Considering going back to 1/2 TV

[zackyboy3rs]

Due to back & hip problems I am considering going back to a Toyota Tundra as my TV. I know all about the payload limitations but my current TV is killing me to drive. As I remember the Tundra is a much easier driving truck (as it should be). Dont get me wrong, I really like my 2500 but when I drive it over long distances I have to hit the meds to control the pain.

Looking at my numbers when towing (my wife and daughter normally bring the Camry or Pilot to campground so they can go shopping).

2 people = 350 lbs
"stuff" inside = 50 lbs
Hitch wt = 840 lbs (7500 TT GVWR x 12%)
Cooler in bed = 110 lbs

Total wt = 1350 lbs.

Only thing I am not considering is the wt. of the gas.

Ok tell me how crazy I am.

[_DJ_1]

I think you would be hard pressed to get a truck capable of your needs that would ride better than a 2500 IFS GM!!!!

Maybe look into having your current seats rebuilt/replaced?

[goducks10]

mojoroo wrote:
I would look at a ford ecoboost. Also I would check for trucks with power adjustable pedals. But try many lines and brands, especially one from the big three as they have more options for towing and packages.

I know the F150 XLT has power adjustable pedals.

[mojoroo]

I would look at a ford ecoboost. Also I would check for trucks with power adjustable pedals. But try many lines and brands, especially one from the big three as they have more options for towing and packages.

[mkirsch]

This is a tough call...

By you're numbers, you're running pretty close to the maximum for most Tundras or other 15-series trucks. Stripped down "work truck" models will net you a little extra wiggle room as far as that goes.

There are two major risks here:
1. You are assuming that the truck will ride "more better" enough to keep you from being in pain. IMHO, that's a long shot.
2. You are assuming that you will be satisfied with the performance and handling of the lighter truck. IMHO, you'll probably be able to live with it, but it is right up there towards the limits.

[goducks10]

I would drive them all 1/2, 3/4 tons and see what feels right. There's a big difference between manufacturers on seating. Speaking of seating we went from a 2010 F150 XLT that had 4 way power with manual recline and lumbar. Never could get comfortable in it. Constantly played with the forward/backward button. Traded the truck for a 12 Ram 2500 that has no power in the seat. I found a good position and it's stayed there. For me it's way more comfortable. Fords F150 seats are longer on the bottom, Rams are a little shorter. That's why you should try them all. My two all time most comfortable seats were an 84 Dodge Aires bench and a 94 Ford Ranger.

[APT]

BurbMan wrote:

So, he'll only be in pain when he's going camping? LOL!

Could be a new truck is the only answer.

If the seats in current truck are causing a problem, then new truck. But loaded/towing, the suspension/tire differences between half ton and 3/4 are not significant. In fact, a 3/4 ton might be better.

[tbred]

We recently traded our 2008 f250 for a 2012 f250, the seating is like night and day! I couldn't sit in the old truck for 10 minutes without horrible back pain, the new truck is a dream! I can't believe they changed the seating that much. Whatever you choose to do, spend lots of time test driving. It may not necessarily be a 1/2 ton vs. 3/4 ton thing.

[JRS___B]

Based on your reply to my post, I vote for a new truck.

Just a little off the subject, but we were recently looking at new cars (as in family four-door sedans). Besides power, lumbar support and heat, one car actually had a pull out support under the driver's seat to extend the bench part for better support on long drives. To me that is at least an indirect recognition that all bucket seats leave a little something to be desired in the comfort department, even on a Cadillac XTS.

[zackyboy3rs]

Thanks for the suggestions. I will explore all.

[Grit_dog]

Don't think you're too to see much of a comfort difference between the 2 trucks.
Lower the tire pressure. If the light bothers you get it re programmed so you can keep the tires as soft as possible when not towing. Gasser 2500 could run 40 psi f and f pretty easy.
You can always turn down the torsion bars in front and remove a leaf in the rear. Still waaaay cheaper than a new rig.
IMO GM 2500s are on par with the best riding pickups.

[transamz9]

Think the biggest difference in the Tundra over the HD class trucks is the height the seat sits off of the floor. The Tundra sits more like a "car" per say than the HD trucks do. Meaning when you sit in the seat, your legs are more out than in the HD trucks. It's almost like you are sitting in a recliner with the foot kicked up. I could see where this could help someone with back and hip problems. I know in my truck I have to ride with the seat height all the way down to be comfy and not hurt and my wife likes to jack it to the ceiling. Same way when I'm in a big truck, I run the seat flat on the floor with just enough air so the seat will give some cushion. I also lose feeling in my hands very easily so I can't ride with the seat to far back. I have to have my arms bent at all times while driving or my hands go numb.

Something else I have to do also is empty all my pockets especially my billfold in the back pocket. This also causes my hips to ache.

[jerem0621]

I'm actually considering the same thing. I don't think there is anything wrong with switching to a half ton. The only Downgrade part about it is the towing and payload capacity. They ride nicer, handle better, are cheaper to maintain, and are very capable.

As long as you are close on capacity I would be fine with the ride upgrade.

For towing you can always add air bags if needed.

Good luck and keep us posted. I hope the back gets better!

Jeremiah

[TomG2]

zackyboy3rs wrote:
Due to back & hip problems I am considering going back to a Toyota Tundra as my TV. ...snip....................
Total wt = 1350 lbs.

Only thing I am not considering is the wt. of the gas.

Ok tell me how crazy I am.

I went back to a half ton twice in the last ten years and am now driving a 2500HD (again). When one has to account for the weight of their fuel, I think they are asking for trouble with their towing experience. Half ton with smaller trailer is what I will do if and when I want or need to downsize again.

[BurbMan]

APT wrote:
Um, buy a better handling DD. Save the truck for TV duty.

So, he'll only be in pain when he's going camping? LOL!

Could be a new truck is the only answer.

[APT]

Um, buy a better handling DD. Save the truck for TV duty.