A few years ago I purchased a 1999 GMC Sierra heavy half ton, (sometimes referred to as lite ¾ ton) Z71 4x4. Since that time, I’ve completed the restoration process the previous owner had started, including changing out the rims to 18 inch and installing Michelin LTX AT E rated 10 ply tires, 5.3 ltr motor rebuilt, all AC system replaced, suspension upgraded, and before we leave for our retirement trip, I’ll install a new GM transmission, with a 3 year 100k warranty. In the past year, I’ve pulled our 28 RLS Keystone Bullet all over Florida and had no issues. My question is; we are retiring in two years, and want to head out west for six months at a time travel. Should I keep my current truck, or look at buying a newer 2/4 ton.

The newer trucks all have far better towing and cargo capabilities than those of 15-20 years ago. I had 2500 Ram that seemed a beast in its day, today some would call it underpowered. Since your truck is basically done, and you have the trailer already, try getting out of Florida some. A trip up to the mountains in western NC or Va will give you an idea of how the truck will do for longer trips including some mountains. I have a feeling you'll want a little more ooomph, but, since you already have it, give it a shot and enjoy what you rebuilt/restored with your own hands.

kerrlakeRoo wrote:The newer trucks all have far better towing and cargo capabilities than those of 15-20 years ago.Hard to imagine this is even a question, heck my 2012 Silverado is no match for towing compared to a new 2019 version. Friend of mine recently replaced his 2009 RAM Hemi with a new 2019 6-speed, drove it for a month, then took it back to the dealer, replacing it with a new 8-speed RAM Hemi which he says is noticeably better in every way than the same model year 6-speed.

After spending all that time and money on the old truck you might as well keep it. All the major components are new so it should be reliable and you’re never going to get your investment back selling it now.

I towed our trailer from Michigan to California with my 2002 GMC 2500 HD without any problems and would do so again. New trucks may have better towing capabilities, but not $50K better. If you are satisfied with the reliability I say keep on using it.

I'm still towing with my 02. Someday I will replace it, but not likely for a few more years. Sounds like you are not retiring for 2 more years. Use the truck until then and decide then if you want a newer truck. Until then, invest the money you would be spending for a newer truck and you'll have it if you need it.

Is anyone towing with an older pickup truck. | Good Sam Community

Saltworks
Explorer
Jun 23, 2018
I towed our trailer from Michigan to California with my 2002 GMC 2500 HD without any problems and would do so again. New trucks may have better towing capabilities, but not $50K better. If you are satisfied with the reliability I say keep on using it.
camp-n-family
Explorer
Jun 23, 2018
After spending all that time and money on the old truck you might as well keep it. All the major components are new so it should be reliable and you’re never going to get your investment back selling it now.
SoundGuy
Explorer
Jun 23, 2018
kerrlakeRoo wrote:
The newer trucks all have far better towing and cargo capabilities than those of 15-20 years ago.

Hard to imagine this is even a question, heck my 2012 Silverado is no match for towing compared to a new 2019 version. Friend of mine recently replaced his 2009 RAM Hemi with a new 2019 6-speed, drove it for a month, then took it back to the dealer, replacing it with a new 8-speed RAM Hemi which he says is noticeably better in every way than the same model year 6-speed.
kerrlakeRoo
Explorer
Jun 23, 2018
The newer trucks all have far better towing and cargo capabilities than those of 15-20 years ago. I had 2500 Ram that seemed a beast in its day, today some would call it underpowered.
Since your truck is basically done, and you have the trailer already, try getting out of Florida some. A trip up to the mountains in western NC or Va will give you an idea of how the truck will do for longer trips including some mountains. I have a feeling you'll want a little more ooomph, but, since you already have it, give it a shot and enjoy what you rebuilt/restored with your own hands.

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Is anyone towing with an older pickup truck.

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