2004 trail manor 3023

08-13-2005, 05:52 PM

We are considering trading in our 2003 Mako Gulfstream 30ft travel trailer for a tm. The Mako is very heavy to tow and cumbersome especially in traffic. We are looking at a 2004 3023 that appears to never have even been used (I'm sure it has once or twice) - anyway just the thought of the ease of towability - I am thinking we will be apt to want to camp more often - plus with the gas prices, the tm makes perfect sense. What are your thoughts?

**fcatwo** · 08-13-2005, 08:05 PM

And many of us downsized like you are planning to do. But you need to read up on the TM's toilet/bathroom and fridge differences that may take some getting used too. It's all here and easy to find with a search.

08-14-2005, 07:07 AM

Yes, the fridge is alot smaller and of course the bathroom is too, and have taken into consideration the recirculating toilet. Those are the negatives - We have been weighing out the pros and cons

Pros - Easier to tow - less gas expense, safer to tow and will probably use it more because of the ease and safety. More kitchen counter space than the mako

cons - not as large living area, less storage cabinets, and of course the bathroom issue.

All in all though I think we have talked ourselves out of just getting away on an overnight escape due to the pain of towing the gulfstream. We love to go to Kings Dominion in Doswell and sometimes just get a motel because of the pain of towing. Or a overnighter to Ocracoke.

So with the simplicity of towing the tm - hopefully we will get to play a litte more

looking at a 2004 tm 3023
have 2003 mako gulfstream tr29bh
2005 Dogde Ram 250 Diesel turbo cummins

**fcatwo** · 08-14-2005, 01:27 PM

Sounds like it will work for you. Towing a TM is FAR-R-R less stressful than the big ones -- and your Dodge diesel should get near-solo fuel economy.

dugb527 · 08-15-2005, 08:20 AM

I just returned from Alaska where I towed a 2004 3023 with a Nissan Titan. It was extremely easy relative to a big trailer and I my mileage was reduced by only one mile per gallon or so. Traveled nearly 10,000 miles and had other issues but the towing was a breeze.

08-15-2005, 08:58 AM

I get 18 mpg with my CTD. You will love it. Dave