Forum Discussion

teraandjim's avatar
teraandjim
Explorer
Dec 28, 2014

Getting close to finalizing a setup. Need some input.

Need some honest input on Tow Vehicles. But first here are the three finalists for our trailer: 1.Keystone Springdale 282BH, 9515 GVWR; 2. Jayco Flight 28BHBE, 9250 GVWR and 3. Forest River 26C Gray Wolf, GVWR 7910. Hitch weights for the three range from 610 to 910, based on manufactures ratings. So I'll take the 910 Lbs. as a starting point, when I add family and gear I figure my payload on the truck will be around 2000 lbs. I would like to stay with a half ton if at all possible, I will be using it as a daily driver. But, i'm not opposed to a three quarter ton, I will be ordering what ever truck I purchase. I would like some input on anyone who has ordered a Half ton with the max payload and max trailering packages. Input from people who have towed these (or like configured) trailers with Half ton trucks. I'm looking towards the Ford F150 and GMC Sierra 1500. Both would be ordered with the heaviest trailering and payload packages. The engines would be the EcoBoost 3.5 in the Ford and the 6.2L in the GMC. I know the easy answer is to buy a 250/2500 gasser and be done with it, but I will mostly be towing in the State of Michigan and the truck will be a daily driver. If you have experience with a similar set up how you do like it? Thank you for any input,
Jim
Tow Vehicles
  • TomHaycraft's avatar
    TomHaycraft
    Explorer
    Dec 28, 2014
    If you can afford the 3/4 ton, go for it, you won't have any regrets. With the 1/2 ton, you have the potential for regrets.

    For me, the '09 Silverado was purchased when I didn't think I'd be at a point to purchase a trailer until "the next truck." Summer of 2012 opportunity presented itself, I got a trailer that would be within the limits, just under rear GAWR, but it is at 90% of GCWR. I'm okay in Texas, but where it runs out of "umph" is at 65 mph and into a stiff headwind.

    I knew it would not take me to Colorado, but that was okay, still working, rather not use the vacation time burning 2 days on each end of time away. That was until my son's duty station changed from Ft. Hood (just up the road) to Ft. Caron in Colorado. With a reason to go to Colorado now, burning the PTO is a bit more palatable, I'm in the market for a 3/4 or 1 ton with diesel.

    Hope these experiences help. PM me if you want more details on my numbers.

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