Forum Discussion

meleavingsoon's avatar
Feb 14, 2017

What size truck will I need to tow a 28,000 pound trailer?

Hey everyone,

I have been reading and trying to learn about my options for a new tow vehicle to replace our current 1999 F350 dually 7.3 powerstroke

Wife and I recently pass down our 2007 Cardinal to our son (40'er) (15,000 pounds) and have started looking for a replacement trailer for fulltime living. The (used) units we are interested in weigh 24,000 - 28,000 pounds. We don't plan to do much traveling with the large trailer but do want the TV to be able to move it when necessary...I don't want to have to be dependent on hiring someone to move it if I don't have too.

I am thinking I would like to stay with a Class 4,5, 6 vehicle.... but not opposed to the Class 7 or 8 if it comes down to it.

Some things I am considering in making the choice are....
1. I want to buy a used vehicle (maybe $15,000.00 range)
2. I would like to use the vehicle as a work truck also if possible....tow a 20' cargo trailer for work as needed
3. I would like to be able to load our 12' slide in truck camper on the vehicle and use it at times
4. I would like for it to be prior to the year 2007 so don't have the diesel emissions

As you can tell I would like for it to be a very multi-purpose vehicle :)

I have considered a used short school bus....cutting the back out for the hitch???

I appreciate any suggestions....thanks much

27 Replies

  • Trackrig wrote:
    I didn't know they were still doing diesel truck emission testing, they stopped it up here years ago. You might check this.

    Bill

    I think the OP was referring to avoiding all the emission add-ons
  • I didn't know they were still doing diesel truck emission testing, they stopped it up here years ago. You might check this.

    Bill
  • With that weight and a desire to have older tow vehicle, use care when selecting an MDT. May have to go to something heavier.
  • I think you are asking too much of a single vehicle, for that price, to DO IT ALL!! What FWs are you looking at that are 24-28k lbs?

    Jerry
  • 14 tons? As in a 28,000 pound towed vehicle? Wowser. Yes, I agree. An F150.
  • F-150? If you check with your local RV dealer, I'm pretty sure he will tell you it's half-ton towable.