With their petite and streamlined design, Class B motorhomes are ideal for lightweight camping and are fuel-efficient.
You can also use your Class B RV to tow your car to a campground. Since they have a limited towing capacity, you should be cautious about your car’s weight.
So, how effective are Class B motorhomes at towing?
In this article, lets learn different things related to towing with class b motorhome.
Can Class B Motorhome Tow a Car?
Class B RVs blend the features of luxury RVs and the versatility of full-size chassis/vans. Thanks to their small sizes, it’s easier to park them and move them around different campgrounds.
Most Class B Motorhomes are capable of towing car behind them but unlike other bigger motorhomes (Class A or C) their maximum towing capacity is upto 5000 lbs only. Class B RV’s are compact and drive similar to a car or SUV and therefore people generally don’t need separate car. However, people do tow boats, ATV’s and motorcycle with them.
You can even use your residential driveway to park your Class B motorhome.
Just like Class A and Class C motorhomes, Class B motorhomes can tow vehicles of specific weights.
Class B Motorhome maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.
With your car towed behind a Class B motorhome, you can enjoy an extended family vacation or weekend gateway. You can also use the towed vehicle to run to the market when camping.
When you want to tow, its very important to pay attention to the various weight ratings specified by the manufacturer. There are multiple ratings that help you determine whether the RV can tow the car or not. Same applies to towable RV’s like travel trailer or fifth wheel as well.
Manufacturer specify the maximum ratings and that should never be exceeded. This ratings can also help you determine how much weight your motorhome can actually tow. Lets check.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
GVWR is does not specify the towing capacity of the RV. It is basically the maximum weight of your RV excluding the trailer or towed car. It includes all other weight n the RV including passengers, fluids, water, fuel, accessories and other optional equipment.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
Unlike GVWR, GCWR refers to the combined weight of both the tow vehicle and the RV. This is specified by the manufacture and should never be exceeded. This can help in determine the maximum towing capacity of your RV.
The tow capacity of your RV is nothing but he difference between the GCWR and the GVWR. For example if the GCWR of your motorhome is 12000 lbs and the GVWR is 8000 lbs then the tow limit will be 12,000 – 8000 bs = 5000 lbs
Some other ratings that you need to pay attention to includes:
- Hitch Rating or tongue weight
- Unloaded weight
- Dry weight
- Gross Axle Weight rating
- Cargo Carrying Capacity
How Much Weight Can Class B Motorhomes Tow on Average?
Motorhomes generally have a towing capacity that ranges from 0 to 15,000 pounds. This towing range dramatically varies by the type of RV, the weight of the RV, and the engine’s size. Class A and Class C RVs have a higher towing capacity when compared to Class B RVs.
Class B motorhomes can tow upto 5000 lbs based on model and make. Check how much can class c rv tow.
Here are examples of Class B motorhomes with their respective towing capacities.
| Class B RV | Towing Limit |
|---|---|
| Regency RV National Traveler | 2150 lbs |
| Storyteller Overland | 4880 lbs |
| Winnebago Revel | 5000 lbs |
| RoadTrek Zion | 2000 lbs |
| Airstream Interstate | 5000 lbs |
| Coach House Arriva | 4220 lbs |
| Coachmen Galleria | 4220 lbs |
| Pleasure-Way Plateau TS | 4220 lbs |
| American Coach Patriot | 5000 lbs |
- Regency RV National Traveler
Equipped with optional rear and side door insect screens, the Regency RV National Traveler gives campers a view of the natural surroundings.
It boasts a 7-foot, 4-inch interior that complements the open floorplan. Other amenities include the Firefly multiplex system, hardwood cabinetry, ultra-leather furniture, and solid-surface counters. The motorhome has a maximum towing capacity of 2,150 pounds.
- Storyteller Overland
The Storyteller Overland Class B motorhome features a fuel tank of 24.5 gallons, 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine, and 4×4 all-wheel drive. It also boasts a 4880 lbs towing capacity.
The motorhome comes in rugged, fun, and simple models with an uncluttered design to support many tasks. Its notable amenities include dimmable LED ceiling lights, a portable Bluetooth speaker, a GrooveLounge convertible sofa bed, and a swing-arm dinette table.
- Winnebago Revel
With a fully-equipped Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis coupled with 4WD, the Winnebago Revel is a luxurious Class B motorhome suited for small families.
The RV comes with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and active brake assist. It also features 12-volt DC power points, several cup holders, adjustable seats, and a 10.25-inch screen on a rearview/stereo monitor system. Its towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds allows you to tow a car, boat, or different toys to your travel destination.
