using a friend's 2500 to tow

[MJM-NY]

So after doing a bunch of reading and research (and tips from people here!) for my Laredo TT that comes in around 8,000lbs fully loaded I am not going to tow my trailer this weekend with my RAM 1500 (only 1,300lb payload). Instead I am using my friend's 2500 GMC diesel that has over 2,300 lbs of payload.

My question is, can I just put my WD hitch on his truck? I measured the 2 trucks and his sits 1" higher than my 1500....TIA!!

[chuckster57]

You should be fine. What brand W/D?

[flybouy]

I'd give you one peice of advice before towing, prepare your wallet, you'll most likely start looking at trading in that 1\2 Ton.

[MJM-NY]

I believe it's an e2 wd hitch...

It's funny you mention a new truck after towing with the 2500, my friend said the same thing!! My lease on my 1500 is up in May and I'll look at 2500's then, until then I have full use of his 2500, thankfully!

[mazboy]

you can always get the 5.7 engine and stay with the 1500.

[xrated]

you can always get the 5.7 engine and stay with the 1500.

So a bigger motor AND even LESS PAYLOAD???? Really?

[sourdough]

you can always get the 5.7 engine and stay with the 1500.

Having owned and towed with 2 Ram 1500 5.7s I can attest that the 3/4 ton is by far a better choice for an 8000 lb. trailer.

[travelin texans]

Comparing the 1500 gasser to the 2500 diesel is not a fair comparison, its night & day.

[rhagfo]

I'd give you one peice of advice before towing, prepare your wallet, you'll most likely start looking at trading in that 1\2 Ton.

X2!
Will DW be with you in the TV? hope so as the sell to move from a 1/2 ton gasser to a 3/4 to 1 ton diesel will far easier!!!

[MJM-NY]

my 2016 RAM 1500 does have the 5.7 hemi, plenty to tow with just not enough payload for my TT. With that said, what are pros/cons of going with the new Ford F150 with the HDPP (heavy duty payload package) instead of the 3/4 ton truck? I believe the HDPP would get me close to 2,000lbs payload in a 1/2 ton truck. The reason i ask is this truck is also my daily driver.

My calculations put me around 1,800lbs of needed payload capacity. max 8,000lb trailer * 13% = 1040 hitch weight, 550 lbs of occupants and say 200lbs of bikes, etc.

[MJM-NY]

i don't think i would go with diesel tho due to more upfront costs and maintenance, if I have to go 3/4 ton i'm thinking it would be a gas 6.7L?

[rhagfo]

i don't think i would go with diesel tho due to more upfront costs and maintenance, if I have to go 3/4 ton i'm thinking it would be a gas 6.7L?

Gas would be 6.4 for a Ram, 6.0 for a GM and 6.2 for a Ford.

If you don't want a diesel, don't borrow the friends truck.

[MJM-NY]

i don't have any options except his diesel to use for next week's camping trip, unless I stay with my 1500, which i don't want to do. I have been duly warned that I will want a diesel after towing with it though!

[travelin texans]

I agree on the upfront cost, depending on what kind of wheeler dealer you may be or new vs used, but have yet to notice any increased maintenance cost.
We've driven 2 different 1 ton duallys as daily drivers since Jan '05, so far 300k+ with half or more of that towing a 16k 5th wheel with no significant maintenance cost. Each of mine were in the shop only once due to warranty or recalls
Oil changes at 7.5-10k miles or once a year at $59-89 depending on coupons or specials, the gasser is every 3-5k at $30 depending on whether you do it yourself or dealer. Most other maintenance items such tire rotations the gassers will need as well.
If your talking about the DEF, that's about $12+/- every 3-3.5k miles, which won't break the bank.
This is on my 2 GMCs, other brands may vary.
In my opinion if you towing a heavy rv regularly with a gasser the maintenance cost on it will substantially increase on rearends, transmissions, cooling system due to running at much higher rpms to get to the power of the gas engine. Plus for towing there's no comparison between gas or diesel, diesel is made for towing.

