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Post by macamoose on Sept 12, 2022 0:33:52 GMT -5
I am just wandering through some ideas here and trying not to buy a new camper.
I have found that it seems to be quite easy to over gross the 160QB. My empty weight says 2800 (sticker on the door of the camper) and max gross according to the spec sheet is 3500 lbs.
If I understand correctly the limiting factor is the rating of the axle which is 3500 lbs.
Can I simply switch out to a higher rated axle (and leaf springs if necessary) and increase my payload capability?
I'm not looking for anything crazy but another 3-400lbs would make a big difference in our ability to pack more supplies to get out boondocking. As she sits with a full water tank (166 lbs), a bit in the grey and black tanks (45 lbs), the battery (30 lbs), the propane tank (30 lbs), the portable waste tank (50 lbs), spare tire (30 lbs), tools (30 lbs) and the hook up/parking accessories I'm 410 lbs into the 700 allowed. That's before bedding, groceries, clothes, toiletries and the grill or spending any time in the restroom while boondocking. I'd also like to beef up the DC side of the electrical system by swapping to two group 31s in place of the single group 24.
Additionally it seems that most of the axles of higher capacity are straight axles which would give me a bit better ground clearance while staying on top of the springs rather than moving the existing drop axle under.
Thanks for any comments or advice.
-Thad
2021 KZ Sportsmen Classic 160QB
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Post by esox07 on Sept 12, 2022 7:35:06 GMT -5
I am not sure if the payload capacity is limited soley by the axle or not. But, even if you swap in a new axle, it won't change your official rating. It might actually make it safer, but the official towing capacity will not change. In the event of a mishap, that could work against you. I am not saying don't do it, but I would just be aware of that.
I assume you pack up the Tow vehicle for the trip out and back, but if not, consider traveling with more in the tow vehicle.
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Post by lynnmor on Sept 12, 2022 10:09:52 GMT -5
You need to consider the tires, wheels, brakes and springs when you make the change. Also, most of the frames are incredibly weak and may need reinforced. The sticker and registration may have the 3500 lb. limit, but I have never seen one being weighed. I replaced absolutely everything under my tandem axle trailer because of the marginal junk under there.
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Post by esox07 on Sept 12, 2022 10:43:29 GMT -5
I agree with lynnmor. These "economy" Sportsmen campers are built with cost as big consideration. They didn't go above and beyond with most of the components on these things. The driving factor in their design was cost. I am not saying they are a bad buy, they just present to a different market than a Airstream does. They are KIA class, not Lexus class. Like a lot of other people, I cannot afford a Lexus and I cannot afford an Airstream. But my 19BH has served me well over the last ten years and provided me with my money's worth in entertainment and memories.
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rvtravels
Weekender RV’er
Sportmen classic 180QB.
Posts: 83
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Post by rvtravels on Sept 14, 2022 17:49:30 GMT -5
If you touch the thing, you can kiss your warranty goodbye.
Also remember that a weight distribution setup will push weight from the tongue back to your trailer axle, meaning you really have a lower CC than stated.
Having said that, I upgraded the axle, added Sumo spring helpers, reinforced the frame and tongue, reduced weight by going with lithium batteries, dumping the dinette, any excess doors, travel with no water in the hot water tank...etc....and have managed a x country trip ok.
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Post by esox07 on Sept 14, 2022 17:58:13 GMT -5
I took mine from Wisconsin to Corpus Christy Texas and back several summers ago. It was pretty well loaded with me, my wife and daughter and all our stuff. I know the FW tank was full.
I am sure I was over the capacity, but it towed just fine for the 3500 mile trip. No sway bars or WD hitch either.
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rvtravels
Weekender RV’er
Sportmen classic 180QB.
Posts: 83
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Post by rvtravels on Sept 14, 2022 18:00:33 GMT -5
I also removed the AC and replace with a Maxx fan. As I have been travelling in cooler areas, not an issue. The AC weights about 100 pounds give or take a few.
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rvtravels
Weekender RV’er
Sportmen classic 180QB.
Posts: 83
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Post by rvtravels on Sept 14, 2022 19:52:04 GMT -5
By the way did I mention, see thread in the forum, that KZ technical support say the 3500GVWR,includes people in tbe trailer WHILE IT IS STATIONARY.
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Post by esox07 on Sept 14, 2022 20:10:34 GMT -5
So, if the 19BH is approx 2800 dry, add all the batteries and propane, water, personal gear and I am up to about 3000. That leaves about 500 lbs. The wife isn't going to be happy sleeping under the camper.
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rvtravels
Weekender RV’er
Sportmen classic 180QB.
Posts: 83
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Post by rvtravels on Sept 15, 2022 22:59:16 GMT -5
This is what I received from KZ support. Therefore in real life I don't think this is a viability product, just my opinion. " The net carrying capacity is the same whether stationary or hauling. So, yes, the weight limit does include persons sleeping in the unit overnight. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. " Thank you, Michelle- Team 2 Technical Service Advisor e: mfredenburg@kz-rv.com – o: 866-472-5460 x191 www.kz-rv.com0985 North 900 West – Shipshewana, In 46565 |
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Post by esox07 on Sept 18, 2022 8:49:28 GMT -5
I have gotten a lot of use and my money's worth out of my Sportmens Classic 19BH. But, I got a good deal on it two years old. I don't think I would ever buy one new for the price they want. I understand these things are no Air Streams or even Jaycos, but I just think too many corners are cut with them.
Also, I should add that my trailer is 11 years old now and I cannot attest to the quality of the newer ones.
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