- Roadtrek Zion
The Roadtrek Zion is a Class B motorhome derived from the RAM ProMaster 3500 chassis that offers campers everything they require for an extended stay. Its rear side features a rear lounge that can convert to a king-size sleeper, a complete entertainment center, and a comfortable dining area.
The Explorer package comes with a Voltstart charging management system, an Underhood generator, 300-watt solar panels, and EcoTrek 400 lithium power module system. Its maximum towing capacity is about 2,000 pounds.
How to tow Car Behind Class B Motorhome
Class B motorhomes come with different towing packages that allow you to tow your vehicle in different ways.
You should ensure that your car is within your RV’s maximum towing limit for it to be towable. The three main methods for towing cars behind a motorhome are as follows:
1. Four-down Towing
Also referred to as dinghy towing, flat towing, or toading, this method has zero effect on your vehicle’s gas mileage. Since you’ll be using a tow bar, the four-down towing technique is inexpensive when compared to using a flatbed and a tow dolly. You need to attach your car to the tow bar and allow it to roll behind your motorhome.
Use cables and chains to increase the stability between your motorhome and car.
You should also invest in aftermarket accessories such as a cable-operated drive shaft (for rear-wheel-drive cars), free-wheeling hubs (for front-wheel-drive vehicles), a disconnecting device, and a drive shaft. A supplemental brake lighting system will help you alert the cars behind your car when you suddenly step on the brake.
2. The Tow Dolly Technique
A tow dolly allows you to tow any item provided that it meets your motorhome’s towing capacity. This device carries your car’s front wheel while allowing the rear wheels to ride freely.
Tow dollies are ideal for smaller vehicles like smart cars, go-karts, and golf carts. Most of the way between 500 and 1500 pounds, which makes them heavier.
Dollies come with in-built brake light systems that help you alert other motorists when you are about to turn or stop. Since they may take up a lot of space, it’s important to plan adequately on the site you’ll park them.
You should also have two able-bodied people with you to help you move the tow dollies since they are heavy. Some states may mandate you to have an additional license plate for the dolly.
Maintaining the frames, wheels, and tires of your tow dolly will help keep it in shape. Always use two sets of safety chains to tie your car to the dolly securely. One of the chains should attach your vehicle to the tow dolly, while the other one should connect the dolly to your RV.
3. The Flatbed Method
An enclosed or flatbed trailer is the perfect solution for towing a fifth-wheeler or larger coach to a motorhome. You can use it to transport your dirt bikes or compatible vehicles to off-road locations.
This method supports any vehicle provided that it meets your RV’s towing capacity. The trailer also comes with a pre-installed brake or brake light system.
What You Need to Tow Car Behind Class B Motorhome?
Here are the tools and equipment needed to tow a car behind your Class B motorhome:
1. Trailer Hitch
Most motorhomes come with a hitch, while others require you to get an aftermarket one. Though there are several designs for trailer hitches, the most common ones have a ball hitch and receiver.
Since their ratings depend on the amount of towable weight, it’s crucial to refer to your car’s weight and your RV’s towing capacity when buying one.
2. Electrical Connections
Most towing techniques mandate you to connect the wiring from the trailer to your motor home. You’ll need an electrical setup for your RV to control the electric brakes, license plate light, turn signals, and brake lights from the RV.
The setup makes it safe to tow a car behind a motorhome, especially when you’re driving on a busy road. Motorhomes usually come with six or 7-pin electrical connectors on the hitch.
3. Four Down Towing Accessories
For the four-down towing technique to work, you’ll need a supplemental braking system, safety cables, and a wiring kit. You’ll also need a base plate kit installed on the toad and a tow bar.
Plan to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 to get these items depending on whether you’ll do the work by yourself or hire a professional.
4. Tow Dolly Equipment
You need safety chains and ratchet straps to tow your car behind a motorhome using the tow dolly method. Most tow dollies come with ready-to-use ramps to make loading easier.
Your RV’s parking brake should be on while loading. It’s also important to securely attach the RV to the tow dolly at the hitch ball for this technique to work.
5. Car Hauler Equipment
If you’re towing your vehicle with a car hauler, you’ll need ratchet straps to tie it down. You’ll also need a brake controller if the trailer comes with electric brakes and ramps if the trailer doesn’t have any. The car hauler may require separate licensing as well.
Best Class B Motorhomes with High Towing Capacity
Despite being the smallest of all motorhomes, Class B RVs still have sizeable sitting areas, beds, house batteries, toilets, refrigerators, and stoves, among other amenities.
