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redneckanize's avatar
redneckanize
Explorer
Sep 24, 2014

honest advice on a truck for towing 10000lbs

I am looking to get a sandstorm toy hauler travel trailer. I am wanting some advice on the tow vehicle. I am neutral when it comes to brand. The trailer will be 10k or less gvwr. I have the following questions. Is it worth it to get a diesel factoring in the cost of fuel and mileage. What truck is best for price. I would like to know real world mileage. I need a min of 10mpg if possible. I will be towing in various terrain and on trips over 1000miles at least once a year. Most of the towing will be within 200miles to the dunes. I want to spend under 30k on the vehicle. I don't mind getting a used vehicle especially if the newdiesels are not that great. I am strongly looking at a 2500 Silverado with the duramax. But I was wondering if the diesel upgrade is even worth it. 9000 difference in price buys alot of gas if the towing fuel mileage is not a huge difference. Thanks for the advice.

67 Replies

  • What is the fuel mileage difference between a gas and a diesel? just wondering if the cost is worth it.
  • If you are towing in the flat lands, a gasser will work. Get a diesel if you tow in big hill or mountain country. A 250/2500 will work but a one ton is only a few hundred bucks more.
  • My GMC 3500 dually averages 10.5 to 11.3 towing our 13200 lb fiver. Going through north Alabama hills you'd never know the fiver was there. Love my Duramax.
  • If you believe the commercials, you need something from Toyota or with Eco in the title. Just kidding, and only you can estimate the cost benefit of diesel. Any F-250 or 2500 series pickup will tow the trailer, no matter the engine choice.
  • I bought the GMC 2500 duramax. For me it was the extra torque going up the mountains and the exhaust brake coming down that made up my mind. Get Gas Buddy App for your phone and you can get better pricing on the diesel.