towing CK20

[Mr_Digger]

I have a LB1914 with loader & hoe. I had a 95 GMC 3/4 ton 350 4 speed auto pickup with a 16' lowboy trailer with hideaway ramps. The backhoe always gouged the ground when loading & unloading, not to mention the stiff back from being bent over while I tie it down. It still lagged a bit so I got rid of that & found myself a 85 GMC 3500 350 4bbl. 4 speed stick with a 17' steel tilt n load deck. It's turned out to be the best truck I've ever owned. The GVW is the same.It's easier to backup & takes up less space.Mainteance costs are less than truck & trailer. The downside of a yearly inspection is outweighed by being able to throw some 16' planks on the back without worrying about them hanging out /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[KiotiJohn]

I'm not sure that I agree with your weight calculation.
The CK2O HST weighs 1993#, the loader/bucket is approx. 650# and I'm just throwing in a number for the RFM of 500# for a total of less than 2450#.
Taking into account that one is likely to want to carry other implements such as a boxblade, let's say 250-500#, a landacape rake, maybe 200#, or put a backhoe on, at about 950#, would mean that a tandem axle 7000 cap trailer should do you just fine.
I use an 18X7' tandem axle with brakes on both axles, pulled by a 1985 Chevy Suburban with overload springs/towing package. The trailer weighs 2000# so that leaves an operating weight of about 5000#, but I prefer not to go over about 4500#, and would really prefer a 3/4 ton truck as the tow vehicle.
Now, you could get by with a shorter trailer, but don't skimp on brakes. Another thing is conditions under which you will tow. You can find yourself in soft, wet soil sometimes and find that the tow vehicle could offer a little more with a good full load. As others have mentioned, hills will also make a big difference.
I'm for the 3/4 ton, gas or diesel, making sure you're set for towing with a transmission cooler, and overload springs if applicable.
John

 

[Egon]

Initial the trailer will be used for the tractor and accesories. Then one needs a pallet of concrete blocks or perhaps a few yards of gravel or ???

That's when you appreciate a good trailer with the proper ratings for the load. IE the maximum your tow truck can pull.

Egon