with my wife and kids (6 and 8) in December. I think we will cover around 20,000 to 30,000kms over the trip, mostly sealed driving but possibly some dirt tracks and beach tracks (with the van unhitched!). We have a 2010 18.57-6 Expanda (Ball weight 164kg, ATM ~2500kg), and i am on the look out for a Hilux or D-MAX (0 - 5 years old, sub 100,000kms). I've previously had a Jayco Eagle, and i am a bit clueless about what i need to manage the weight distribution (sag) and suspension on the tow vehicle.
I have a weight distribution hitch which came with the van. I've tested it on my current vehicle, and it brings the sag back to close to level. I am not sure if this will be sufficient, or whether i need to fork out for air bags and/or a lift kit on the rear. I will have another 200 - 300kg in the tray of the ute, but nothing excessive as i'm keeping a keen eye on my weights (which i am well under). Any suggestions or recommendations?
I am heading off on a 7 month half lap of Aus with my wife and kids (6 and 8) in December. I think we will cover around 20,000 to 30,000kms over the trip, mostly sealed driving but possibly some dirt tracks and beach tracks (with the van unhitched!). We have a 2010 18.57-6 Expanda (Ball weight 164kg, ATM ~2500kg), and i am on the look out for a Hilux or D-MAX (0 - 5 years old, sub 100,000kms). I've previously had a Jayco Eagle, and i am a bit clueless about what i need to manage the weight distribution (sag) and suspension on the tow vehicle.
I have a weight distribution hitch which came with the van. I've tested it on my current vehicle, and it brings the sag back to close to level. I am not sure if this will be sufficient, or whether i need to fork out for air bags and/or a lift kit on the rear. I will have another 200 - 300kg in the tray of the ute, but nothing excessive as i'm keeping a keen eye on my weights (which i am well under). Any suggestions or recommendations?