[bob91yj]

I'm a diesel truck owner ('06 GMC), and I love my truck...having said that if I was only towing occasionally and had no other real reason for an HD truck, I think I'd go with a gas engine. I'm a Baja traveler and with the new emissions systems that throw diesel's into limp mode for any number of reasons they just wouldn't work for me.

[RoscoeV]

I wouldn't look at a 1500 period. If you do, you will kick yourself WHEN you want to upgrade to a bigger TT or 5th wheel.

[travelin texans]

I'm a diesel truck owner ('06 GMC), and I love my truck...having said that if I was only towing occasionally and had no other real reason for an HD truck, I think I'd go with a gas engine. I'm a Baja traveler and with the new emissions systems that throw diesel's into limp mode for any number of reasons they just wouldn't work for me.

My '13 has 123k on it & has never went into limp mode.

[rhagfo]

i don't have any options except his diesel to use for next week's camping trip, unless I stay with my 1500, which i don't want to do. I have been duly warned that I will want a diesel after towing with it though!

Please report back after you complete the Weekend!!:D

[MJM-NY]

i def will, thanks for all the help and info!!

[bob91yj]

My '13 has 123k on it & has never went into limp mode.

I work at a Chevy dealership, I've seen it too often for me to risk it. My worst example of it all going horribly wrong... I had a customer that towed a boat to Cabo San Lucas, he made it back to Guerro Negro on the way home and his truck went into limp mode...$3000 tow and a 1200 mile road on the back of a Mexican tow truck later, he got the truck to me.

For whatever reason, the locals can't buy diesel pick-up trucks in Mexico, so there is virtually ZERO support/parts for them in Baja.

Like I said, I love my truck, damn thing pulls like a freight train.

[sourdough]

IMO skip the 1/2 ton trucks....all of them. None of them, including the Ford, are really built as a "tow" truck. With an 8000 lb. trailer you are beyond the ability of a 1/2 ton to be able to tow well IMO. Look to the 3/4 tons.

You mentioned that it is your daily driver and implied (to me) that you didn't want a 3/4 ton because of that. Why? Believe me, I was in your shoes as some on the forum can attest and would NOT go to a 3/4 ton because of my perceptions of ride (I had a bad back), parking, etc. I wanted a better, safer towing experience so bit the bullet and got the HD 3/4 ton. At first I thought it was a spine cracker, but now I wouldn't change for the world and plan on getting a 1 ton next go round. I don't ever want a 1/2 ton for towing an RV of any size again. Now, if all I did was throw a washing machine in it or something a 1/2 ton would be fine.

Gas vs diesel. Your trailer isn't large enough for you to "need" a diesel. Is it the final size you will have? Do you have a growing family? If so, those are considerations you need to think about when you get the truck. Larger trailer many times means larger truck to be safe. If there isn't a possibility of going larger (REALLY think about that because so many do upgrade) then go with the gas engine if you think it will work. I pull my trailer (about 9400 loaded) with my Ram 6.4L gas and it does a very good job. Would a diesel do better? Yes, but at a significant cost. Does the 6.4L with this trailer make me want a diesel? No. IMO a diesel becomes a mandatory engine ("tool") when you exceed 10-11,000 lbs. It will work a gas engine too hard if you travel in any mountainous areas routinely.

Good luck on your choice(s). You can't go wrong with any of the big 3 diesels. If you decide on a gas engine realize the GM option 6.0 gives up 50 or so lbs. of torque to the Ram and Ford engines last I looked.

[JRTJH]

I work at a Chevy dealership, I've seen it too often for me to risk it. My worst example of it all going horribly wrong... I had a customer that towed a boat to Cabo San Lucas, he made it back to Guerro Negro on the way home and his truck went into limp mode...$3000 tow and a 1200 mile road on the back of a Mexican tow truck later, he got the truck to me.

For whatever reason, the locals can't buy diesel pick-up trucks in Mexico, so there is virtually ZERO support/parts for them in Baja.

Like I said, I love my truck, damn thing pulls like a freight train.

The OP is from Owego, NY, about as far from Mexico as he can get and still be in the CONUS. Chances of him needing support/parts in Baja are pretty slim. I know what you're saying, but in this situation, he likely will never have to worry about that concern... And I agree, all 3 diesels "pull like a freight train"....

