Tow vehicle

APT wrote:
In That vintage, I'd get an HD truck. You'll want a lot more power since power and transmission gearing was more limited compared to 2009+ trucks.

x2; One thing that will make a huge difference is the 6 speed trans.

Others can confirm but I believe Ram when to the 6 speed in 2009. Much better gearing for towing.

This applies whether you go 1500 or 2500. My recommendation would be the 2500 because it will give you more options if you want to go bigger in the future. A properly equipped 1500 would be fine though.

Get the 3/4 ton. I had an 04 1500 Quad Cab with 3:92 rear and the Hemi to pull my 8500lbs Fifth wheel. Power was no problem, carrying capacity was. Found a great deal (in 2010) on an off lease 1500 Mega Cab (really a 2500 with a lighter spring pkg)with the Hemi and 3:73 rear. Night and day difference towing, still have the truck. I don't know why people try to jam all this towing capacity into a half ton when a jump to the 3/4 ton is miles ahead. If you can tow what they say with the new half tons, then the 3/4 to 1 tons are grossly under rated, or the half tons are grossly over rated!

In That vintage, I'd get an HD truck. You'll want a lot more power since power and transmission gearing was more limited compared to 2009+ trucks.

A 1/2 ton will comfortably pull a 6500lb trailer. I pulled a 28ft 6500 lb loaded TT with my Dodge conv van, it had the 5.9L and 3.90 gear. It was underpowered by today’s standards but it had no issues towing it on a 3500 mile 2 week trip out west!

If you think you may upgrade after a while then yes get the 3/4 ton. Otherwise the 1/2 ton willl be fine!

I am leaning toward a 2500 at this point. I prefer to have all my bases covered on the off chance I might upgrade the trailer that I get.

I am leaning toward a 2500 at this point. I prefer to have all my bases covered on the off chance I might upgrade the trailer that I get.

I don't know why a lot of people try to avoid a 2500 series truck. They are basically the same size, shape, etc. They interior is generally identical. They have all the same controls, etc.
The 2500 will generally get you a stronger frame, stronger axles, heavier duty springs, bigger engine, bigger brakes, stronger u-joints in the drive shafts, higher towing capacity, higher payload capacity, and often a stronger transmission. That's a lot of additional capability for not very much additional investment, particularly when looking for used trucks.

Thank you.Would it be more practical of me to just look for a three-quarter ton truck just to be on the safe side? Can it make that much difference? Thank you

Provided the truck is in good condition, that combo actually had the most power and most gears for that era I believe, compared to the 5.4 ford and 5.3 GM.
However with any 10-15 year old vehicle, within reason, the miles, condition, and maintenance are likely more important than the brand, 20hp or an extra gear.
Have 06 and 07 Dodges currently with a combined 300k and climbing and I don't feel either of them are "used up" or on their last legs. Both have been relatively trouble free, IMO.
Fwiw, I'm sure I could say the same about a Ford or Chevy from that era as well. All were pretty decent.

Thank you all. Valuable informatiom!!