Top_Speed1

I will definitely look into the 14_IS tranny.

I’ve watched a ton of in op videos where the rigs are starting out in 3 or even 5th gear. I thought with my 2.28 rear gearing, I would be utilizing the spectrum a bit more. But if said above is for the 14, Im all ears at the dealer or RVH lifestyles.

-KJ

Thank you all for the pics, and Steiny93 those were just what I wanted,

Beers are on me when I can get in on a HDT Rally!

On the rear gearing not worth the change, I agree if this was used/preowned. But ordering in from the factory it’s a no brainer (for me). Being that I was an O/O (owner operator) in the CDL LTL world for years, I know the importance of even 1 more mpg. If I weren’t for having this throughout my big travel plans of my upcoming retirement... we’ll that would change the desire for the 2.28 rear as well probably, but I’m thinking long term here.

thanks again guys, I can’t wait to meet up in this community. It’s a niche market that to me hits home, and as my wife says... “you just miss driving big trucks, that’s why you want one for towing our Toyhauler!”

Now to change her mindset... but, she is partially correct! Lol

7 hours ago, steiny93 said:

We started out with the HDT at one hitch length, then changed the hitch location to accommodate a 3rd quad or a smart car.  Basically, moved the hitch rearward about 30 inches.

Anyway, the maneuverability of the rig with the hitch in the extreme rear position was significantly better.

I didn't feel the attached length was much of an issue, rather the ability to turn and turn quickly was the issue.  Having the hitch behind the rear axle made turning much better.

If I could do it again, I would have kept a similar deck size (quads / smart) but then single the HDT as short at possible with the deck and hitch extending rearward.  Keeping the config in a way that one could do a 90 degree turn with the largest required payload on the deck.  Having the pin rear of the axle and a short wheelbase will serve you well in tight spaces.

So basically, start with the shortest possible wheelbase then drop on the minimum deck you need with the hitch behind it; what does that look like as a starting point?

I saw your rig setup, very nice. So I was first looking into a 740, lower height cab. When I was in the hauling business, this was popular with tanker guys. But, I see you 5er is only like (maybe) 1ft taller? Not sure if you 5th is around the 13ft A/C height. If so, I may put the shorter 740 back on my list, as those lower profile guys always dunked me in the mpg game.

Don’t wanna bother you, but any pics or links to your rig hooked up, level side view preferred. Thank you in advance!

All great info, thanks guys. I really appreciate the input from you HDTers. I will plan put with cardboard, great idea. I also will scrub the smart car mirror removal idea, I didn’t know they folded, that will be a halfway but acceptable method.

I will hold off until I get to a Rally. I have to get Debbie onboard with all this anyways, I figure other wives may shed some light on it, at least maybe influence her that it is the safer way to haul around our big 5ers. One benefit that I pushed was the fact that she could have a portapotty. She said oh yeah, this truck has a bathroom? Lol.

We’ve had several cross country episodes where she had to pee and while I was on an Interstate w no rest or truck stops in the near gps insight (she has the iExit app on her iPhone). So this is my wild card as she doesn’t match up well with me break wise (she calls me a camel!) lol.

KJ

Youtube.com/WhereTwoNext?

14 hours ago, noteven said:

Hi KJ - 

Does your “mission profile” require the Big Sleeper?

 

I’m 6-4, Debbie however is only 5-3. And,  If we use the truck as an individual bobtail style “camper” on some (very few) but select outings, I figure the additional 7” will come in handy. This is the 860 at 77” and the 760 at 70” comparison of course.

12 hours ago, mr. cob said:

Howdy KJ,

I understand your wanting to be short but unless you plan on boondocking on two track forest service roads or putting your rig into very old State forest campsites in "my opinion" your over thinking this. 

I also tow a 44' 10" trailer and I do need a few acres ( not 40 ) to turn my rig around as my overall lenght is 72 feet but I have been able to get into many spots that leave the spectators scratching their heads wondering how the heck did he do that.  The shorter your tractor the chopper the ride, having had a Freightliner that was singled and shortened mid, "I" much prefer the ride of the tandem stock lenght Pete, also the longer truck is much less affected by wind and rides much smoother.  Just my experience that of others will vary.

Dave

Thanks Dave.

