Now I'm worried...

[gslane1958]

I'm new to this forum... lot's of great info here. Wanted to get some opinions on towing with a 2016 Toyota Tacoma. I'll be getting a 2017 Passport Elite 19RB shortly and after reading some of the threads I'm a little worried that it's too much for my truck.

Here are the numbers...
Tacoma with V6 and tow package (double-cab short bed) has a max rating of 6,400. I believe it can handle 640 hitch weight.

The TT weighs about 4,300 dry. It can carry about 2,200 lbs, but it's just 2 of us so I don't anticipate loading anywhere near that. Shouldn't be much gear in the truck either. We typically camp with full hook-ups so won't be toting around water.

I just installed a P3 brake controller and will be using a Blue Ox hitch. We're on the east coast so most towing will be on flat roads with some rolling hills occassionally in Virginia and Pennsylvania.

I do plan to upgrade to a Ram 2500 in a year or 2, but was hoping I could make this work until then.

So how much trouble am I in?

[Dave-Gray]

I recommend you use the RVtowCheck.com app to find out what the truck's realistic vehicle towing capacity is.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Ken / Claudia]

1st off your doing what nearly everyone does when posting numbers. You you use max. numbers for your truck as in payload and towing numbers. And should than use the max wt. for trailer. Which it seems to be GVWR 6500lbs according to your numbers. Using trailer dry wt. and max truck wt. is wrong and not real world.
2nd you did not list your payload for the truck. It is found on the yellow sticker on or near the driver door. And you did not list the max. wt. your truck can pull.
A trailer tongue wt. is around 10 to 15 % of the real trailer wt. To get the real number you need to weigh the trailer when loaded. The published number is low. Example my trailer listed below said tongue wt. is 540 lbs. I took it across a scale loaded for camping. It was 900 lbs.
You maybe close to max. and it seems like that size of trailer should be OK to tow. But, the numbers you need to use is what Toyota made your truck to pull and carry.

[summerhummer]

Hello, I am just a regular guy not a safety advisor. I think with the dry weight mentioned and 1000 lbs of stuff you will still be good however I would double check the hitch weight and payload as mentioned. I doubt you will have 1K worth of stuff for the two of you. I believe my trailers dry weight was less than what was published when I took it to the scale not to say your will be too.

[66joej]

Advise from an oldtimer. Upgrade to the Ram now. Makes for easier and less stressful towing. JMHO

[sourdough]

What does the payload sticker say inside the door of the Tacoma? You are probably looking at 850-900 lbs or so for hitch weight. I doubt the Tacoma has lots of payload so that would be something to look for right off. From what I can see the gvw of the trailer will max out the Tacoma as well. You may think you will "travel light", but I can tell you from experience that the things you carry will grow and grow.

Bottom line I think you've chosen a trailer too heavy to safely tow with a Tacoma. Will it do it? Probably. Will it do it well? No. Will it be safe? Probably not. My dad has a new Tacoma that I drive a lot. Quite honestly I wouldn't put anything over a couple thousand pounds behind it. It sits too high, too light and too small. That's JMO based on trying to do exactly what you are doing over the years. You can't say enough about having a towing situation where the TV exceeds the weights you put on it vs trying to put more on it than it can handle. Something to think about.

[sourdough]

Hello, I am just a regular guy not a safety advisor. I think with the dry weight mentioned and 1000 lbs of stuff you will still be good however I would double check the hitch weight and payload as mentioned. I doubt you will have 1K worth of stuff for the two of you. I believe my trailers dry weight was less than what was published when I took it to the scale not to say your will be too.

"A thousand pound of stuff"? When you load the trailer with all the kitchen stuff, blu ray, clothes, various stuff, trailer cleaning stuff, tools, sewer/water stuff, WDh stuff, a ladder, etc....then load the truck with tools, leveling items, jacks for a flat, compressor, tools, grill, etc. etc. you will assuredly hit 1000 lbs without blinking (unless you just go minimal hoping for the best).

I said exactly the same thing when buying our trailer and we had almost 2000 lbs of carrying capacity. There was no way I thought. I didn't max out the trailer (200 lbs down) but then loaded the truck with all kinds of things (had to upgrade to a 2500 with a 3200 lb payload).

Be aware, understand what can/will happen and take the combo to a scale for your own safety.

