Forum Discussion

Aridon's avatar
Aridon
Explorer
Mar 02, 2017

Tow Vehicle Question (year recommendations)

Folks, could use some advice from people with more knowledge on the topic of tow vehicles than I have.

I know the DRW 1 tons in the relatively recent past have been upgraded considerably. If I were considering a used truck to tow a:

Grand Design Momentum 395

Momentum 395 Stats

Dry weight: 15,400
Hitch weight: 3,400 ish
GVW: 25,000


What years would I be looking at to be able to tow that with a DRW 1 ton from Dodge or Ford or Chevy?

Anything I should know about those years in particular (years to avoid, specific issues with components, new year for engine type etc)?


Thank you for time and knowledge.
  • Aridon's avatar
    Aridon
    Explorer
    Mar 04, 2017
    Thanks folks, I don't know how I screwed up the GVW on the fifth but it being 20k instead of 25k makes a huge difference in what can and can't tow it.

    Appreciate the help.
  • kennethwooster's avatar
    kennethwooster
    Explorer
    Mar 03, 2017
    If you go dually they should all handle the job. I'm only acquainted with Ford. Having owned a 6.0 6.4 and now 6.7 I definitely would only get the6.7 which is 2011 up. I have a 2014 6.7 and DRW. I love the current truck. It will handle your rig.
  • Cummins12V98's avatar
    Cummins12V98
    Explorer III
    Mar 03, 2017
    2013 or newer RAM/Cummins/Aisin/4.10's. True Medium Duty combo. 2015 or newer with factory Rear Air Ride is a GREAT option. I have that combo.

    I tow 33K combined, the truck has performed great in all weather and mountain conditions. Trans temp 165-172 no matter the conditions. Cooling easily in check even on 14 percent grades.

    9,750# on the 4 rear tires, truck rides level with the factory rear air.

  • Bionic_Man's avatar
    Bionic_Man
    Explorer
    Mar 03, 2017
    Pretty trailer. The specs say it has a 20,000 GVWR, not 25.

    I know my 2012 RAM with max tow is rated at 19,xxx.

    The challenge with buying a newer used diesel truck is you don't end up saving much cash. They just hold their value too well. You won't spend much more buying new.
  • KD4UPL's avatar
    KD4UPL
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    GM was substantially upgraded in 2011. I wouldn't go older than that.
  • agesilaus's avatar
    agesilaus
    Explorer III
    Mar 02, 2017
    Any of the three, Fords model year 2012 or later, I think Dodge upgraded theirs in 2013. Not sure about GM
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 02, 2017
    Ram 3500 DRW 6.7L Cummins, Aisin trans 4.10 rear end. That combo should be rated to 30K pounds.
  • stickdog's avatar
    stickdog
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    I'm only familiar with Ford, I unfortunately have a 6.4 which is B5 limited while most stations have up to B20 fuel depending on the calendar and govt regulation. If your buying used Ford diesel get a 6.7 2011 or later.

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