Forum Discussion

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!

23 Replies

MFL
Nomad II
Jul 05, 2020
The 6.0 with 3.73 gears will work, but with 4.10 gears, much better. IIRC in 2014 they switched to make the 4.10 gears standard. If the 2013 is in great shape, a good price, I'd go for it. If not, I'd look for 14 or newer model, maybe consider a Ford later model, with 6.2 6-speed.

Jerry
Grit_dog
Navigator II
Jul 05, 2020
Yes it will be very noticeably better.
If it’s a half ton Vortec max 6.0, it won’t handle the load appreciably better but the power will be much better. If it’s a 2500 truck then it will also handle the trailer markedly better.
corvettekent
Explorer
Jul 05, 2020
Is this new truck that you are looking at a 2500? If you but another 1500 you will only be on here again asking about a bigger truck. The gas 6.0 should work fine for you.

FYI I have 160,000 miles on my diesel with no long term upkeep cost yet.