[ctbruce]

You may not be in any....or you may. It depends on the numbers posted on your sticker on your door post. That is the true bottom line. If you post them and want the help people will chime in with their opinions. Bottom line is that it will be up to you to decide.

Chip Bruce, RPh
Kansas City, MO
2016 Fuzion Impact 312
2015 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ
WELL....THAT WAS FUN!

[bsmith0404]

Based on the numbers I can find from Toyota's website, they list the payload for your truck at 1175. As mentioned, check the door sticker to make sure. My guess is that your trailer will run somewhere around a 900 lb tongue weight. So as long as your WDH, you, your wife, and any other gear you put in the truck doesn't exceed 275 lbs you should be good (I'm going to go out on a limb and predict you'll be a bit over that).

As already mentioned, it will tow your trailer, but you are most likely exceeding the recommended limits and a different/more capable TV would serve you well and improve your safety.

[Tbos]

Welcome to the forum from Southern MD. When we bought our first TT I looked at the truck I had including the gear ratio and engine combination and bought a trailer 1500 lbs lighter. The truck towed it like a dream until the day I took it to the scales and I found out I was 100 lbs over the combined gross weight rating for the truck. I knew I had to upgrade. So I did and eventually bought a bigger TT too. Still have some margin on my numbers with my current setup. Bottom line, if you decide to upgrade your Truck go to at least a 3/4 ton. It will give you more options in the future. Best wishes for happy and safe trailering.

[gslane1958]

Thanks for the great advice everyone. I'll post the numbers from the sticker here later, but I think most of you are confirming what I feared. The trailer + gear will be a bit too much for this truck.

I'm also planning to get the units weighed... was planning to do (1) combined weight with all gear loaded, (2) just the TT with gear loaded, and (3) tongue weight with gear loaded. Am I missing anything?

When I upgrade the TV, it will definitely be a 3/4 ton in case I upgrade to a bigger TT at some point down the road. Was hoping to get at least one season out of the Tacoma, but we'll see how the weights look. First season will be mostly local camping and flat roads.

[JRTJH]

I think you're on the right track. Once you know (without question) the weights of your trailer, the capacities of your truck, then you can make decisions based on facts not on suppositions.

One concept I'd caution you about is that "scapegoat compromise" called, I'll only tow locally, it'll only be on flat roads and I won't go very fast.... All of those are "conditions that can't be guaranteed"... You never know when a child on a bicycle will dart out in front of you causing you to have to go into "emergency mode". You never know when a "brisk wind" will blow over the roadway when you're going "15 MPH under the speed limit" and push your rig into the next lane, hopefully not while it's occupied by a school bus filled with happy children on their way to the zoo or by an 18 wheeler that can't avoid your "lane encroachment".... There's a "million other emergencies" that can (and often do) happen while you're close to home, on flat and level ground and under what "should have been" ideal circumstances....

Don't fall prey to believing you can control situations better when you set up "circumstances" or promise yourself things will be safer "because"......

You're just as much at risk a block from home as you are on the other side of the state (or country), so if you're going to leave your driveway, plan to be as safe as you can be, regardless of"'promises not to do XXX"....

[gslane1958]

Wise advice JRTJH... If the numbers indicate I'm at or even near the limits I won't be towing anywhere until I upgrade the TV. My many years of riding motorcycles in the crazy traffic of the northeast has made me very safety conciuos.

[gslane1958]

Door.sticker attached ( hopefully )

[JRTJH]

The other sticker, the one that is only partly shown in your photo is the one with your payload. That's the one that gives you your maximum cargo and passenger capacity.

[sourdough]

Door.sticker attached ( hopefully )


What does the sticker below the one you posted say? The sticker you copied gives you the axle weights etc. but not the payload (CCC?). Is that on the other sticker? My Ram has a sticker like you posted then another one that gives the payload.

Whoops! Didn't see that John had already beat me to it.

[gslane1958]

Probably more helpful are the numbers from the Toyota eBrochure for my model/configuration...

Curb Weight = 4425
GVWR = 5600
GCWR = 11360
Payload = 1175
Tongue Weight = 640
Towing Capacity = 6400

Considering curb weight, passengers ( ~325 ), WDH ( guessing ~100 ) and tongue weight ( we'll go with the max until I can weigh it ) = 640... that leaves me with about 110 for an ice chest and some tools to stay under GVWR. Not sure if I did that right.

