Lantley wrote:
I would agree with APT. Sounds like you want a dedicated tow vehicle. Gas mileage for 1/2 ton vs 3/4 will be the same while towing. The only reason to consider a 1/2 ton is they may have a softer car like ride when not towing.
However that same softer suspension and chassis becomes a liability when towing.
Trying to find a older 1/2 ton gasser equipped for towing is a tall order.
If you plan to use the vehicle mainly for towing,why fool around with the 1/2 ton search when lots of capable 3/4 tons a readily available.
Thanks again to all, for the replies. Actually, it won't be a dedicated tower. We go to the same campground thoughout the summer camping season, and we rent a storage space 2 miles from the campground. So we only tow the TT to the camping area once in the Spring, and bring it back home in the Fall. The rental cost of the storage is less than the increased fuel from towing, so it saves money and hassle. So all summer, we will be driving the TV back and forth from home to the camping area (with a change of elevation from 1100' to 7700'), with nothing in tow. Maybe once every two years, we might take a longer trip with the TT in tow to nearby states and other campgrounds.
We also will use the vehicle for some short errand trips throughout the year near home. It won't sit all the time. So a lot of the usage of the truck will be empty, so the harsher ride of a 3/4 ton over a 1/2 ton is a consideration. Also for the same reason, mileage when not towing is important to me. That is why, though I like the V10 engine, I'm not keen on one due to the bad mileage empty.
Still, you all make excellent arguments for a 3/4 ton over a 1/2 ton, and I will definitely consider a 3/4 ton. However, I think that will make my job harder, as it appears to me that crew cab short bed 3/4 ton trucks are harder to find than long bed. I don't need or want a long bed, as it's not convenient parking it in the city when I use it here. I also notice that so many used trucks around here are lifted, and I do not want a lifted truck -- prefer bone stock if I can find a clean one.
Merry Christmas to everyone and your families!