You’re probably correct on a few things here, like yeah, I’m probably over thinking. I just wanna be so careful as this is going to be a one and done purchase. I’m getting close to retirement, and buying new, it should be my last hauler. I told my better half, you may be getting a new Luxe 44FL someday (her dream living machine), but this hauler will be our one and only. Would not be the statement of course if I did by chance go used.

1 hour ago, Star Dreamer said:

As far as the side deflectors being hinged or pinned, it will most likely not work as the newer smart cars turned sideways are 106" and the dimensions from deflector to deflector will be closer to 102"  and you would need to allow clearance for cab and car bounce. On our Freightliner Century Mid Roof, I ended up removing our side deflectors so I could get the car closer to the back of the cab. 

Also be sure to lay out the truck bed corners to allow the trailer to pivot at least 45 degrees with the straight down pin box. You may need to cut the corners at an angle to get enough clearance.

I suggest drawing it all out to scale to make you have tried to cover all items and to see if you math holds up.

Those fairings being hinged... I kind of was doing my best NASA prototype day dreaming. I understand about the air ride cab and the box shifting. Still has my interest side of me perked up.

I took mechanical drawing in school. Not sure that in almost 40 years later I could scale out in precision of what is needed. I could get close I guess to at least get it sent to my nephew who is an engineer in this field. Hmmm

At least nobody called me nugging futts!

I’m in the market and planning my HDT. I would like a Volvo 860, which is already quite long with the 77” sleeper. My below desired specs...

Single drive, most likely mid mount loca. Favoring RVH Lifestyles for the new truck order plus deluxe bed, turnkey.

Smart Car load, keeping it forward as much as possible. Maybe passenger side mirror removal, and/or trailer deflector hinged and pinned. Would I be the first this crazy idea?

Hitch forward as much possible, noting the (2.28 desired) gearbox’s below loca.

Trailer pin box as straight drop, this should get the back of the hauler box closer the the 5er. Turning/pivoting space allocated of course.

———————————————

So what I’m trying to do is skimp as much as possible on my overall length. My RV is already 44’-10” and in campground maneuvering or just taking up “space”, I’d like the smallest footprint I can get. With this size rig, that’s probably an oxymoron statement. Of course me being a CDL guy, I understand the like of the needed 90 degree (jackknife so to say), I also know and have seen tons of wasted space on a lot of rigs, primarily between the hauler box’s back end, and the non-goosed front leading edge of the 5er.

Am i crazy to try to plan on compacting as much as possible? This is typical me, maybe I’m just an over planner too. Lol

/?/
Yes, I will be contacting Jack Mayer, but knowledge and thoughts about this have been kinda driving me nuts.

KJ & Debbie

Youtube.com/WhereTwoNext?

On 4/2/2021 at 12:14 AM, Danandfreda said:

I think there may have been some cancellations try calling the campground and check again 

Will do, thanks.

18 hours ago, Danandfreda said:

If you can make it to the east coast rally we have a 2021 kenworth t680 you could see or test drive. 

I can definitely make it with most importantly my better half (Debbie), but the caveat is that the campground is being sold out. I don’t like the idea of off location stay, then commute back n forth. Feel this sorta defeats the purpose, as most likely not only will we be “outsiders looking in” but also the lack of any bonding with possible new friends.

We are currently associated with several of these different groups, mostly with our 2 different branded Motorcycle groups. We know how important being onsite will be. For that reason, I will shoot for next year....

or, not sure if there is a cancellation list? That would be our only option for this years ECR.

8 hours ago, jenandjon said:

If you are still shopping I would suggest you look at a Kenworth 660 or 880 with the X 15 cummins and Allison. Its like driving a pickup. I cannot describe how much I love mine. I have driven an auto shift and this Allison blows them away. No comparison.

Hmmm. Interesting. Being a CDL guy here for many years. I always thought this to be true for the Volvo’s as the best overall driving truck. My company always spec’d me into Frieghtliners, but that didn’t mean that’s all I drove.

I know Kenny’s have their fans for sure, and, at truck stops I’ve heard banter good and bad on all of them including the V’s. But with that said, the V’s have always won out on the ease of drive including quietness combined with smoothness. For that reason, my focus was/is with the V’s, primarily the new VNL 860.

But I do respect all the other makes n models, they all have a few pluses/options/features that I would like to add to my build, but this is the EXACT same way both Debbie and I feel about shopping the RV’s. We want something from all of them into our one big package. Yeah, I’m dreaming for sure.

