Pickup shopping. 7,200 lb TT

I wont get into the gas vs diesel part but because I'm biased. I would say a 3/4 ton is a must. If you are going to be putting lots of miles on it you will be happier with a truck that is designed exactly for that reason.

I'm going to start researching diesel engines. I've never owned one, but I know some changes had taken place. The only other engine I was looking at was the Chevy 6.0L gas engine. Thanks for all the input.

If I was going to be towing something that size/weight with the frequency you indicate, I would go with a 3/4 diesel. Very comfortable towing experience, most miles per tankful, etc. The Ford you're looking sounds like a decent deal.

I have pulled with both Ford and Chevrolet half ton pickups, and I agree with APT. I am not talking about the few HD half tons out there, but the usual models that the dealers carry. A 2500 or F-250 will keep you camping instead of on here asking how you can lighten your load, or improve your pickup's capabilities. Having said that, if I towed very little, the half ton models are easy to live with when not towing.

KD4UPL wrote:
That trailer can certainly be pulled by most 1500 series trucks but it's getting on the upper end.

Not most. In fact, very few. Most manufactures offer a configuration to do so, but not most as equipped on dealer lots or in the public's hands. Even Ford's Max towing and HD payload packages that so many people speak of on hear as if you can walk into a dealer and pick any color/trim you want.

That's 8500 pounds loaded with 1000+ pounds of tongue weight. Get a 3/4 or single rear wheel 1-ton. Gas for diesel will both work very well. Diesel will cost less in fuel and pull it seemingly easier, at about a $8k premium up front. It's your money.

harper223 wrote:
I've thought about diesel. Better gas mileage? Also, I'm seeing f250 xlt 4wd for around 38k. Brand new.

Sounds like a good price! If you are going to be towing a lot, and maybe upgrading trailers if you spend a lot of time living in it, go for the diesel.

harper223 wrote:
Time to get another truck. Actually we haven't had the tundra since last year so we haven't been camping. Now I'm going to need the TT for Business purposes as well, along with fun. Going to be raking up the miles.

I've driven Toyota cats and tricks for twenty years, with virtually zero issues. I loved that tundra, but it was totaled, so here I am.
Tt:scaled at 7,200 lbs. Hitch weight of 812lbs. Length of 31feet. 2009 jayco eagle super light. 7,200 lbs is not super light, but ok.

Hensley hitch, so add some weight to the hitch.

I know a lot about Toyota, but I'm all ears. I've never pulled anything with more than a half ton.

Any suggestions?

Did you un-hitch the TT at the scale to get the 7200# weight or was that just the trailer axles?

Assuming the total weight of 7200# I agree with the posters that you'd be okay with a capable 1/2 ton. Of course a 3/4 ton is a much more stable and enjoyable experience.

Having towed a very similar trailer with both a capable 1/2 ton and a 3/4 ton diesel I'd opt for the 3/4 ton hands down. Of course the power of the diesel is great but without hesitation I'd take the 3/4 ton with a gas motor just because of all the other stuff (brakes, suspension, etc.).

The cost of any modern day diesel is pretty much ridiculous but you mention work so I'm thinking deductible expenses? If so, that makes it a bit easier to swallow but still expensive.

I towed the same weight, size TT with a 10 F150 maxtow. It was certainly doable. But when I jumped to the Ram 2500 CTD is was way more enjoyable. Take the diesel away and it would still be better. I just prefer a 3/4 ton for the stability and knowing that I have a more than a capable tow rig. Sure the 1/2 ton does the job but the 3/4 ton just does it easier. Only issue is mpg when running empty.

Well the the new tundras are out in September and my dealer said that by Christmas, they expect to be dropping thousands from the 13 models. I would like to look at others though. The tundra I had was a 5.7L 4.3 rear diff with the tow package.

It's really your call, any of the newer, properly equipped 1/2 tons will do the job and get you the best overall mpg. We opted for a 3/4 ton Chevy gasser to tow a bit heavier TT and are not overly concerned about mpg as our truck is a dedicated tow vehicle just sitting in the garage until it's called to duty. Test drive them all as opinions among my friends and family are pretty evenly split across the Big 3. I've driven all of the Big 3 as work vehicles and they all performed well, my Dad drove Chevys and is probably the main reason why I drive them as well. Enjoy your new truck!!!