Forum Discussion

mgreene's avatar
mgreene
Explorer
Jul 05, 2020

Best tow vehicle for our rig

We recently purchased a new travel trailer that’s 30’ long and weighs around 7500 pounds. On our way home, we realized our 2001 Chevy 1500 had a little trouble. Although it is within my threshold, it is too much for it! I have found a 2013 Chevy with the 6.0 and 6 speed automatic trans. It has 3.73 gears. I really don’t want to go the diesel route due to the long term upkeep cost. We will be mostly on flat terrain, but would love to be able to tow it to the mountains of NC. We really want to be able to use this new camper since we spent all the money to buy a new one! My question,,,,is the 6.0 flex fuel engine in these models suitable to handle this size trailer?? I know everyone probably thinks a diesel would be best but not sold on that route. Thank you for any opinions!
  • mgreene's avatar
    mgreene
    Explorer
    Jul 06, 2020
    Thanks for the input. I still haven’t actually got to the dealership to look at the 2500 in question due to the holiday weekend. Hopefully I can get there this week and check it out. Any known issues to look for on a used 2500 besides the for mentioned car fax and service history?
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Jul 06, 2020
    I'd recommend Ford 6.2L, GM 6.0, or Ram 6.4L with 4.x axle ratio. I have the 6.0L and 3.73 which is just fine. 5th gear 72mph is 2500rpm. I'd like that to be a little higher to hold more hills and save a couple downshifts.
  • pitch's avatar
    pitch
    Explorer II
    Jul 06, 2020
    guidry wrote:
    You must have been misled about diesel upkeep; it really isn't much more than gas trucks. You're thinking of getting a gas truck with 90,000 miles; that would be barely broken in for a diesel. I'm getting 21mpg highway (not towing) with my 16' 3500 and between 10 and 12 mpg towing a heavy 5th wheel. I also use my truck as a daily driver. Its a personal choice but your reasons against diesel aren't legit. If you really want a good towing truck then you might want to rethink diesel options.


    Why oh why? The man said he is looking for gas engine truck. Why would you recommend anything else?

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