For towing, I think 5760 is the max weight of the TT ( GCWR - GVWR of TV ). With a dry weight of ~4335, I figure the max cargo in the trailer will be 1430.

Does my math make sense?

This is going to require a lengthy negotiation with the wife... either packin' very light or shopping for a 3/4 ton ( if I'm buying something, I'm going big ).

[BlueThunder34]

Probably more helpful are the numbers from the Toyota eBrochure for my model/configuration...

Curb Weight = 4425
GVWR = 5600
GCWR = 11360
Payload = 1175
Tongue Weight = 640
Towing Capacity = 6400

Considering curb weight, passengers ( ~325 ), WDH ( guessing ~100 ) and tongue weight ( we'll go with the max until I can weigh it ) = 640... that leaves me with about 110 for an ice chest and some tools to stay under GVWR. Not sure if I did that right.

For towing, I think 5760 is the max weight of the TT ( GCWR - GVWR of TV ). With a dry weight of ~4335, I figure the max cargo in the trailer will be 1430.

Does my math make sense?

This is going to require a lengthy negotiation with the wife... either packin' very light or shopping for a 3/4 ton ( if I'm buying something, I'm going big ).


You want to look at the actual "yellow" sticker on your door not the brochure, options on your specific truck such as leather seats, running boards, etc will drop that number for payload listed on the brochure quite a bit. I'm guessing it will be quite a bit less on the actual sticker vs brochure.

[gslane1958]

You want to look at the actual "yellow" sticker on your door not the brochure, options on your specific truck such as leather seats, running boards, etc will drop that number for payload listed on the brochure quite a bit. I'm guessing it will be quite a bit less on the actual sticker vs brochure.

Right you are... 1000 payload per the sticker.

[sourdough]

Right you are... 1000 payload per the sticker.

Tongue weight will be 800 lbs or so (figure at least 12% of trailer GVW) leaving you 200 lbs of payload. Hitch will be another 100+. Leaving 100 lbs or less. That leaves 100lbs (optimistically) for you, DW, fuel? and all the things you will put in the bed....and you will put things in the bed; so your payload capacity will be exceeded plus your GVW will also probably be exceeded. If max tongue weight for the truck is 640 you will definitely exceed that....and on it goes. All of the above doesn't take into account the terrible towing experience you will have in addition to putting yourself and other in danger.

Bright side!! I'm a Ram guy myself but I just read that Chevy is putting a big sale on their trucks right now so you might pick up a good deal. Tell DW the good news about a new 3/4 ton, take her to dinner and explain all of the wonderful fun you will have when you upgrade to a larger trailer.....I'm sure she won't be able to resist:flowers: :hide:

[gslane1958]

Tongue weight will be 800 lbs or so (figure at least 12% of trailer GVW) leaving you 200 lbs of payload. Hitch will be another 100+. Leaving 100 lbs or less. That leaves 100lbs (optimistically) for you, DW, fuel? and all the things you will put in the bed....and you will put things in the bed; so your payload capacity will be exceeded plus your GVW will also probably be exceeded. If max tongue weight for the truck is 640 you will definitely exceed that....and on it goes. All of the above doesn't take into account the terrible towing experience you will have in addition to putting yourself and other in danger.

Bright side!! I'm a Ram guy myself but I just read that Chevy is putting a big sale on their trucks right now so you might pick up a good deal. Tell DW the good news about a new 3/4 ton, take her to dinner and explain all of the wonderful fun you will have when you upgrade to a larger trailer.....I'm sure she won't be able to resist:flowers: :hide:

lol.... yeah, I kinda saw it was going that direction. I've started the negotiation process with her. I'm a Ram guy also, but will take a great deal anywhere I can find it ( except on a Ford ). No disrespect to Fords, just never had any luck with them, so I avoid 'em at all costs now.

Thanks again for the help!!

[gslane1958]

Found this one locally. Seems like a pretty good deal for a 2017 2500...