[Javi]

The OP is from Owego, NY, about as far from Mexico as he can get and still be in the CONUS. Chances of him needing support/parts in Baja are pretty slim. I know what you're saying, but in this situation, he likely will never have to worry about that concern... And I agree, all 3 diesels "pull like a freight train"....

I'm pretty darn sure I won't be worried about part & service of nothing in Mexico or anywhere west of the Rockies.. I don't fit in over there...:D

[MJM-NY]

@ sourdough, i have never had a 2500 truck as i've never needed one, so really the main issue is just lack of experience with the bigger truck. I'm sure that will change quickly once I start driving one and get used to the bigger footprint. I don't expect getting larger campers as my family shouldn't be growing any more!! I have 6 & 7 year old boys and 1 14 yr old daughter, so the 33' bunkhouse is perfect for us.

It will be interesting to see the lease payment difference in a 2500 vs a 1500 and I'm sure I'll be going with gas just for ease of use.

[2dtbird]

I used to pull with a gas 5.7 and 6.0 Chevy Gasser (GM), did they pull the load, of course they did. However, with the engine revving at 4K rpms I thought they were going to blow up. Bought my first diesel in 2015, a Ram 2500 4x4 crew cab 6.7 (shouldn't have stopped at the dealer lol). Towed new 8K lb trailer over Mont Eagle in Tennessee at 65 - 70 mph at 1900-2000 rpm. Purred like a kitten passing 18 wheelers. On the plus side my diesel gets better mpg then either of my gassers. 17 around town and 23-24 hwy. I personally will never go back to gas for towing. I wish you luck on either one you choose and safe travels.

[flybouy]

If your boys are anything like our grandsons you'll need extra payload capacity to carry the food for them. :)

[mfifield01]

I didn't see a year for the truck you will be using. Diesel engines before 2005/2006 didn't have the power they do today.

[MJM-NY]

i believe its a 2016 or somewhere close.

[Badbart56]

Once you pull it with that friend's diesel you won't want to go back to a gas engine, 3/4 ton OR 1500. There's just no comparison. The diesel pulls effortlessly. The gas engines will be screaming going up hills. My F350 seldom has to downshift on moderate hills pulling 17000 lbs. Diesels move the load with torque, low rpm torque. Gas engines are lucky to have half the torque todays diesels have. Can't wait to hear how your trip goes! Enjoy!

[sourdough]

@ sourdough, i have never had a 2500 truck as i've never needed one, so really the main issue is just lack of experience with the bigger truck. I'm sure that will change quickly once I start driving one and get used to the bigger footprint. I don't expect getting larger campers as my family shouldn't be growing any more!! I have 6 & 7 year old boys and 1 14 yr old daughter, so the 33' bunkhouse is perfect for us.

It will be interesting to see the lease payment difference in a 2500 vs a 1500 and I'm sure I'll be going with gas just for ease of use.


I always drive 4 wheel drive vehicles. Moving from a 4x4 1500 to a 4x4 2500 isn't much difference. Depending on what you get you WILL have a harder time parking but you will quickly figure out what you can and can't get into. It sits higher but I like that. Other than that it's just like driving your 1500 so don't even worry about it. After you have it a couple of days it will feel natural to you.

[Tufelhunden]

my 2016 RAM 1500 does have the 5.7 hemi, plenty to tow with just not enough payload for my TT. With that said, what are pros/cons of going with the new Ford F150 with the HDPP (heavy duty payload package) instead of the 3/4 ton truck? I believe the HDPP would get me close to 2,000lbs payload in a 1/2 ton truck. The reason i ask is this truck is also my daily driver.

My calculations put me around 1,800lbs of needed payload capacity. max 8,000lb trailer * 13% = 1040 hitch weight, 550 lbs of occupants and say 200lbs of bikes, etc.

I'll let you know after this weekend. I'm picking up a new trailer Cougar 27SABWE with a gross of 8800 pounds and reported tounge weight of 900#. I have the 3.5 Ecoboost and the HDPP with 1938 payload capacity. I'm going to load up the trailer and see how it does in the hills and dirt roads.