So.... The New Kenworths are not totally off my radar, I guess a test drive would be in order to see if it could make my hotlist.

TY for the Kenny idea.

27 minutes ago, Alie&Jim's Carrilite said:

RVH Lifetstyles would be a place to look and Jack Mayer the guy to talk to about ordering a truck.  They have a build sheet that they use that adds all the RV friendly options and removes "Trucker" features.

 

Oh yeah, Jack and RVH Lifestyles are definitely on my radar. I’ve seen vids where they talk about being competitive with ordering in Volvo trucks, and titled as RV and w the correct hookups, even w the super single in the mid position from factory. 😎

Hey Rick,

Listed under 2022 Volvo for the D13TC

405 w/ 1750 ft/#

425  w/ 1750 ft/#

455 w/ 1860 ft/#

Maybe I’m reading things wrong, wouldn’t be the first time lol.

In doing tons of video reviews w commercial hauls (with these newly revised eco engines), and hauling typical just under CGVW 80K loads, some drivers are experiencing over 10mpg. Some LTL guys have 12+mpg.
 

I’d be happy at 10 and is my modest goal. If I get more with my measly 21K 5th wheel, just added gravy, and then... happy will turn to ecstatic.
 

Thanks to all who messaged me!

My current thoughts are:

VNL 860

Loaded w Touring Int trim

425hp iShift

Super Single Rear, mid mount. Ordered in from Volvo along with some other RV amenities.

Overhead exhaust (maybe twins, just cuz I love the look). One of my pet peeves when at a campground with dirt or gravel roads, are the rigs that come in and blow dust up everywhere, and on their own tow rigs more than anything. Also Quartsite vehicle entries are horrible with the brush burners. Bad all around, I’ll just get a custom drom box built, prob aluminum. So yes, I absolutely hate brush burners, especially now that I invest in DEF, why now use some it’s advantages!

‘Most importantly!....

2.28 gearing. With these new compound turbo’s, peek torque is now at only 900 RPMs. And, since we are not nearly at a heavy tow load in comparisons, I should still be well over power spec’ d. Mileage is an important factor, especially when fuel prices rise, like now. I’m still considering the 455hp, but what I’ve read and heard, the 425 for our pull range is more than enough even in the Rockies. One of the reasons to go brand new is to take advantage of these new fuel improvements.

Still learning, still shopping

On 3/26/2021 at 9:59 PM, Larry Burkett said:

Just remember one thing when ordering your truck, if you have a flat with dual tires, you can limp to a safe spot, with Super Singles, you're done instantly.

Yepper, just like the steers!

3 hours ago, Chad Heiser said:

Definitely get to one of the rallies.  You didn’t say where you are located, but the three rallies are in Tennessee (ECR), Kansas (National) and Idaho (WCR).  The WCR campground is also full for the upcoming June rally, but you could come in and stay in a hotel as a possibility.  We always have at least one couple do that every year.  I run the WCR if you want to contact me to get more information about the rally experience.  I try to keep a big social component to the rally to allow people to get to know one another and share experiences 

Hey Chad, thanks for this info. Yes I gotta get in on a rally, even if I show up with my F350, but I’ll be more educated and even more importantly have my wife onboard with the HDT transformation.

Our home base is smack dab in the middle of NY State, called the Finger Lakes.

4 hours ago, rickeieio said:

If you're ordering a new truck, just get it as a single axle.  Why spend the money to mess around with it when you can order it already done, likely for much less $$?  Plus, you'll have a drive that's built for the job.

If we were full time, we'd be going down the same path as you.

Definitely, and if I go with RVH Lifestyles, they’ll order it in as single, and I can have options on the drives as well, like super singles. It can be titled as an RV also at that order time. So yep, a few benefits going brand new.

We’re not full timers yet either. Not retired quite yet, but ever since Covid and I can work remotely, we’ve snowbirded this past winter.

On the pricing and my (probably crazy) realistic thoughts on why going new makes sense for us...

I can land the Volvo VNL 740 with all top packages incl Touring Trim for ~150K.

