Quote:
Originally Posted by jamesqf
Why? If you have 1000 lbs in the vehicle, you have to move an extra 1000 pounds. If you have it in a trailer, you have to move 1000 pounds plus the weight of the trailer. Plus you have extra air resistance, tire & bearing friction, etc
|
This is a matter of forgetting acceleration, deceleration and any handling dynamics.
A static load is easy. Driving a vehicle where the load is nearly the capacity rated is not. A trailer removes that burden.
The loaded tow vehicle is straining more than you realize (and station wagons through the 1990's could carry up to 1,200-lbs; minivans are impressive, too); the trailer places that load onto a platform designed only to carry a load, not passengers, etc. Rolling resistance is lower than many realize. A child can push around a balanced trailer when a slimp wheel is mounted.
And, with a top speed of around 58-60 mph, wind resistance is minimal
where trailer height and width are kept down.
Think of a Tahoe with Dad, Mom and the kids. The cargo area is maxed out. There's a pod on the roof. And a hitch receiver mount cargo carrier with a box. Every aspect of utility and economy would be better with a trailer (and, obviously, a smaller vehicle could have been used in the first place).
A well-sorted rig can also stop faster -- in a shorter distance -- than the solo vehicle can alone.
Trailers have their place, but don't assume you've ever
A) seen correct hitch rigging; and,
B) seen a well-matched TV and trailer.
You'd change this "obvious" opinion in a hurry.
The numbers work well in favor of a trailer in many circumstances.
Loading, hitching, etc, is a different thread topic.