I like the eco as the power curve is similar to a diesel, it makes its torque at 1900 RPM.

[MJM-NY]

cool, i look forward to hearing your thoughts!!

[meaz93*]

All I can say is...my 2014 F150 Boost with the max tow /payload package (1 step down from the heavy duty 1/2 ton) pulls my 2018 Keystone Outback 328RL 38' 9k dry effortlessly & smoothly.....set cruise control-lol
Granted I have E rated truck tires; Hellwig rear swaybar, Loadlifter 5000 Ultimate air bags, tow tune, Raptor exhaust, etc...
Their is not a better 1/2 ton gasser that can touch the Ecoboost.
Boost has a diesel like torque curve and plenty of HP.
In fact I'll be towing up to Flagstaff AZ this weekend ( from 1100' to 7500' above sea level on 7% grades with ambient temps in the 100°+ region).
Truck is just a beast.
I'll pass a few Hemi (?) badged Rams, Tundras, Silverados, on my way up the hill and their pulling 24'-27'ers max.


18168

[bob91yj]

IMO it's the stopping power of the truck just as much as it is the ability to pull the trailer. Bigger truck usually equals bigger brakes, stronger transmission for downshifts and exhaust brake for diesels.

[sourdough]

All I can say is...my 2014 F150 Boost with the max tow /payload package (1 step down from the heavy duty 1/2 ton) pulls my 2018 Keystone Outback 328RL 38' 9k dry effortlessly & smoothly.....set cruise control-lol
Granted I have E rated truck tires; Hellwig rear swaybar, Loadlifter 5000 Ultimate air bags, tow tune, Raptor exhaust, etc...
Their is not a better 1/2 ton gasser that can touch the Ecoboost.
Boost has a diesel like torque curve and plenty of HP.
In fact I'll be towing up to Flagstaff AZ this weekend ( from 1100' to 7500' above sea level on 7% grades with ambient temps in the 100°+ region).
Truck is just a beast.
I'll pass a few Hemi (?) badged Rams, Tundras, Silverados, on my way up the hill and their pulling 24'-27'ers max.


18168


Just curious what the payload would be of your F150?

[meaz93*]

1900#'s w/ Max Trailer Tow Package

[CaptnJohn]

@ sourdough, i have never had a 2500 truck as i've never needed one, so really the main issue is just lack of experience with the bigger truck. I'm sure that will change quickly once I start driving one and get used to the bigger footprint. I don't expect getting larger campers as my family shouldn't be growing any more!! I have 6 & 7 year old boys and 1 14 yr old daughter, so the 33' bunkhouse is perfect for us.

It will be interesting to see the lease payment difference in a 2500 vs a 1500 and I'm sure I'll be going with gas just for ease of use.



Nothing easier to use than a diesel when pulling. Especially when needing fuel, just go in with the big boys.

[meaz93*]

1900#'s w/ max trailer tow package7650# gvwr

[travelin texans]

7650# gvwr

Towing a dry 9000# trailer???

[meaz93*]

All day.Towing a dry 9000# trailer???I am very close to my 17,100# GCVWR.
Like 250#'s.
Truck pulls and stops with no white knuckle road trips.
18169

[Gegrad]

I gotta ask, mileage towing that monster? I have heard good things about the Ecoboost's towing ability and power, but horror stories about fuel economy when towing, due to constantly having to be in the boost. Like the 10-15 people I have talked to have never reported more than 7 mpg (max), usually around 5 mpg when towing heavy loads. Yours? I can't imagine you will be getting much more than 5-6 towing 7% grades with that large trailer.

[meaz93*]

You know...its a truck, but I get anywhere from 8-10+ on an average after it's all said and done.
Obviously probably 3-4mpg while tackling those long 7-9% grades for miles on end, but than the flats hit and than the mileage creeps up .
You won't believe how it leaves the stop light under load .....pretty cool!

