Towing Issues: trailer, champ car race, air suspension kit

Question
I have a 1987 GMC 2500 Van, that I use to tow my race car on a flat trailer. I have installed an air suspension kit on the rear axle to keep the rear end up. We need to tow an enclosed trailer with the car this ummer to a Champ Car race where we are in a support race. Will the van be up to it?

I am lookiing at about a 20 foot trailer, and the car weighs about 2100 pounds.

Thanks,

B  

Answer
Assuming the van is in good condition and the tires are properly rated, you will probably be pulling about 4000 to 5000 pounds.  The trailer may weigh more than the car depending on how it is built.

A 2500 van should do just fine, but I would recommend that you  get a load equalizing hitch.  Air bags are great for levelling  the van when it is pretty much empty or when you have stuff inside, but for hitch weight and keeping the trailer from swaying, a load equalizing hitch is the best solution.

I am always amazed that people will spend thousands on tow vehicles, trailers and of course the cars and other stuff inside the trailer, and not spend $300 or $400 on a quality hitch.

The load equalizing hitch puts the weight on the ball and spreads it through the frame so that it rests equally (when setup right) on both the front and rear axles.  Air bags can rupture, and they put an undue stress on the axle and frame if you try to make up for a heavy hitch load.

if your trailer weighs 5000 pounds you should have 500 on the ball.  (10% or close to that).  With the lever arm of the weight all at the very back of the vehicle, it is hard for extra springs or air bags to make up for that, and again, it does nothing to stabilize the load.

Also these hitches last a lifetime.  I have the first hitch setup my dad bought almost 50 years ago.  Keep them lubed and tight and they are a great investment.

Google Reese and Draw Tite hitches.

Don