rhagfo wrote:
I tow 11,000# with our 01, with 3.55's without issue. Yes over that very conservative 8,800# GVWR
Thank God you don't have a half ton or you would be ripped to shreds. Don't you know they are barely serviceable even if you only go to 80% of what they are rated...?
OP, I would venture a guess that your truck has pretty much seen all the depreciation that its going to. If the body is solid and the engine and trans are strong, that truck will hold most of its current value for the next 5 years. Then in 2020 you can either go out and buy a brand new 2020 model truck with bells and whistles not even available yet or you can buy a 5 year old 2015 or anything in between. By then you will have a better idea of what 5er you might want to buy and can get an appropriate truck at that time.
If you have the itch right now (trust me, I know the feeling), then there is likely nothing wrong with buying a new truck now. Interest rates are low and a 2015 will be a massive upgrade over your 2001. In 5 years the cost of a similarly equipped model truck will likely be higher than it is now, so you could potentially argue that you are saving money buying it at today's price.
If it were me and my money, I would research the cost of a new truck and figure out what your payments would be for a 5 year loan. Then I would start a specific savings account at the bank/credit union and pay myself those truck payments over the next 5 years. In 5 years I would buy that truck CASH and walk into retirement with as little debt as possible.
Either way, congrats and I hope you enjoy retirement and a new truck and 5er! I am 12.5 years away from my retirement age myself. If all goes well, July 21, 2027 will be my last day and I will only be 46 years old!!!
2015 Ram CTD
2015 Jayco 29QBS