[meaz93*]

I've also talked to this cat who was filling up at a Lives Truck Stop... pulling a 29-30' 5th wheel with a Ram 2500 manual.
He told me most diesel pullers lie big time on their fuel mileage while towing-lol
7-10mpgs isn't bad at all for a heavy load.
Ohh but wait....get a tow tune and holy crap the whole dynamics of the truck change-5* & SCT Tuner.

[bob91yj]

The crazy part is over the road truckers get approx 5-6 MPG pulling 80,000 pounds.

I get 9-10 in my '06 Duramax pulling a 24' enclosed trailer that weighs 10-11,000#'s. I haven't towed my Outback 330RL far enough to know what I'll get with it. It's essentially the same trailer as meaz93*'s trailer, just a different floor plan.

[meaz93*]

Looked at that bad boy, and almost pulled the trigger....outside grill entertainment compartment. [emoji106]
We looked at Grand Design too, which is the spin off company of Keystone (a few CEO's jumped the fence and started their own business-lol)
Great trailers, but for the money you just can't be at the value of the Keystone....Outback!
And one of the most important details....AUTO LEVELING!18171

[meaz93*]

Just can't beat the value....is what I meant!

[66joej]

All I can say is...my 2014 F150 Boost with the max tow /payload package (1 step down from the heavy duty 1/2 ton) pulls my 2018 Keystone Outback 328RL 38' 9k dry effortlessly & smoothly.


WOW! I feel on the top edge pulling a 24' 5500# TT with a 2015 F150 (aluminium) with 5.0, LTs and 2040# payload.

[sourdough]

1900#'s w/ Max Trailer Tow Package



^^^And therein lies the problem for the OP vs your post. He already figures his payload requirements will be 1800#+ and is looking for a way to safely tow his rig and give him some breathing room, not just get a new truck and be maxed out right off the bat.

It appears you are comfortable running right at the limits of your truck and are very impressed by its towing abilities. Rest assured there are lots of trucks that perform as well....and better. As I said in a previous post, a 1/2 ton truck, any 1/2 ton, is not cut out for an 8000 lb. + trailer - they're just not built for that, no matter what a "maximum towing capability" advertisement may say.

[Badbart56]

Dang Danny, he has me ready to run down to the dealer and trade my measly 400 hp 800 ft/lb F350 on an Eco-boost!

Meaz93, are you a Ford salesman?

[rhagfo]

Dang Danny, he has me ready to run down to the dealer and trade my measly 400 hp 800 ft/lb F350 on an Eco-boost!

Meaz93, are you a Ford salesman?

Don’t forget he has modified the suspension bags and sway bar, and added a Five Star tune. It will be interesting to see how trans holds up.
To those that have never driven a torbo gas engine the response and power is something else.

[sourdough]

"Turbos" can do worlds for gas engine performance. Back when it always came with a cost; expense and unreliability. I had 2 Ford SVO products when they initially started offering their "turbo" engines. Great performance compared to other gas engines but don't, don't let the turbocharger or intercooler fail or be prepared to take out a 2nd mortgage on the house. Tried them, had too many shortcomings and decided there is no substitute for cubic inches. Diesel engines are another matter - apples and oranges. I'm sure Ford has perfected their designs by the reviews of EcoBoost owners, but having driven a 2017 2.7L EcoBoost for 2 weeks (rental) they are still plagued by some of the things I didn't like (lag for one).

[meaz93*]

I should be-lol
Just ask my wife!

[meaz93*]

Maybe the exception would be the new Titan 1/2 ton.... ERRR really 3/4 ton-frame & suspension.
But let's hook those 1/2 tons up and head for the elevations.....than well see who'd got the best 1/2 ton towable.

[meaz93*]

Titan 5.0 diesel that is....

[66joej]

"I had 2 Ford SVO products when they initially started offering their "turbo" engines."


Danny also had a few of these 2.3 screamers. Quite a car back in the middle 80s. Apparently built to compete with the Beamers back then. But like you noted don't have turbo issues $$$.