2017 Ram 2500 Tradesman Truck Crew Cab
Exterior Color : Granite Crystal
Interior Color : DIESEL GRAY/BLACK
Model Code : DJ7L91
Stock # : 16538
VIN : 3C6UR5CJ1HG558950

Packages & Options
Included Packages
Chrome Appearance Group
18" Steel Spare Wheel
Wheels: 18" x 8.0" Steel Chrome Clad
Bright Front Bumper
Bright Grille
Bright Rear Bumper
Tires: LT275/70R18E BSW AS
Radio: Uconnect 5.0
5.0" Touchscreen Display
GPS Antenna Input
Integrated Voice Command w/Bluetooth
Media Hub
Overhead Console
Charge Only Remote USB Port
Temperature & Compass Gauge
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
1-Yr SiriusXM Radio Service
For More Info, Call 800-643-2112
No Satellite Coverage w/AK/HI
Popular Equipment Group
Cloth 40/20/40 Bench Seat
Carpet Floor Covering
Front & Rear Floor Mats
Remote Keyless Entry
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
40/20/40 Split Bench Seat
Rear Folding Seat
1-Yr SiriusXM Radio Service
For More Info, Call 800-643-2112
No Satellite Coverage w/AK/HI
Engine: 6.4L Heavy Duty V8 HEMI w/MDS
11.50 Rear Axle
180 Amp Alternator
Electronically Controlled Throttle
GVWR: 10,000 lbs
Hemi Badge
Next Generation Engine Controller
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera
Rear View Auto Dim Mirror w/Display
Heavy Duty Snow Plow Prep Group
180 Amp Alternator
Transfer Case Skid Plate Shield
Protection Group
Tow Hooks
Transfer Case Skid Plate Shield
Quick Order Package 22A Tradesman
3.73 Axle Ratio
Front Armrest w/Cupholders
Additional Options
Tires: LT275/70R18E BSW AS
Cloth 40/20/40 Bench Seat
180 Amp Alternator
Popular Equipment Group
Tow Hooks
Integrated Voice Command w/Bluetooth
GPS Antenna Input
Media Hub
Front & Rear Floor Mats
5.0" Touchscreen Display
Next Generation Engine Controller
Charge Only Remote USB Port
Overhead Console
3.73 Axle Ratio
Heavy Duty Snow Plow Prep Group
Chrome Appearance Group
Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle
Hemi Badge
Rear View Auto Dim Mirror w/Display
Bright Rear Bumper
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
Engine: 6.4L Heavy Duty V8 HEMI w/MDS
Transfer Case Skid Plate Shield
Remote Keyless Entry
1-Yr SiriusXM Radio Service
Electronically Controlled Throttle
Radio: Uconnect 5.0
Rear Folding Seat
Clearance Lamps
18" Steel Spare Wheel
GVWR: 10,000 lbs
Protection Group
Carpet Floor Covering
Front Armrest w/Cupholders
40/20/40 Split Bench Seat
Trailer Brake Control
For More Info, Call 800-643-2112
Temperature & Compass Gauge
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera
Quick Order Package 22A Tradesman
Wheels: 18" x 8.0" Steel Chrome Clad
Bright Front Bumper
Spray In Bedliner
No Satellite Coverage w/AK/HI
11.50 Rear Axle
50 State Emissions
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Bright Grille


$44,805 MSRP

$9,221 Savings

$35,584 Sale Price

[66joej]

Just saw an add for 2017 Ram 2500. Upgrade is Cummins diesel at no extra charge. Canadian TV but I'm sure it's the same deal in the US.

[gearhead]

That ought to be good for any TT. You will be able to upgrade 2 times to get RV #3 which is where most of us end up.
Cool color too.

[gslane1958]

That ought to be good for any TT. You will be able to upgrade 2 times to get RV #3 which is where most of us end up.
Cool color too.

Yup... would be a good long term solution. The only thing I'd change is the gears, but they're hard to find on lots. Everything I've seen so far has the 3.73.

[sourdough]

Yup... would be a good long term solution. The only thing I'd change is the gears, but they're hard to find on lots. Everything I've seen so far has the 3.73.

I was in the same boat gear wise. I've had 4.10, 3.92, 3.73, 3.55 in my Dodge/Ram trucks. You can't beat the 4.10 for towing but for long distance, high speed driving it ate up gas. I really liked the 3.92 but the 3.73 isn't bad (current truck) and I'm pulling 10k lbs. with it (in fact I'm pretty pleased with it).

That looks like a pretty good deal on that truck. If someone is giving away free upgrades to a diesel you might think about that if you want a diesel.