They can either have a gas- or diesel-powered engine and get between 12 to 25 miles per gallon. Their lengths range between 18 to 24 feet, and their floor plans allow for different sleeping arrangements.
If you’re in the market for Class B RVs with a high towing capacity, here are the models you may consider:
- Airstream Interstate
With a 7-speed transmission and a 3.0L V6 Turbo-diesel engine, the Airstream Interstate borrows from the Mercedes Benz Sprinter 2500 van chassis. The four-wheel-drive version has a height of 9′”11″ and a length of 24’6” while the two-wheel-drive model has a height of 9’8″ and a length of 24’6″. The tank capacities include 13 gallons for the black model, 21 gallons for gray, and 27 gallons for fresh.
Its design aims to deliver top-notch efficiency, comfort, interior design, performance, and safety. The motorhome also features an Air Ride Suspension for smooth rides on any road condition. Its maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, while its towing package includes a Mercedes-Benz hitch, pre-wired brake control, and 7-pin trailer plug.
- Coach House Arriva
The Coach House Arriva is a Class B motorhome that borrows heavily from the Mercedes Benz 3500 Sprinter van. With a patented layout, the RV features a ducted air-conditioning system, twin beds that transform into a king bed, a pantry, and a microwave oven.
Other amenities include a three-way refrigerator-freezer measuring six cubic feet and a separate shower and toilet. This high-tech, downsized, and luxurious motorhome has a 4220 lbs towing capacity.
- Coachmen Galleria
Based on the 3500 Mercedes Sprinter, the Coachmen Galleria is a Class B RV that offers the utmost value, luxury, and quality. It features the quietest running turbo-diesel engines on the RV market with a torque of 325 pound-foot that still provides excellent fuel economy.
Its notable amenities include maple cabinetry, Onan generator, and Truma Combi water heater/furnace system.
With a 9’9″ height and 24’3″ length, this Class B motorhome is available in four floorplans. It also features a back-up camera, collision avoidance indicator, an electronic stability program, and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Its tow hitch comes with a 7-pin wiring connector for use on loads weighing up to 4220 pounds.
- Pleasure-Way Plateau TS
The Pleasure-Way Plateau TS is a Class B RV that boasts an extended galley area, a full-size wardrobe, a six-cubic-foot refrigerator, and a large bathroom. It comes passenger windows that provide a clear, unobstructed view of the surroundings.
The combined 6-foot countertop, roll-up screen package, and opening side door give you a serving and preparation area for enjoying the outdoors.
This RV has an exterior height of 9’8”, an interior height of 7’1”, and a length of 22’9”. Its design heavily borrows from the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 Van. It also features four seatbelts and has a towing capacity of 4220 pounds.
- American Coach Patriot
With its unmatched style and elegance complemented by superior finish, fit, and craftsmanship, the American Coach Patriot is a one-of-a-kind luxury Class B RV. Its Freedom Package offers the most environmentally friendly, reliable, and safest AC and DC power source.
Notable RV features include an engine battery charging system, a 13,500 BTU rooftop AC, dark-tinted side and rear windows, and multiple USB 12-V chargers. Its maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.
Is It Bad to Tow A Car Behind RV?
It’s a good idea to tow a car behind an RV provided its weight meets the RV’s towing capacity. Note that your vehicle won’t accumulate any miles during this process.
However, improper towing may result in transmission damages. If the towing equipment doesn’t match the towing technique, the vehicle may sway or detach from your motorhome.
You should consider the height, width, and length of the load since an oversized freight may interfere with visibility. With poor visibility, it will be difficult to change lanes, make turns or back up the towed vehicle.
Check out this tips before you tow that car behind your motorhome.
Towing trailer behind class B
Since class B Motorhomes are compact and have less sleeping capacity some people also wonder if they can tow a separate trailer behind them. Technically, it is possible to tow a small travel trailer or pop up camper behind motorhome but you need to make sure it does not exceed the weight limit.
Trailers can help you create that extra space but towing it behind your class B RV can also make the whole setup difficult to drive. The overall length will be double and you will have to be very cautious while towing. Towing a lengthy trailer is always a task that needs much more attention.
Another thing you need to be vary of is, the overall length of both motorhome and the trailer. There are limitations on the overall length and that is generally specified by DMV in each state.
Conclusion
In general, towing vehicles with manual transmission is simpler than towing newer models that feature electronic technology. Your vehicle should have a factory-engineered base plate to support towing.
It’s also important to refer to the manufacturer manual in your tow car and motorhome for more information on the towing specifications and capabilities. When in doubt, seek expert advice to avoid getting caught in dangerous or unsafe situations.
