Forum Discussion

Nevadastars's avatar
Nevadastars
Explorer
Mar 13, 2017

Fuel mileage on Dodge 5.9 Cummins while towing

We just sold our Class C and plan on getting a fiver. In fact I picked up a clean one owner 07 Ram 2500 4x4 5.9 SRW quad cab just for that reason. Our original plan was to get a fiver in the under 10-11k range and under 34ft total length.

But now with the cash we got for our C, I am toying with the idea of an early (2000-2004) diesel pusher. But after doing a quick search, I see guys report 7-8 mpg with a toad. That's what we were getting with our class C.

So, if the fuel mileage will be substantially better with the Dodge and a fiver, we will stick with our original plan. But boy, those DP's are impressive with the build quality. Thanks for any mileage numbers or advice.
  • Nevadastars's avatar
    Nevadastars
    Explorer
    Mar 13, 2017
    Thanks for the serious responses. For those that feel the need for a sarcastic response because I ask a simple question, why bother posting? Mileage is not a game changer either way, but it is a factor in our decision. We are weighing the pros and cons of each.

    We have been looking at later model fivers and honestly have been unimpressed with the build quality, so started toying with the idea of a DP in the same price range. Thanks again for the SERIOUS replies.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Mar 13, 2017
    I think for the sake of your comparison, I would use 9~10 mpg for an 07 Ram/Cummins.
    There are other years that do better but that's not germane to your comparison.
  • BarryG20's avatar
    BarryG20
    Explorer
    Mar 13, 2017
    On my 01 Dodge Ram CTD auto which was modified a bit with rv275 injectors and a programmer set on normal or towing. The truck not towing would normally get 19-20 mpg. That is hand calc'd over 350k miles of checking it almost every tank with summer fuel, winter fuel it would drop about 1-1.5mpg. Towing our 31 foot, 10k fiver it would vary between 10.5 and 13 depending on speed, road conditions and wind. Generally it was right around 12 give or take 1/2mpg

    Just got a new 2017 Ram haven't had the trailer hooked up to it for more than a mile so far so cant speak yet about the new ones mileage towing. Not towing so far it varies from 16-19mpg.
  • fj12ryder's avatar
    fj12ryder
    Explorer III
    Mar 13, 2017
    Nothing wrong with being concerned with fuel mileage. The difference between 8 mpg and 10 mpg in a year of driving 10,000 miles is over $500. That could equate to another 10 days of camping, or another 220 gallons of fuel.

    I agree about not letting fuel mileage be the sole concern, but not considering it just for the "experience" of RVing is equally one sided. Honestly we use our RV to travel, not for the "RVing experience", whatever that is. Not everyone does things the same way.

    Our 2001 Dodge dually Cummins gets between 10 and 11 mpg pulling our 15,000 lb. toyhauler. About 20 mpg unloaded. With a 40 mph tailwind it will get 14 mpg. :) Found that out in Texas last year. lol
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Mar 13, 2017
    We pull an 11,200# 5er with. 2001 5.9 with manual 5 speed, and get between 11 and 12 mpg towing.
  • downtheroad's avatar
    downtheroad
    Explorer
    Mar 13, 2017
    Senior member with lots of RVing experience asking about fuel mileage?

    Get the one you like best and works best for you. You know that both are going to get horrible "fuel mileage."
    Good fuel mileage is not part of the RV experience no matter what you drive or tow.

    Anyway, good luck with your choice.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 13, 2017
    10 on a good day.
    RVing is or should not br all about fuel economy, but about the experience. If your that concerned about 1-2 MPG maybe you should sell everything and stay home.

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