[Desert185]

Yup... would be a good long term solution. The only thing I'd change is the gears, but they're hard to find on lots. Everything I've seen so far has the 3.73.

With the diameter of today's tires and the overdrive trans gearing, 3.73 gears are probably a great option for a TV.

[gslane1958]

With the diameter of today's tires and the overdrive trans gearing, 3.73 gears are probably a great option for a TV.

From what I've read, they're fine for most conditions. Seems the 410's make the steeper grades a whole lot easier though. Being on the east coast, I don't have to worry about too many long, steep grades until I'm lucky enough to do a cross-country trip. If I'm really lucky, I'll be able to upgrade to a diesel for that trip.

I just figured it would be nice to have the extra grunt for hills if I do upgrade to a heavier trailer. I'd like to get a toy hauler so I can combine my hobbies at some point. But that's a few years out.

[canesfan]

From what I've read, they're fine for most conditions. Seems the 410's make the steeper grades a whole lot easier though. Being on the east coast, I don't have to worry about too many long, steep grades until I'm lucky enough to do a cross-country trip. If I'm really lucky, I'll be able to upgrade to a diesel for that trip.

I just figured it would be nice to have the extra grunt for hills if I do upgrade to a heavier trailer. I'd like to get a toy hauler so I can combine my hobbies at some point. But that's a few years out.

In that case you need to be looking at a diesel, and maybe a 1 ton, or you're gonna be in the same boat you're in at the present.

[gary31]

If you are considering a Toy hauler then you will be wise to look at a 1 ton TV if you think you are going with the BIG DADDYS.
I have a 3/4 ton TV and a 31 ft Carbon TH when loaded it is about 11k. Everyone will tell you about the driving experience and safety when towing but I have had my fair share of white knuckle trips and while you think you can control the situations while driving you will quickly find out how dangerous it becomes.
I moved from a 1/2 ton to 3/4 ton and it was night and day, but I can still misload the weight on the TH and have a dreadful drive. All this said you must use good sense and purchase a TV large enough to handle these rolling boxes. Wind and speed will beat you down and make any travel a miserable trip.

[bdaniel]

I had 3 2500 Dodge Diesels and my current truck is a 3500 single rear wheel. The difference in price is a few hundred dollars but the peace of mind is worth much more than that. Love my truck. I have large margins on all the numbers and I tow a 37 foot toy hauler with a Honda Goldwing bike in the back.

Set the cruise on 75 MPH and enjoy the drive.

Bobby

[gslane1958]

In that case you need to be looking at a diesel, and maybe a 1 ton, or you're gonna be in the same boat you're in at the present.

If you are considering a Toy hauler then you will be wise to look at a 1 ton TV if you think you are going with the BIG DADDYS.
I have a 3/4 ton TV and a 31 ft Carbon TH when loaded it is about 11k. Everyone will tell you about the driving experience and safety when towing but I have had my fair share of white knuckle trips and while you think you can control the situations while driving you will quickly find out how dangerous it becomes.
I moved from a 1/2 ton to 3/4 ton and it was night and day, but I can still misload the weight on the TH and have a dreadful drive. All this said you must use good sense and purchase a TV large enough to handle these rolling boxes. Wind and speed will beat you down and make any travel a miserable trip.

I thought about going with diesel, but it just isn't in the budget right now. A few years back we had a small TH ( ~25 ft & loaded with a Road King ). Towed it behind my 2007 Ram 2500 Hemi. We were all over the east coast from the Smokies to Acadia NP and never had any issues. It was a very stable setup and just enough power. My plan would be to get one a little bigger, but not much.

Based on my previous experience, I figured the 6.4 would do pretty well. I will admit though, this plan could be completely invalid as I haven't really looked a TH's lately. I don't know if something in the 28 - 30 ft range would have everything I need. Nor do I know what something like that would weigh fully loaded. Based on your post Gary ( 31 ft loaded = 11k ), I'm guessing it might come in just under 10k.

[sourdough]

I thought about going with diesel, but it just isn't in the budget right now. A few years back we had a small TH ( ~25 ft & loaded with a Road King ). Towed it behind my 2007 Ram 2500 Hemi. We were all over the east coast from the Smokies to Acadia NP and never had any issues. It was a very stable setup and just enough power. My plan would be to get one a little bigger, but not much.

