How much engine to tow 5500 lbs?
My wife and I are looking to buy a used 19-22 ft 5th wheel. Weight range from 35-4000 dry so I am figuring 5-5500 lbs wet weight. I have already decided the TV has to be a 3/4 ton with either a exte...
Forum Discussion
NC Hauler wrote:dodge guy wrote:
Any of the current 1/2 tons is more than you need. a 5th wheel the size you are thinking has a small frontal area. any o the V-8`s will do just fine.
If you want a 3/4 ton, I`de go with the Ford with the V-10 or the Dodge with the 5.9 or 5.7L. Chevy with the 6.0L is the only choice.
Actually for the years OP is talking, 1998 to 2004', as far as Chevy/GM goes, the 6.0 isn't the only choice...as stated, 5.7 and the 8.1 were available during those years...Having towed the same 5er through the mountains with a 2003 6.0 and the 2001 8.1....though the 8.1 is a gas guzzler, the 6.0 couldn't compete with the 8.1 strapped to an Allison....the 8.1 was the only gasser back then put out by GM/Chevy that came with the Allison, (other than the Duramax), to me that's a BIG plus , ( of course mpg was a big minus).
Jim, I think the GM 5.7 was left out as an option, due to the low torque/low HP. It is dependable, like the Ford 2v 5.4, but down on towing power.
Jerry
