Tow Vehicle research

GregK wrote:
Although we're having our 2010 Eagle 351RLSA delivered and set up at our seasonal site I'm starting to consider buying a truck capable of pulling it.

I have never owned any HD model truck and I'm so sticker shocked at the new trucks, especially once you "build" a tow package!

I've started considering buying used but have no idea where to start. I see 2011 models with what I would consider insanely high mileage but the lower mileage trucks aren't exactly a great deal either. I currently have a 2011 Nissan Titan that I own outright and it's loaded with goodies so a private sale on it should get me some decent cash.

The trailer weight specs (to save you from looking them up) are:

Dry Weight (lbs/kg) 11050 / 5012.3
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs) 3900 / 1769
GVWR (lbs/kgs) 14950 / 6781.3
Hitch Weight (lbs/kgs) 2560 / 1161.2

I'm not a Ford fan by any means and I've heard the Powerstroke diesel is the weakest of what's available out there, but it's only what I've heard here and there.

It's time to ask those that have HD trucks and actually use them as trucks what your experiences have taught you, good and bad. I also want to use the truck for general purpose, family driving and the like.


I'm ready to absorb it all, so let's hear it.

GVW of almost 15,000# would give you a hitch weigh of around 2800 to 3,000#, possibly be higher....Kick out the dry weight's, they're a joke.

If not going any heavier, and you're going to probably buy, "used"...I'd look for a 1 ton dually, or a 1 ton SRW truck that will handle the weight....Doesn't matter if it's Ford, Chevy/GM or Dodge/Ram...Get into a 2010 and up and any of the big three will do the job for you. Just have to make up your mind which route you're going to go with a TV, I believe an older 3/4 ton wouldn't work as well as a 1 ton SRW truck would, and a dually would take all the guess work out of it...Probably a lot of great deals out there on 13' that are being closed out....Guess it'll also depend on your budget, but don't crimp on the TV