I am careful where I tow my 13 Scamp with my Subaru Forester. While i have no problem towing under normal conditions, i do not want to risk undo stress to the car going through steep grades found out here in the west. I have found for some parts of Utah and Idaho, that there are alternate methods to get to a location that could possibly avoid 6,7 or even 11 percent grades (A spot in Utah named Drive Shaft Hill is 11 percent). I have a copy of Mountain West Directory. This book breaks down highways all over western states and shows Grades and other hazards one may encounter. Often the book will narrow down the problem spot by mile marker. There is Mountain East directory as well for those unfortunate souls stuck in the east. I consult this guide during the planning of every trip. The website is: http://www.mountaindirectory.com. Well worth the time and money!
Mon, 05/18/2015 - 21:54
#1
Mountain Driving
We got our Scamp from a previous owner in Columbia SC and had to traverse the mountains go get home. Not using over drive, the Ford Escape handled the mountains with ease and comfort. We now have a transmission cooler installed and that too will go a long way to protect the tranny during towing.
<p>Doug Allen 2016 Ford F-150 2018 Lance 1575</p>
I am increasingly coming to recognize that there is quite a range of weight associated with towing a Scamp. Obviously, the 16' and the 5th weigh more than a 13'. But some units are "loaded," and others (like ours) are "bare bones." Some owners haul a lot of stuff; others travel comparatively light. My guesstimate is that the range might be as much as 1000# - 3000#. That's makes a BIG difference as to what is needed for proper towing!
Let's settle this once and for all. ALL Scamp members are to immediately purchase a used Army tank, and tow with it. Problem solved!
<p>Doug Allen 2016 Ford F-150 2018 Lance 1575</p>
Living in Las Vegas we must climb out of the valley whichever direction we go.We have had no problem with either one of our Escapes like Doug said,dont use overdrive and all goes well. Tho I do like the idea of an Army tank lol..We cant avoid climbing mountains any where we go
Launey and Earlene
@tanfam4
It's good to hear your Forester hauls with no problem. Do you have a CVT or conventional Automatic? I just bought a '15 outback with a CVT it is rated for 2700# but I was wondering how the CVT would hadle towing it's a new concept to me in an Automobile. I just ordered a 13' unfortunatly it won't be ready till October.
My 2012 has a conventional transmisision with a 2400 IBS weight limit as long as the trailer has breaks. I have a 13 model with A/C. heat, water heater, front bunks. When loaded there is only about a half inch drop to the rear and none on the front suspension.
2012 Subaru Forester
Scamp 13 front Bunk
Enigma
Since the tongue weight limit for an Outback is 200 lb. maks sure you only order one LP tank. Two tanks will push you over the 200 lb. limit.
Eddie
You can offset the weight of the extra tank by placing heavy items carried inside of the trailer behind the axle.
Bob D
2005 13' Scamp "Lil Critter"
Brenda, AZ