reducing weight - multiple batteries and propane tanks

[joeboh]

Hello, I'm a new owner of a used 2006 - TM 2619. The previous owner had two batteries and two propane tanks on the front of the TM. I weighed a full propane tank at about 32lbs and a battery at 45lbs.

For an overnight trip with an electric hookup, will I need more than one battery or propane tank? I'm thinking of leaving the extra tank and battery at home.

I haven't weighed the tongue, but would the reduction of 77lbs of weight from the extra battery and propane tank affect the stability of the trailer? I recall that the tongue weight should be at least 10-15% weight of the trailer. I'd like to check at the scales but wanted some input ahead of that. I seem to recall that any weight behind the rear axle should be added to the tongue weight. My WDH is 70lbs. With the 77lbs of the battery and propane tank, the tongue would need to weight 150lb+ without anything on it. It seems to pass a sniff test for a drive to the scales.

I'll be towing with a 2017 Honda Odyssey. The dry weight including accessories is ~2920-2980lb according to the sticker inside the cabinet. I forget the exact amount and it's at a storage facility at the moment. My receiver is rated for 675lbs

[rvcycleguy]

First question first... 2 batteries? Both 12v? If so, then leave one at home. If they are 6v, then they are tied together and need it for 12v.

Regarding propane tank, possibly leave it at home but some systems with 2 hoses and the quick changeover lever may require a tank to be fitted to the hose. Meaning no tank may allow propane to leak from the hand twist threaded fitting.

With your math, a TM that weighs 2900lbs, and the 10-15% tongue weight suggests you have 300 to 450lbs of tongue weight. That sticker should indicate dry weight. Does not include propane, battery, water, awing, etc.

Any weight you remove will ease the tongue weight. From the info you provide, I don't see any issue with stability either way, as long as the WDH is set properly. I'd check your vehicles gross combined weight ratio. Which is what the tow vehicle can accommodate for passengers, gear, plus TM and gear, total.

[ShrimpBurrito]

FWIW, a fully-loaded 2720, which is just a bit (100-200 pounds?) heavier than a 2619, is about 4,000 lbs fully loaded for camping. That's full water tank (20 gallon), charged toilet, full water heater (that's about 250 lbs of water all together), full propane, 2 batteries, clothing, gear, food, pots/pans/dishes/utensils, etc.

The dry weight is exactly that -- it's the bottom basement number, but weights in reality are much more. You'd need to weigh yours on a scale, after packing for a trip, for the real number.

Dave

[joeboh]

Yes, both 12v. Thanks for the reply. I have an empty tank that I can put on the mount which may help with leakage as well as balance out the strut that goes across both tanks to secure them in place.

[tentcamper]

The propane tank hold down bracket does not work well with one tank. Plus, im not sure I would want to have an unconnected propane screw on fitting exposed to the elements and road dirt. Maybe just keep one empty that will reduce the weight by 20 lbs?