Tow Opinion
I have an opportunity on a great deal on a 2014 Streamlite Ultra Lite 30KBS. However, my main concern is that it is too much trailer for my 1500 Ram. I have my Ram setup for towing, 3.92 gears, ...
Forum Discussion
I had a similar setup to the OP for a couple of years. Ram 1500 Quadcab, 3.92 Hemi, and airbags. Trailer was a 34.5 ft Rockwood (Windjammer) that showed 7980 lbs. fully loaded on the CAT scales. The truck was adequate, but not great. I had to remain very aware of approaching (or passing) traffic, even with the Hensley. I also found that some bumpy roads would cause the truck to nearly bottom out since the trailer was rocking (up and down) and the sheer weight and momentum seemed to overcome the springs on the truck. I pulled it thru the Rockies and a lot of the Gulf coast, but eventually decided I was pushing the odds on breaking an axle.
I traded the truck for a '17 Ram 2500 CC CTD and the difference is very, very noticeable. The total rig CAT scales at just under 17K lbs, and GCWR is 23K. Being well back from the max load is substantially better on rough roads and I don't even notice passing semis. FWIW, I kept the Hensley since it was already installed (even though I probably don't need it).
In summary, the half-tons really can pull those large loads, but you'll probably grow weary of having to stay on top of it all the time. And probably get tired of telling the family, "No we can't take any bikes or toys in the bed."
I traded the truck for a '17 Ram 2500 CC CTD and the difference is very, very noticeable. The total rig CAT scales at just under 17K lbs, and GCWR is 23K. Being well back from the max load is substantially better on rough roads and I don't even notice passing semis. FWIW, I kept the Hensley since it was already installed (even though I probably don't need it).
In summary, the half-tons really can pull those large loads, but you'll probably grow weary of having to stay on top of it all the time. And probably get tired of telling the family, "No we can't take any bikes or toys in the bed."
