How do I increase towing performance?

Yeah, that's the gist of payload. Basically, load the truck up as you'd drive it (full tank of fuel with all gear/passengers you'd have when you tow) and go weight it. Subtract that from the GVWR on your door jamb. Try to keep a comfortable buffer from maxing if you can. Lighter is always going to be less wear and easier to tow.

 

I'm glad to answer any questions about the Max.

I didn't really want to get a camper when I got this - but it was a better option than an out-of-town apartment. Turns out, it's a really nice camper, and I'm glad to have it.

It's parked up at the lake at the moment...

 

Yeah, I feel your pain man, selling is the last thing I want to do. If I were to trade in I would get a Tundra but I really want to keep my Tacoma for as long as I can.

 

Ok cool I think I can leave a good buffer with the little guy trailers but I need to weigh my truck to make sure the weight is where I think it is.

 

Thanks I appreciate the help from all of y'all. You guys have been super helpful.

is there anything you don't like about the Little guy max? It looks good and pretty cozy and sounds easy enough to tow.

 

Here's mine, 3500 lbs, easy to tow with a tacoma

 

It truly seems like your mind is already made up, but if I had a 60kish budget to blow, I'd be finding a 30k camper and 30k 1/2 ton, AND keep the tacoma at home. Who says you can't have ALL the fun things?

 

Bigger truck or smaller trailer. Maybe both.

 

100% agree and know where you were coming from. Shameless plug for my next truck on bring a trailer if they accept the listing.

 

Yeah I would but I don't own my own house yet I'd rather go with a smaller trailer than a bigger truck. I know it's not the smartest thing to do but I just really like driving my tacoma.

 

Build quality is good, better than a lot. However, there were some issues with the 2020,2021,2022 models (not sure about 2023). A lot of problems were due to the supply chain. They use Dometic appliances - as do all campers - which in my opinion suck. But there is no alternative, so I deal with them. At least parts are available...

The interior is nice - solid hardwood. The factory colors (cushions, window trim) was very bland - we've added color with new window trim and cushions, making it much warmer inside. Also, plan for a new mattress.

All the windows are great! During the day, with the shades up, it feels like you are outside when inside. The windows make a huge difference - make a small camper seem big!

Go on YouTube, search Little Guy Max - you will find a lot of info there.

 

does it get above 80 degrees inside during the day? Or should i invest in an upgraded AC unit since I'm in texas and summer sucks here. I don't want to cook the cats while I'm at work.

 

Yes, it can get hot in there.

There is an upgraded AC that fits nicely - thinking about doing that to mine. I forget the name of unit - I'll have to look for it for you.

 

I tow my Airstream Basecamp 16X with GVWR of 3,500 lbs and I wouldn't go much heavier if I planned on going up any mountain passes.

 

These are very nice trailers for sure - but how soon does OP need one? You have to consider availability too! Good luck. I tow a micro minnie 2108 around 4100 dry and it can do it but hills are a pain. And I don’t live out of it. Would your driving distances be short or cross country type of traveling? That will make a big difference too. I really like having the smaller truck for in town.

 

I thought it was 1200, but it doesn't matter. He was something like 125%-150% capacity, right? I like the example because there's lots of the "well I haven't had any problems being stupid" comments and that truck illustrates it really well. Lots of miles "no problems at all" and then WHAM! the bill for stupid comes due. Do I think you'll break any modern truck like that being a little over payload on occasion? Not at all. Do I think you should load up a Tacoma to where you're 500 pounds over payload? Not at all.

Dude, forget smart. If it's what you want to do and it can be done safely, then do it. Screw the haters who think you have to have the stereotypical house with a yard and a mile long honey do list to be happy. Enjoy the freedom that comes from less material obsession. I wish I had felt this way 20 years ago.

 

Job starts next tuesday. I think I can get away with staying in a pet friendly hotel for my first hitch but ideally I need this in the next week or more realistically in the next 4 weeks.