[Badbart56]

Bottom line is, at the end of the day, a half to is a half ton. They will never have the capabilities of their 3/4 and 1 ton brethren. For years I made do with half tons, and even some gas 3/4 ton trucks. After moving up to the diesels in the 90's it was pretty obvious what was lacking. Even those older diesels were more efficient than their gas counterparts. And while the new half ton diesels make sense economically, you have to understand they make a little less power than say a 2006 Ram 3/4 ton diesel. And common sense tells you that trying to pull and stop a 9000 lb. load with a less than 5000 truck isn't the best choice. I'll choose to err on the side of too much truck rather than too little. YMMV

[travelin texans]

For towing I'll stick to real truck 3/4 or more with towing not touring engine. As I've said before, let's here from someone that's towed that big rv 50-60k miles over hill & dale with that 3.6 & see how much of it's left.

[meaz93*]

For towing I'll stick to real truck 3/4 or more with towing not touring engine. As I've said before, let's here from someone that's towed that big rv 50-60k miles over hill & dale with that 3.6 & see how much of it's left.If your referring to my F150 "touring engine"-...well it's a 3.5L>lol
To each their own.
Take one for a spin sometime.
Get your popcorn ready....
18182

[sourdough]

If your referring to my F150 "touring engine"-...well it's a 3.5L>lol
To each their own.
Take one for a spin sometime.
Get your popcorn ready....
18182

I think travelin Texans was pointing out that the 3.5 Ecoboost will need some time to see what's going to happen with it when confronted with heavy towing in harsh conditions for lots of miles. Me, I'm not counting on it. They've perfected diesel engines pretty much. The Ecoboost is the only truck gas engine out there running dual turbos and Ford is trying to make a tiny motor with a "big engine" ability. We shall see. As I said, nothing substitutes for cubic inches.

I would encourage anyone that believes the ecoboost is the be all, end all of towing, to strap 10-12k (whatever Ford says their max tow is) on the back and tow it day in, day out, up hill and dale and see when it fails...because it will (run 50-60k). But wait, when it dies, it's not pistons, rings, crankshaft, valves etc. that you can tear down and replace; no, it will be turbochargers etc. that cost a FORTUNE to replace. To each their own but hey, I like good performance and simplicity. $5-8k of turbochargers sitting on top of the engine so the engine can "act" like a "real" V8 gas engine....that's for someone else. JMO/YMMV and it will.

[Old Mustanger]

"I had 2 Ford SVO products when they initially started offering their "turbo" engines."


Danny also had a few of these 2.3 screamers. Quite a car back in the middle 80s. Apparently built to compete with the Beamers back then. But like you noted don't have turbo issues $$$.

Had an '87 "Turbo Coupe" T-Bird with the 2.3. Loved that car but it kept breaking timing belts.

[Volator]

Do you want to be towing 'near your limits' I guess is the question. It's probably safer to have some breathing room vs. being at the limits.

That being said, you can do some things to make the experience better. You start with the wdh. You could add some bags to the back, ensure things are level, etc. But there's not much you can do about mass.

[Fredcook]

I have a 2017 ram big horn 5.7 i added 1000 pound air lift and i pull a 3030BH with no issues. Leaving tomorrow for destin which from here is going to be 12 hours. Yeah it isnt the best on. Fuel mileage but i have a buddy who has a 3/4 ton and pulls a 38ft fifth wheel and his isnt any better. I would not pull anything any bigger with it but we dont go long alls all the time roughly 3 hours or less, this is our first long pull. My neighbor has the same truck and he just made the same pull with no issues. As far as the truck goes it can handle and is rated to do so just a matter of what you want. Be safe and have fun

[Javi]

Like I've said many times... Today's 1/2 ton pickups are just cars with a very short bed... You couldn't pay me to haul a five thousand pound sail on the open road with one... A bass boat, a small trailer or a 4-wheeler trailer... sure

But for anything else I want a real truck with a real diesel motor.. I also don't use a pruning saw to cut down 50 foot tall oak trees.... it ain't that you couldn't... it's that it's just dumb :D

[TG10894]

Response to meaz93* : As a new trailer (21 RBS), truck F150 Eco with max tow, I was glad to see you post. At only ~ 6000 loaded the truck seems to have lots of power. I don't have any mods and wondered which of the extra's you listed seemed to be the best value for the $$.