Based on my previous experience, I figured the 6.4 would do pretty well. I will admit though, this plan could be completely invalid as I haven't really looked a TH's lately. I don't know if something in the 28 - 30 ft range would have everything I need. Nor do I know what something like that would weigh fully loaded. Based on your post Gary ( 31 ft loaded = 11k ), I'm guessing it might come in just under 10k.


In my mind you need to have some idea of how big you would eventually go in weight. If not you probably need to get a Kenworth.

As I've said, I tow a 10k trailer with the 6.4/3.73 with no issues; TX to FL, TX to S TX, TX to/thru the Rockies, TX to ??. The 6.4 is not like a diesel and it will want to spin to get through steep grades (6-7%) but it makes them just fine.

On the other hand, my mindset, and opinion, is that if you tow, or want to tow, anything over 10k you need to get a diesel; that's based on lots (many thousands) of miles towing with a gas truck. 5th wheels and toy haulers of any size need to be 1 ton diesels....IMO.

[notanlines]

I REALLY like the idea of a nice late model KW or Peterbilt, maybe a black single screw Volvo......ah, but I digress.
I concur with everything that has been said so far. We all also have a pretty good idea of your finances; been there, done that. You have to do the best you can for yourself and your family. Most of us would like to back up our New Volvo to our 43 foot Raptor, absolutely loaded with new toys. However, being realistic, buy and pull what you can afford. If you don't mind a little more work and time, shop for a relatively late model 3/4 ton or one ton diesel.
Then you've got the best of both worlds.

[gslane1958]

Hmmm... a Kenworth...

Not sure I could afford the payments after the divorce. :D

[bsmith0404]

Diesels are definitely the preferred TV when you get up north of the 10k lb range. Actually I really like the smooth towing on lighter trailers as well. It's nice to watch my boost gauge and see the turbo work, but the truck doesn't down shift and just cruises along smoothly when going over hills. The tranny temps on the Allison have never topped 190 even on long 10 mile, steep grades out west. It typically runs around 170-175 when towing. The exhaust brake is another amazing feature that is nice when you top those grades and start down the other side.
There are many slightly used diesels out there in the 35k range. By slightly used when it comes to a diesel, I consider anything under 75k slightly used. Keep in mind that the powertrain warranty on them is typically 5 yrs/100k miles. I can't speak for Ford and Dodge, but I know the powertrain warranty on a Duramax includes the exhaust system since the DPF and regen system is considered part of the engine (I had to have an exhaust Nox sensor changed at 50k and it was part of the 100k mile diesel system warranty). I have 145k on my Duramax/Allison combo and have no fear hooking up to our 15k lb 5er and heading cross country. I don't know that I would be that confident with a gas truck and standard transmission with those miles.
My advice: if you want to step up to a TH someday, take the time now and do some shopping. Get a good idea what you want in the future and then get the right truck for it now. You don't want to buy a new truck and be in the same situation you're in now a few years down the road.

[Lic0rice]

I thought about going with diesel, but it just isn't in the budget right now. A few years back we had a small TH ( ~25 ft & loaded with a Road King ). Towed it behind my 2007 Ram 2500 Hemi. We were all over the east coast from the Smokies to Acadia NP and never had any issues. It was a very stable setup and just enough power. My plan would be to get one a little bigger, but not much.

Based on my previous experience, I figured the 6.4 would do pretty well. I will admit though, this plan could be completely invalid as I haven't really looked a TH's lately. I don't know if something in the 28 - 30 ft range would have everything I need. Nor do I know what something like that would weigh fully loaded. Based on your post Gary ( 31 ft loaded = 11k ), I'm guessing it might come in just under 10k.

ALWAYS go larger on the TV if there is any chance of moving up to a larger TT later. We went with a Sierra 3500HD and absolutely love this truck. This is our 8th or 9th truck and by far our favorite. I also really liked the Dodge 3500 that we drove. Just a point to consider, we average 18.3 mpg combined highway/city in the NC mountains when not hauling and got 15.4 mpg hauling our loaded 5th down to Florida from NC.

You can't go wrong with either the Chevy/GMC or Dodge diesel 3500s. Both engine-trans combinations are great!

Good luck!!

