Forum Discussion

Mattyd's avatar
Mattyd
Explorer
Oct 13, 2013

Need help with a few new truck options!

Friends..It is my goal to be up and running with a new truck and camper for next summer. I am working on specking out a new GMC 3500 dually diesel crew cab long bed. I am either going to try and find a left over 2013 or wait a few more months to order a 2015.
My questions for you experienced TC brethren is as follows...Are they worth it or not for a truck that will be primarily a TC hauler? I want to do it once and do it right. How or why would you justify the following options?

Snow Plow Package $495. I am not going to plow snow but it equips the tuck with a heavier front axle.

Auxiliary Heavy Duty Battery $135.

160 Amp Alternator $75 -

Dual Alternators $270. -

High Idle Switch $200 -

Power Sliding Rear Window $250

Thanks in advance for all your help. Can't wait till next summer!!
Truck Campers
  • CAJW's avatar
    CAJW
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    On our 2013 we got the snow plow prep which included the dual 125 amp alternators. I thought the 160 amp option was for the single, but could be wrong. We also got all the options you have listed minus the high idle switch and haven't missed it. We find the power rear window isn't such a must have, but it's there if cross ventilation is desired. Our rig has turned out to be a fantastic TC hauler, very happy with the results and minimal suspension additions. Sounds like you're headed for TC bliss as well. ;)
  • Gripnriprod's avatar
    Gripnriprod
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    That is the equipment I ordered on my truck except for the high speed idle switch. It was a little confusing as I was worried the truck wouldn't idle up for warm up but that wasn't the case. The high idle switch would be beneficial if you were running a PTO but as an option for a TC hauler, there was no advantage.
    Feel free to send me a PM.
  • 69_Avion's avatar
    69_Avion
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    I personally like the heavy duty alternators and whenever I can get them, I do so. I also like a sliding rear window, but I can't think of a time when I need it "powered". I really don't know if you get a stronger axle with the snow plow option. If it was better, I would probably do it, especially if you are going to keep the truck. If it is stronger, I would put a winch up there instead of a snow plow.
  • 12V_Cummins's avatar
    12V_Cummins
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    Personally No to snow plow prep if you are not going to plow commercially.. They tend to level a truck out which is not so good when adding a tc.
  • Golden_HVAC's avatar
    Golden_HVAC
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    Mattyd wrote:
    Friends..It is my goal to be up and running with a new truck and camper for next summer. I am working on specking out a new GMC 3500 dually diesel crew cab long bed. I am either going to try and find a left over 2013 or wait a few more months to order a 2015.
    My questions for you experienced TC brethren is as follows...Are they worth it or not for a truck that will be primarily a TC hauler? I want to do it once and do it right. How or why would you justify the following options?

    Snow Plow Package $495. I am not going to plow snow but it equips the tuck with a heavier front axle.

    Auxiliary Heavy Duty Battery $135.

    160 Amp Alternator $75 -

    Dual Alternators $270. -

    High Idle Switch $200 -

    Power Sliding Rear Window $250

    Thanks in advance for all your help. Can't wait till next summer!!


    Snow plow pkg probably is not required - you probably have the highest weight rated front springs now.

    Aux battery is normally only on gas engines, you would have dual batteries with the diesel option, so probably not available.

    160 amp alternator is probably over rated. The standard 130 amp should be plenty to charge the battery, and run everything on the truck as well. The dual battery or 160 amp might be needed for something like a ambulance, with a dozen or so lights on the roof.

    I really liked the sliding rear window on my pickups.

    Fred.
  • billtex's avatar
    billtex
    Explorer II
    Oct 13, 2013
    Snow Plow Package $495. I am not going to plow snow but it equips the tuck with a heavier front axle.
    Yes

    Auxiliary Heavy Duty Battery $135.
    Diesel will have dual batts?

    160 Amp Alternator $75 -

    Dual Alternators $270. -
    Not sure I see value in this...upgrading charge line will be more useful

    High Idle Switch $200 -
    Should be standard on diesel?

    Power Sliding Rear Window $250
    Sure...why not...

    Good luck, Bill
  • crickeydog's avatar
    crickeydog
    Explorer
    Oct 13, 2013
    It only costs a skosh more to go 1st class. Buy'em all. We did!!!

    Happy camping!!! See y'all down the road!!!:)
  • romore's avatar
    romore
    Explorer II
    Oct 13, 2013
    Those are useful options if you want to plow snow but are likely overkill for your application.

About Travel Trailer Group

44,027 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 05, 2025