Buying new truck: ? about gears and cab configuration

Sheldon Cooper wrote:

33'5th Wheel with a UVW 9,195 & Hitch Weight 1,695
2017 F-350 diesel SRW 4x4 short box

My questions:

1. 3.55 or 3.73 gears?

2. Which cab configuration?
Crew Cab = 160" wheel base
Super (Extended) Cab = 148" wheel base

2a. Does the cab style affect driver comfort, handling, or fatigue while pulling?

2b. Does the wheel base affect driver comfort, handling, or fatigue while pulling?

2c. What about backing pluses and minuses with each cab?

3. Does selecting a different GVWR package make any difference for towing? I.E. There is an option for 10,000/9,900 and 11,400 GVWR package.

Take a look at page 23 on the 2017 Ford Towing Guide

Are you dead set on a short bed pickup? When I was shopping I stumbled across my 8' bed, crew cab RAM. I wasn't looking for something that long but now that I have it I'm very happy. You definitely have to pay attention when parking but you learn the tricks. The nicest thing is with an 8' bed you don't need a slider 5th wheel hitch.

1) 3.31 or 3.55 are your gear options.

2) I prefer a crew cab because we're a family of 5 with 3 boys. You can get by with a Supercab. How many people will be riding in the truck on a regular basis? If you have frequent back seat passengers get the crew cab. But, if you only have someone every once in a great while, get a Supercab with an 8' bed.

2a) I like to feel I have plenty of room. The larger crew cab doesn't feel cramped on long runs.

2b) Wheel base definitely effects comfort. The longer it is the less you feel road joints and you 'float' more.

2c) I mostly use my side mirrors for backing, when looking over my shoulder I do like the visibility in a crew cab.

3) Get the higher GVWR. You'll regret it if you don't. It doesn't change the power of the truck but it does give you more capacity for pin weight.

Are you ordering this truck new? Without a doubt, if you're buying new be sure to get the Factory 5th wheel and gooseneck prep package. This makes installation and removal of the hitch a snap and leaves your bed clear when the hitch is out. I installed the package on my RAM after I bought it and I'm so glad this is an option.

KJ