[66joej]

2011 and on Ford F350 with the 6.7L (400hp 800#torque) works good also. Averaged 16 mpg pulling a 12000# 5ver from Radium Hot Springs BC across Canada and down to Nevada. This was 4 years ago. Have since sold the oufit (a mistake).

[VoyagerI]

Ok. Understand I’m a newbie here…but the op is asking about towing a 2017 Passport Elite 19RB and you all are replying back with 2500s, duallies, diesels, etc? What?

[sourdough]

Ok. Understand I’m a newbie here…but the op is asking about towing a 2017 Passport Elite 19RB and you all are replying back with 2500s, duallies, diesels, etc? What?


Read all of his posts. He alluded to going larger on the trailer in the future and was trying to prepare for that.

[CWSWine]

Hmmm... a Kenworth...

Not sure I could afford the payments after the divorce. :D


You get a used Kenworth will 500,000 miles left on it for less than decked our RAM 350 DRW. But that opens a whole new bag worms with insurance and etc. I looked into because I have seen smart cars loaded behind the cab pulling some larger 5ers. Some states you can register them as RV if they have sleeper but not mine.

[ctbruce]

Ok. Understand I’m a newbie here…but the op is asking about towing a 2017 Passport Elite 19RB and you all are replying back with 2500s, duallies, diesels, etc? What?
I believe that the OP'S comments about a larger future trailer/toy hauler spurred the conversations about 1 tons and diesels. That and him also being really tight on payloads. The decision is his, the advice is solid. A lot of us have been in the same situation for the same reasons.

Chip Bruce, RPh
Kansas City, MO
2016 Fuzion Impact 312
2015 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ
WELL....THAT WAS FUN!

[jaydubya1966]

I am a new 19RB owner and love it. Great little trailer that is kitted out pretty darn well. We have use our 2017 5 times and really want to use it even more. I started with a GMC Acadia (5200lb capacity) and recently upgraded to a GMC Sierra 1500 (9400lbs tow capacity) and wow what a difference. No more white knuckles all of the time. Like all things is life, getting the proper tool for the job is the best move. I opted for the bigger TV based on safety reasons. Peace of mind is important....there will be enough situations external to your control that you will need to respond to. Make the move when you can....goodness knows this gets a bit spendy. :)

[sourdough]

I am a new 19RB owner and love it. Great little trailer that is kitted out pretty darn well. We have use our 2017 5 times and really want to use it even more. I started with a GMC Acadia (5200lb capacity) and recently upgraded to a GMC Sierra 1500 (9400lbs tow capacity) and wow what a difference. No more white knuckles all of the time. Like all things is life, getting the proper tool for the job is the best move. I opted for the bigger TV based on safety reasons. Peace of mind is important....there will be enough situations external to your control that you will need to respond to. Make the move when you can....goodness knows this gets a bit spendy. :)

^^Amen. Most of us have been there.

[notanlines]

Voyager, be sure to read ALL the posts in this thread. His actual tongue weight running is going to be north of 900 lbs. When you add passengers, dogs, gear, fuel, etc in the truck bed.......just how big of a 1/2 ton do you own? See where this is going? By the way, you don't say what your equipment is. TV, RV, etc. Inquiring minds want to know.

[xrated]

In October of 2010, I purchased a new 2011 F250 Crew Cab 4x4 Diesel, the new 6.7 by Ford, which also has the new (at that time) 6 speed auto....similar in operation to the Allison in the GMC/Chevy trucks. I didn't know anything and obviously didn't research near enough before buying and just figured that a 3/4 Ton truck with a 400 HP/800 Ft. lbs torque, could pull and handle anything I wanted to put behind it....including a 35' - 40' 5er that I was planning on buying sometime down the road in 4 or 5 years. Surprise, surprise! So that 4 or 5 years down the road came this past October when we decided to buy our "retirement" Toy Hauler. The F250 Diesel just wasn't enough truck to handle the size 5er that I wanted to get. The CCC would have been overloaded by pin weight alone, much less anything additional that I would have needed to put in the truck.......like my wife, fuel, hitch, etc......you know some of the things that's always nice to have along for the trip! So, rather than having to spend money not only on a Toy Hauler, AND a new or used heavier duty truck, I chose to buy a T.H. that is a pull behind and the size is more than adequate for our needs. My preference would have been a 5er, but having something that is workable and also nice is better than not having anything. My point in all of this is that the lesson learned here is to research, talk to folks in the know (this and other forums with lots and lots of experienced folks), and do your homework based on factual information, not just hearsay (from a salesman). Had I done that, I would not have to have compromised on a 5er. Am I unhappy, not really. I think I have a very nice T.H. that will serve us well for the intended purpose that we bought it for. I'm not inclined to every be a full timer (that may change but not likely), and the 34 1/2' T.H. that we now have will hopefully work out very well for us.

