Need some info on a new truck

Greg 110OVI wrote:
Yes, Towing package, largest engine, and don't forget the Toyota Tundra, made in Texas.

And all the profits leave the USA.

mlts22 wrote:
Don't forget a factory towing brake controller. Ford's is good at dealing with sway and stopping it before the rig goes over the road's edge.

So it knows when to use more power and tt brakes instead of truck breaks.I just do not trust the information that these companies put out that may make one think ok all is well and looked after in the rv towing world.

Don't forget a factory towing brake controller. Ford's is good at dealing with sway and stopping it before the rig goes over the road's edge.

If you can't get the integrated brake controller, I'd definitely go for the Prodigy 3 (P3) as it's probably the best one on the market and is fully AWESOME!!

WoodGlue

therink wrote:
Make sure you get 3:73 rear axle.

Unfortunately the 3.73 rear end is no longer available in the GM 1500 line up. You have to get the 3.42 but with the 6 speed transmission you will not need the 3.73. My 12 Silverado with the 3.42 rear end and 5.3 V8 with the trailering package is great at pulling 6000 lbs anywhere i want to go and i go all over the Ozarks with it.

Yes, Towing package, largest engine, and don't forget the Toyota Tundra, made in Texas.

Are you looking for new or used? A properly equipped F150 or Chevy 1500 will handle your trailer fine, while both will struggle if not properly equipped. The "towing package" is mandatory as noted above. The later trucks have the 6 speed transmission which makes a huge difference too.

JackL wrote:
- Is there anything special I should look for in the transmission and drive train, etc ?

Get the "towing option." Should include oil coolers, Trans coolers, Larger Radiator, Maybe heavier springs, make sure the heavy duty hitch receiver is included. Get the lowest Rear Axle ratio highest numerical number) you can. See if you can option in a brake controller. Get the strongest engine you can. If you are towing just weekends and short range vacations this 1500 might be OK.

Jack not to be facetious. But you might want to look for a 250/2500 HD for that load. I know it's more money. It will be better suited for towing that load, so actually may work out to be less than a fully optioned 1500. But it will much easier handle that load, if doing some serious long range towing. And optioned for towing, with brake controller.

Make sure you get 3:73 rear axle.

Ask about a "trailering package" (may be referred to slightly differently between the big 3). In particular, make sure it has a transmission cooler. 6,0000 lb fully loaded? You should do okay. Do you have any mountainous terrain to cross?

I'm at 7,700 lbs, 09 Chevy 1500 does okay. Max towing capacity 9,600 lbs, would not want to pull any more than I now have with the truck. I met my match over Labor Day weekend, really struggled on a 10% grade, I made it, but then it wasn't 7 miles of climbing at altitude. I'm okay in Texas, pick and choose my roads in the Ozarks, won't go to Colorado though!

Good luck.