Why all the hate on 1/2 ton tvs

wing_zealot wrote:

LarryJM wrote:
... and those that are stuck with a 1/2T and are rationalizing the acceptability of it's often marginal towing capabilities since they can't afford or refuse to accept reality.

The reality is, you can tow at 100% of the manufacturers' tow ratings. If that means a 1/2T works out, then that doesn't make it "marginal" that makes one of several tools that can do the same job; but probably less expensively. You don't necessarily need a Mercedes to go to the prom, sometimes a Ford Focus is good enough.

I agree that there is nothing wrong with using a 1/2 tom as long as it is within all of its tow ratings and not just a chosen few. There are more factors/parameters to consider than just the max tow rating.
In the end most 1/2 ton trucks are payload deficient.
Another fallacy is that it's about money.
A 1/2 ton truck that is properly equipped for towing including max tow and max payload packages cost as much as a 3/4 ton.

Do you believe the ratings is ultimately the real issue. Anyone seriously trying to match a combo needs to have the entire rig weighed at least once.
Regardless of size a truck that is within all of its ratings will tow noticeably better that a truck that is within some of its ratings.
Lastly this is an RV towing forum. The 1/2 ton debate often centers around the fact that the 1/2 ton truck is a DD and better MPG's are desired. A 1/2 ton truck does make a better DD but it does not make it a better TV. One must decide their priorities.
I applaud the 1/2 ton guys that actually go out and order their 1/2 ton with all the options/packages to make it a decent tow vehicle vs. those that buy a grocery getter and attach a RV trailer to it.
Many capable 1/2 tons exist but finding a capable 1/2 ton on a dealers lot is not likely. In many cases a properly equipped 1/2 ton needs to be ordered.
If you are towing a 7500# plus dry trailer you will have a much easier time finding a capable 3/4 ton truck vs. finding a 1/2 ton truck.
By capable I mean able to be within all of its towing parameters when the combo is loaded ready to go.
Similar to the old pay me now or pay me later phrase. Avoid the upgrade game. By the right truck the first time around it always cost more to get it right the 2nd time around.
All too often 1/2 ton drivers are not aware of how poorly there 1/2 ton was performing until they upgrade to a 3/4 ton.
This same dilemma/debate exist between 3/4 and 1 ton as well as 1 ton and 1 ton duallies.