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Linwoodrver
01-02-2014, 04:58 PM
I'm sorry to ask this question because I know it has been discussed numerous times with all different rigs, however, I don't want to make another costly mistake. I currently tow a cougar 31sqb with a 2012 Silverado 1500: Vortec V8 5.3L and 3.42 rear axel ratio and equalizer WD hitch with the following specs:
GVWR 7000lb
RGAWR 3950lb
Max Payload 1712lb
Max trailer wt 9500lb
GCWR 15000lb
Curb wt 5341lb
Max tongue wt 1100lb
Also important to note that we generally travel with 4 kids and bikes for each..
The Cougar specs are:
Dry wt 7169lb
Cargo wt 1830lb
Hitch wt 925lb

Thanks to all of the answered questions I have already read on this forum, it looks like I'm at least 1000lbs over on payload. I have the opportunity to trade up to a 2013 Silverado 2500 HD with 6.6L Duramax and Allison tranny with 3.73 axel ratio (18,000miles). I know you're all going to say that it's an absolute no brainier, but, is there any possibility I'm currently not over my capacity?? As much as I would love that truck, it would set me way back with the loss of equity in my current truck.
Thanks much for any advice!

Javi
01-02-2014, 06:27 PM
make the trade

Festus2
01-02-2014, 06:49 PM
Thanks to all of the answered questions I have already read on this forum, it looks like I'm at least 1000lbs over on payload. !

You may have answered your own question by acknowledging that you are well over payload. The trade to the Duramax is, IMO, your best course of action.

Linwoodrver
01-02-2014, 06:54 PM
That's what I was afraid of. I was really hoping that when you guys who know what you're doing double checked my calculations, you would have found that my current TV was not over any of the limits and I could continue with my current setup
Thanks for your help!

Bluewater
01-02-2014, 06:59 PM
The first time you tow with the 3/4 ton you will then see why we all agree.

Festus2
01-02-2014, 06:59 PM
Linwoodrver -

Why not wait for other members to work the numbers and see what they come up with? You've only heard from two of us --- and Javi is the only guy who "knows what he's doing". (whoops, Bluewater snuck his post in between. Sorry, Bluewater)

Don't despair just yet.

Ken / Claudia
01-02-2014, 10:02 PM
Linwoodrver,
Your families safety should be the most inportant thing you think of while traveling. Get a vehicle that is not overloaded, drive safe, enjoy camping.

Linwoodrver
01-03-2014, 02:11 AM
My family's safety was the very reason I posted the question....
Thanks for the responses

therink
01-03-2014, 03:04 AM
Make the trade. Way over weight for your 1/2 ton.

JRTJH
01-03-2014, 09:50 AM
linwoodrver,

I think you're right. The numbers add up to about 1000 lbs over assuming 4 kids with bikes, DW, other cargo in the truck, hitch, TV tongue weight, and full propane/battery and a fairly full cargo load in the RV.

Using the 1712 payload and being closer to 2700 lbs actual payload puts you at about 47% overloaded. That's a bunch !!!! I'd urge you to consider at least a 3/4 ton or possibly, if you're considering a larger RV as your family grows, even a 1 ton dually.

Linwoodrver
01-03-2014, 12:07 PM
Thanks much JRTH! Am working on a deal for the 3/4 ton as we speak:)

Linwoodrver
01-04-2014, 04:33 PM
I am currently negotiating on a 2013 Chevy 2500 LT diesel with 18k miles on it which was a leased trade in (1 owner). Price now is 41,500. The other one I'm interested in is a 2010 Dodge 3500 SLT with only 5,100 miles on it. The dodge has a nicer interior with lots more options. Also 1 previous owner and price for this 40,800. Both are SRW. Any opinions on which would be the better buy?

LittleJoe
01-04-2014, 07:23 PM
Although I am a Dodge man I would recommend the 2013 Dmax because of the improvements in the way the emmission system operates. (It uses DEF)

The 2010 Dodge emmission system CAN be more problematic especially if truck is not worked fairly hard most of the time. IF not for emmission issues they are a wash.

The 2013 Ram has changed its emmission setup for the better and I would recommend a 13 Ram over a 13 Dmax especially if you plan to keep it a long time to high mileage. JMO of course:D

SAABDOCTOR
01-06-2014, 11:37 AM
hey it's only money:D Like the rest I would make the trade you and your family are worth it. you are overloaded!! Even though I drive a Dodge. you will be very glad you made the trade!! nice truck:cool:

Linwoodrver
01-12-2014, 01:39 AM
Thank you all for the help with the calculations and your recommendations. Made the trade today for a 2014 Chevy Silverado 2500HD diesel Crew Cab and SW. Can't wait to begin towing with it. First trip will be to Ft Desoto, FL :)