Towing while on the Interstate

[redman]

Hi Gang, just finished a trip from Port Canaveral to Virginia this past weekend... lots and lots of traffic on I-95, many camper trailers going a few miles under the speed limit (65-70mph)... tow vehicles were big pickups (Chevy 2500's and F-250's). When towing, I understand you want to drive at a "safe" speed, but the flow of the traffic was at least 7 to 8mph above the posted speed. I would say the traffic was "heavy"... a lot of 10-15 car packs traveling together with about 2-3 car lengths (or less) between them.

Here is the question: When towing your boats in traffic like I describe above, what is your "safe" speed? I'm still new to towing, I'm comfortable at 60-65 and stay in the right lane. The truck I have (2006 Tundra) has the power to move out if I have to, however... I really don't want to have a "NASCAR" experience when towing, therefore am comfortable chugging along in the slow lane. Would like your thoughts. My concern is my "safe" speed may be the cause of an accident.

Mike on C-Tour.

[416rigby]

We tow with an F-250 with Triton and I go around 63 to 65mph on the interstate. We've gone 70, but the MPG really suffers bad! Stopping is the real issue...gotta keep plenty of space between you and the car in front.

Rick

[JamesTXSD]

We try to drive for the conditions and our comfort zone. Most of the time we drive around 65 mph when towing the CD-25; the GMC diesel chugs along on cruise control without breaking a sweat. There is a reason for those passing lanes on the Interstates, so if other drivers need to get around us, they've got the lane (speed limit is 80 in west Texas). We slow down for long grades and road conditions that warrant.

Don't let traffic push you faster than you are comfortable.

Just imagine how fast you'd be going cross country if the boat wasn't trailerable.

Best wishes,
Jim B.

[Doryman]

I agree with Rick and Jim. Additionally, I will slow down more if there is no shoulder or if the lanes are narrow (for construction, etc.) Basically I try to drive the same speed as the big rigs so I can stay in the right lane and not have to pass or be passed. I'll pass the big trucks on hills, though. I drive an '02 Ram 2500 (last year of my favorite body style) with a gently-modified Cummins and a 6-speed manual transmission.

Warren

[B~C]

as mentioned, travel at what speed you'e comfortable with, within reason. In heavy trafic I hate to have folks running right alongside me, especially if I think I may need to changing lanes so I sometimes employ the drunken sailor technique. It's amazing how most people will avoid spending much time driving right next to your trailer fender if it's weaving back and forth (naturally remaining safely in your lane all the time)

[Jeff Brigner]

(naturally remaining safely in your lane all the time)
_________________
Ken

Staying in your lane takes all the fun out of it! I call it the Grandpa move. Make sure to wear the hat.

[B~C]

ya, and slouch down in the seat so you can just barely see over the steering wheel . . . .. throwing a few empty beer cans out the window really clinches it

actually, it works like a charm if I see some clod inching up on me in the mirror thinking they need to go one mph faster than I, I'll bobble the trailer around and they speed right up and get around

[thataway]

We drive at least 6,000 miles a year towing either a boat or SUV behind our 30 foot RV. We drive at 58 to 62 mph. Yes traffic passes us, but the gas mileage, stopping distance and control are better for us at these speeds. My other tow vehicle is a Ford Excrusion diesel or a one ton Dodge Van conversion--and we observe the same speed rules with these vehicles. For example California the speed limit is 55 mph if you are towing any trailer. Sure some trucks and RV's go faster--but it is safer if you are fully under control

[dave]

I have A LOT of experience pulling trailers! I have an F250 with a V10. I pull a small boat. With this combination I could drive at any speed. In the truck as in the boat, I am out to enjoy the journey. I am cognizant of the fact that this is not as manuverable as my Miata. I allow lots of space and drive at a speed I am comfortable with, usually around 65MPH. The speed of the other traffic is really irrelevant to me. Drive WELL WITHIN your level of competence, and you should be OK.

[drjohn71a]

Clear back in 1980, when I had just purchased a new travel trailer, the instructions included an excellent explanation of the safety difference between towing at 55 mph, and towing at 65-70 mph. Unfortunately, I don't remember all the neat statistics, but they were very impressive.

While I do tend to drive the motorhome much faster, when towing heavy, that slower speed gives you alot better economy, safety, and waaaay less stress.

John

[Flyer]

I have found that on interstates its best to tow between 60-65 mph.

Its better to have faster traffic pass then to stay with traffic going 70-75 because you do have more stopping distance. The cars behind you have the option of passing if they want. Sometimes I will find someone will cut in front close, to make an exit, not that much of a problem.

Also it really helps the gas mileage for us to travel in the 60-65 mph. If I travel faster we will have to make an extra gas stop and that will negate any time we have gained with the speed.

[john schuler]

I pull a 25 with a heavy F-550. I have plenty of go and a good stop. I set the
speed control at 62 in open interstate. I don't use speed control on 2 lane
roads. Go slower if white knuckes appear. I pull thru Seattle I-5 and 405
most of the time Heavy traffic. I then go a little slower and try to keep some
space in front. BE SAFE OUT THERE
john

[redman]

Thank you all for the great responses... what a great site... ask a question and get VERY informed answers.

Mike on C-Tour