[flybouy]

If your referring to my F150 "touring engine"-...well it's a 3.5L>lol
To each their own.
Take one for a spin sometime.
Get your popcorn ready....
18182

meaz93 I was a "no problem towing with my f150" guy years ago. Yes the truck would pull, yes the truck would stop, and yes one day just after cresting a mountian a semi blew by going the opposite direction just as the wind whistling thru the cut thru caught or rig. Didn't wreck but I think we were on 2 wheels before I wrestled it back. Shortly after that someone rear ended and totaled our Durango. The opprotunity to replace it with a 250 deisel and what a difference! What a fool I was for convincing myself that towing a 35 1/2' trailer was ok with a 1/2 ton. I hope when your day comes you will be fortunate enough to be able to control the situation and not become an organ donor. I've had idiots cut me off causing sudden lane changes, wind gusts exceeding 40 mph, and other defensive driving manuvers that have ended with a "thank God THAT just happened in a 3/4 ton truck". Just relating my experiences, but I will tell you from my experience when I see a driver pushing the limit either in weight or speed I back off and give them space. I have nothing to prove and just hope they learn before hurting someone. Remember when you were a kid and did dumb stuff that you reflect on later in life and think how did ever survive that? Well, you'll hopefully look back on this years from now and say the same thing. All I'm saying is I've been there and I'm not too proud to say I was wrong.

[sourdough]

I have a 2017 ram big horn 5.7 i added 1000 pound air lift and i pull a 3030BH with no issues. Leaving tomorrow for destin which from here is going to be 12 hours. Yeah it isnt the best on. Fuel mileage but i have a buddy who has a 3/4 ton and pulls a 38ft fifth wheel and his isnt any better. I would not pull anything any bigger with it but we dont go long alls all the time roughly 3 hours or less, this is our first long pull. My neighbor has the same truck and he just made the same pull with no issues. As far as the truck goes it can handle and is rated to do so just a matter of what you want. Be safe and have fun


With a gvw of 9730 and 35' of sail I can tell you that your Ram 1500 5.7 Bighorn does not pull it without any issues. I pulled mine, running lighter than that with a Ram 1500 Lone Star (same thing as the Big Horn) 5.7L with AirLift 1000 bags, LT tires and Bilstein shocks, and yes, when I had it I said there were no issues and dealt with how it handled. Put a 3/4 ton in front of the trailer vs the 1/2 ton and ….. no comparison - you CANNOT upgrade a 1/2 ton to a HD truck with "add ons". As one of our members said; "you don't know, what you don't know".

[meaz93*]

I'm sure when and if the time comes I will move up to a oil burner, but for the time being this truck trailer setup works great.
I'm not a newbie to towing and have done so with this truck for 4yrs.
Last trailer was a 2010 Keystone Springdale 291KSSR...33' 8k loaded.
No problem.
With a good WDH & Sway Control the truck just pulls it smoothly.
60-65mph with cruise control and all is right with the universe.
Yeah their are nobb drivers all over it seems as soon as you hit the road with trailer in tow?
Heading up to Flagstaff AZ this weekend....cheers!18185

[Fredcook]

Yes i agree that a 3/4 ton truck and a Diesel engine would be a better fit. All i was stating was that mine does it just fine, sure it will sway in the wind and ramp up the rpms on the inclines but all in all it does a good job. And yes we will most likely upgrade in a few years but for no longer pull than we do and a long one every other year it all works. There is a lot of good knowledge on here for sure. Everyone be safe out there.

[Tufelhunden]

"Turbos" can do worlds for gas engine performance. Back when it always came with a cost; expense and unreliability. I had 2 Ford SVO products when they initially started offering their "turbo" engines. Great performance compared to other gas engines but don't, don't let the turbocharger or intercooler fail or be prepared to take out a 2nd mortgage on the house. Tried them, had too many shortcomings and decided there is no substitute for cubic inches. Diesel engines are another matter - apples and oranges. I'm sure Ford has perfected their designs by the reviews of EcoBoost owners, but having driven a 2017 2.7L EcoBoost for 2 weeks (rental) they are still plagued by some of the things I didn't like (lag for one).

