Do people "test drive" a trailer before purchasing it?

Wow -- this forum is terrific!!! Thanks so much for the thoughtful feedback.

I totally understand the concerns of sellers, but decided to ask rather than assume it wasn't done.

We do have a 7-pin connector and brake controller, are mechanically inclined and accident free. As s/w engineers we're probably over thinking the whole challenge-of-towing angle. Just don't want to plunk down a big pile of cash for something if it's possible we won't be comfortable towing it. Too bad we're not closer to AZ! That is a generous offer Bill.

We did try to find a trailer to rent, but can only find a full-height trailer in N. Ohio. If we find towing one of those challenging it won't help us decide about a TrailManor, and we're pretty set on a 2720SL.

It hadn't occurred to us to rent a U-haul/utility trailer. Thanks so much for the suggestion! Now we know to do our test driving before viewing a private-seller trailer, and have a way to practice towing (and backing up) before we buy.

Thanks again for the quick feedback and ideas!

[hjbourge]

The dealer I bought from took me out and around town towing my trailer untill he thought I felt comfortable. Of course that was my own trailer that I had bought, then we had to drive home which is a three hour drive. Did not have any trouble towing, even crossed the one way two lane bridge of course I tie up traffic as I road the middle, the rest of the trip home was fine. Backing is not a one shot deal, it takes time and every campground is different one way or another.

[FujiPedaler]

A dealer in Minnesota did let us test drive before buying, but he went with us and I would do the same. We did have to have a break controller installed before we could test drive.

It was really an eye opener for us as to how easy it drives and helped convince my wife that I wasn't totally crazy.

I would encourage each owner to consider a test drive with you because it really helps.

[TrailManorMan]

I live about an hour and a half from you, I'd help you but I'd ride along and maybe even discuss trailering in general. Mine is not for sale but a short trip on highway and town won't hurt my unit and might help you make the right decision. You would need your insurance and license and be equipped with a tow vehicle capable. From what I've read that wouldn't be an issue. Weekdays only as I camp most week ends!

Originally Posted by FujiPedaler

It was really an eye opener for us as to how easy it drives

That's encouraging :-)

Originally Posted by TrailManorMan

I live about an hour and a half from you, I'd help you but I'd ride along and maybe even discuss trailering in general. Mine is not for sale but a short trip on highway and town won't hurt my unit and might help you make the right decision. You would need your insurance and license and be equipped with a tow vehicle capable. Weekdays only as I camp most week ends!

Wow, that would be wonderful. You've got the same length we're looking for so there couldn't be a better test. It would be great to have you ride with us to answer any Qs that might arise as we're driving. And since you're not trying to sell us anything we'd get great information.

I've attached pics of the back of our '05 Tahoe to be sure we're compatible with your TM. Do you know what type of ball we need to get?

We can scan and email you copies of our drivers licenses and insurance card in advance if you'd like. Weekdays are fine for us this week and next. (The sooner the better as we'd love to buy a TM before the end of next week when our vacation ends and time becomes more scarce.)

Not sure how to proceed. Perhaps emailing us at ags at sonic dot net?

Thank you!!!

[Lesherp]

If this isn’t proof positive how great this site and its members are I don’t know what it.

[hillbillyhotel]

+1 on that
a tip of the hat to you tm man

[TrailManorMan]

Bay village I sent you a personal message, respond if you wish

[TrailManorMan]

Ill have a drawbar/ball so you need nothing for now.