The old adage about "location, location, location" in real estate has a counterpart in the RV world......"research, research, research".

[gslane1958]

Can't thank everyone enough for the advice... I pulled the trigger on the truck I really wanted in the first place. I think it will do fine for at least one more TT upgrade... maybe a small TH. Regardless, I can now tow my current TT ( when it's delivered ) safe and sound.

[gslane1958]

And... my wife ( :bow: ) let me keep the Tacoma!

[ctbruce]

#Winning!

Chip Bruce, RPh
Kansas City, MO
2016 Fuzion Impact 312
2015 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ
WELL....THAT WAS FUN!

[66joej]

Can't thank everyone enough for the advice... I pulled the trigger on the truck I really wanted in the first place. I think it will do fine for at least one more TT upgrade... maybe a small TH. Regardless, I can now tow my current TT ( when it's delivered ) safe and sound.

Perfect!! Enjoy that great looking truck. I envy you!

[sourdough]

Can't thank everyone enough for the advice... I pulled the trigger on the truck I really wanted in the first place. I think it will do fine for at least one more TT upgrade... maybe a small TH. Regardless, I can now tow my current TT ( when it's delivered ) safe and sound.

Congratulations on that new truck!! I think you're going to be really pleased and it should do a stellar job of towing the trailer you have......and another upgrade or two! I think you will like the 6.4 as well. I think you got the 4x4 but even then it has a lot of "ooomp":D

[Tbos]

Congrats on the TV. Let us know when you get your TT.


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[gslane1958]

Congrats on the TV. Let us know when you get your TT.


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Thanks... I'll post pics of the TT hooked up to the Ram. Probably mid-January at this point. I'm sure there's a proper thread for that... still finding my way around here.

[gslane1958]

Congratulations on that new truck!! I think you're going to be really pleased and it should do a stellar job of towing the trailer you have......and another upgrade or two! I think you will like the 6.4 as well. I think you got the 4x4 but even then it has a lot of "ooomp":D

It's really a nice combination. For a 3/4 ton, it rides very smooth. It is a 4x4, but even with all the weight it doesn't feel lacking for power at all. I'd have to look up the dimensions of the 2007 2500 I had to be sure, but this truck looks much bigger.

Actually, the new 1500's look as big as the 2007 2500. Maybe an optical illusion since I'm used to the little Tacoma now.

[Midnightsremedy]

Hi. I just bought the same 19RB and first and only 400 mile return trip towing with a Chevy Silverado, V8, 5.3L. The TT weight is about 1/2 of the trucks capacity, being said my truck was working but reasonably so. What I didn't count on is the wind resistance! Incredible, as I got 8.5 mpg I thought Jeez maybe there is something up with the TT / Truck combo. Apparently not, 8 -10 is considered normal, especially with cross or head winds. That being said, I would suggest that it is not just weight to think about but wind resistance (wr). There are technical names for wr, and what I read last week indicates that could and does play a huge role in what type of vehicle you tow with. The 19RB is 11'-2" high.....

Hope this helps.

[Ken / Claudia]

Midnight, I have some data about miles per gal and towing. Mainly since I have had the same truck listed below in 2003. I have had 2 truck campers. 1st wt 3400lb, 2nd 4400lb. Than several boats. Mainly current boat 3800lb, 2 axle trailer. Finally the current TT listed below. Since 2001 I have had a beach house to visit. Traveling with any of those listed on or behind the truck on the same route at about the same speed the mpg would always be around 12. Never much above or below. Not more than 1 mph difference. I say this because I did it for years and had the same vehicle to compare. You would think the boat would get much better, it's wt. is less and profile much smaller even with the windshield and top than the TT. And with the AF990 truck camper I was taller than the TT. Others maybe different but, that's what I found happened. Highway speeds 55-60 when towing almost all the time.