Conversion from RVH Lifesyles ~35K (Premier Box, Single Axle- Mid Mount Position

Smart Car (used since they don't import new ones anymore) 2018ish ~10K

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~200K

Now for that, I have a lifetime truck to haul/tow whatever 5er I morph into in the retirement years. It will more than nicely accommodate my current ToyHauler. Being new from the get go, I know what it's been through like no pot holes as deep as a revine, no leasing of fleet abuse (remember I am a CDL guy too!). I think when they are your own, you take care of them like they are your own. When not? Yikes, I've seen horrendous things out in the commercial field.

So, comfort and the feeling I will have everytime I go and hook that bad boy up?... priceless.

Knowing I'm going across the entire Country and then ride up the PCH from LaJolla (friends there) to Seattle?... priceless!

With a new rig and a million mile menu on it's plate, stress and the overall worrying factor will be pretty much negated. Always have to on your toes of course, just with a lot less to worry about. Retirement years are now in smaller single digits too, so why not do it sooner than later I figure. Like I'll never wear it out in my lifetime, but I might as well give it a try! ;)

Thanks Stardreamer and Moresmoke!

You confirming this with what I already was thinking is reassuring to me. Sometimes I get crazy idea's, but hopefully this is not one of them.

Porta-potty may not be the most "plushest" of selling points, but I think I can work with it on her.

I tried to get in on the HDT East Coast Rally in TN., but it's sold out (camping wise). So my final selling point (to her) will I guess have to wait.

Hey guys,

Probably a popular story among us already hauling around a pretty big 5er RV. So outline for us, we currently tow our 2018 XLR model 422AMP (44’-10”). I ordered in a 2017 F350 Platinum. Very comfortable truck for my 6-4 frame, my wifey is small and can adapt to pretty much anything. BUT... she hates the look of the truck I’ve pre-picked out; 2022 Volvo VNL 740. Considering RVH Lifestyles in Kansas for the conversion.

So... I’ve heeded advice and want to attend a HDT Rally/event before I do anything drastic. Kinda like how I went out and ordered both the truck and RV within 6 Mos. Of each other and having my wifey on my side with those purchases. This one, she’s just not onboard. She’s ridden before with me (I have a CDL) but that was my Frieghtliner, not a Volvo, and I’ve test drove a 2020 VNL (780) and it was quiet and a pure joy to drive. Can’t convince her however, so I’m thinking maybe, just maybe hearing testaments for other pillions may turn her around.

If I’m way off here, let me know. I’m focusing on a new ‘22 Volvo VNL 740 (a little lower profile than my commercial trucks I drove prior). Our Toyhauler is 21K GVW, but I want to plan for retirement years, so maybe a Luxe TH down the road. With that said, I think the D13TC should suffice nicely. I will want the tallest (lowest number) gear ratio possible, I know all to well that these engines like the low RPM torque production, and, our RV’s are light in comparison to the normal usages these units are built for.

‘Touring trim may help convince her too, also if I can get some sort of bathroom slash port a potty, that would be a great selling point for me. One of her only complaints while traveling w me, I guess I’m like a camel of sorts. Lol

let me know on anything I’m off base on here. Thanks guys!

KJ

18 minutes ago, rickeieio said:

Have you been to Iron Horse with that 5er?  Looks pretty tight.

Here's a park near the rally site.  We've stayed there:  https://www.springlakervtn.com/

C'mon down.  We'll have a couple bikes with us.

We’ve stayed at the IHML 3 times prior, RV slot #4. Yes, it’s tight with a 45fter, but doable.

I’m quite serious about the HDT and conversions, so I’d probably wanna camp close by, I’ll checkout your suggestion, and thank you very much!

KJ

2 hours ago, rickeieio said:

There are a couple of other campgrounds nearby.  It'd be worth a shot.

Could make sense, the following week we are at the Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge & Campground in Robbinsville NC, not to far from your venue.

Hi All! (I went to eastcoasthdtrally.com to seek info and registration)

We have a 45' 5er, pull with a '17 F350. BUT, seeing that I have a CDL and have always been a Volvo fan, I fully know and understand the safety aspects of a HDT, and, want to progress into this as our puller.

Late to the party I guess, we sought campground ressies  ...but!, it's a no go. I've watched a bunch of YT Video's and most all say to hit up a rally and learn. So that is what I shall do... next time!

You guys have a blast!

KJ & Debbie

Youtube.com/WhereTwoNext