Forum Discussion

aedubber's avatar
aedubber
Explorer
Sep 20, 2013

What TV will handle a 7-8k GVWR TT ?

I know most trucks will pull , but i want something that will go up and down safely .. I live in NJ so not many of the roads are flat per say . Keep in mind the new TV will be my DD as well so i need something that will handle DD and towing on weekends. First time towing and RVing ! :)

We wont be towing every weekend either and we wont be staying out for long trips too.
I plan on getting a TT that is around 26-27 FT length MAX and dont want no more then 7-7500 GVWR on the TT too ... Loading the vehicle and TT will be light since its only me and my gf , but would like the extra payload on the TV and CCC on the TT in case we bring 2 other adults.

I have been thinking of these 3:

Ford f150 Ecoboost
Dodge Ram 1500
Chevy 1500

I plan on taking all 3 out for a test drive to see what i like best for DD but i will sacrifice ride comfort for safely towing. I just want to do everything right the first time and not regret something or get something underpowered .

So any real time experience is greatly appreciated , and hello as a new member !
  • If you are talking "new" trucks, then the field is wide open. All max tow models have good power, 6 speed tranny and transmission braking. The big thing is payload for the truck and there, it does matter. You need 2000# +/-, so when you take your test drives, look at that number very closely. Also, all manufacturers make a tow model and then they make a max tow model and they are very different, so be aware of that also.
    we have a "max tow" Chevrolet and it would do the job with NO problems.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    I certainly did not have good luck pulling my 2005 8800LB fifth wheel with my 2004 F150 that was suppose to pull in the 9500lb range... Pulled it just fine but it was that coming down the other side of the mtn that ate my lunch. Probably more me than anything but it was white knuckles all the way down the other side. I could tell right away this wasn't going to be fun for me like camping is suppose to be so I parked my fifth wheel at the house and it still sits there.

    Have gone all over the South and East part of the US pulling my 4200lb OFF-ROAD POPUP setup with my now 2010 F150 truck...

    Roy Ken
  • If you have the time & energy, test drive a 1/2 ton AND 3/4 ton from each maker.

    Though you are within the limits of a modern half-ton, if you find the ride of the heavier duty truck to be acceptable you could end up with more margin & the ability to go larger in the future.

    So many great choices in both the half- and HD segments that I don't think you can truly go wrong with whatever you choose.

    Post your impressions here after your test drives...
  • They should all handle a TT that size comfortably, but as with any 1/2 ton truck keep an eye on the tongue weight and payload.