A Ford turbo is $1000 and an intercooler is $300. Now the new turbo also have an electric oil pump to keep oil flowing whole it spools down after the engine is shot off. This is not the old SVO or turbo birds systems. Wouldn't consider that second mortgage territory for am engine that eats every v8 in its class with power, where is needed.

[sourdough]

A Ford turbo is $1000 and an intercooler is $300. Now the new turbo also have an electric oil pump to keep oil flowing whole it spools down after the engine is shot off. This is not the old SVO or turbo birds systems. Wouldn't consider that second mortgage territory for am engine that eats every v8 in its class with power, where is needed.


Hmmm....

Here's a post from an unlucky ecoboost owner from another forum. Sounds like he's out a lot more than $1000 or so;

"I have a 2012 F150 4x4 Ecoboost 3.5 Platinum. I bought it last year used, with 100k miles and have never owned such a nice vehicle. I was driving home from work yesterday when I heard a loud bang followed by lots of smoke. A little icon of a wrench lit up on the display. At first I thought I blew a tire because the truck was shaking so bad, but I pulled into a side street and cut the engine because smoke was coming from under the hood. The truck has just over 124k miles on it now.

I had heard people having trouble with the turbos, so I thought maybe the right hand one blew. There was a lot of oil dripping down. Called tow truck and hauled it over to Ford to take a look. Got a call this morning that the engine had blown. They could have me running by next week and could finance the repair if I wanted...So worried, I asked how much, they said $14,900 more/less with taxes. I only paid $22k for the Truck to begin with, so there is no way on this planet I can put that into the truck.

I called around and found reman motor for about $6k, but they don't come with the turbos, and Ford said mine were now full of oil, not sure if that would make them unusable or not.

I found a pull from a salvage yard, 74k miles with turbos still on it for $3300 +300 core. I have replace an engine back in the day on my old 1992 f150 and it wasn't too difficult, but under the hood of this beast is a whole different story, not even sure where to start. Guessing a Hanes or Chilton might have R&R information in it.

So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."

[Javi]

https://www.autozone.com/external-engine/turbocharger-oe-replacement/ford/f150

Wouldn't own one... but here ya go...

[Tufelhunden]

Hmmm....

Here's a post from an unlucky ecoboost owner from another forum. Sounds like he's out a lot more than $1000 or so;

"I have a 2012 F150 4x4 Ecoboost 3.5 Platinum. I bought it last year used, with 100k miles and have never owned such a nice vehicle. I was driving home from work yesterday when I heard a loud bang followed by lots of smoke. A little icon of a wrench lit up on the display. At first I thought I blew a tire because the truck was shaking so bad, but I pulled into a side street and cut the engine because smoke was coming from under the hood. The truck has just over 124k miles on it now.

I had heard people having trouble with the turbos, so I thought maybe the right hand one blew. There was a lot of oil dripping down. Called tow truck and hauled it over to Ford to take a look. Got a call this morning that the engine had blown. They could have me running by next week and could finance the repair if I wanted...So worried, I asked how much, they said $14,900 more/less with taxes. I only paid $22k for the Truck to begin with, so there is no way on this planet I can put that into the truck.

I called around and found reman motor for about $6k, but they don't come with the turbos, and Ford said mine were now full of oil, not sure if that would make them unusable or not.

I found a pull from a salvage yard, 74k miles with turbos still on it for $3300 +300 core. I have replace an engine back in the day on my old 1992 f150 and it wasn't too difficult, but under the hood of this beast is a whole different story, not even sure where to start. Guessing a Hanes or Chilton might have R&R information in it.

So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."
They saw him coming. But as far as replacing your self. It appears to be an easy job as the turbo sit right on top of the engine. At the price they wanted I'd get the aftermarket turbo that have a much larger impeller.

Here's a link for the tear down on the driver's side. Not much there to remove. The alternator on my focus was harder.

http://www.morepowertuning.com/images/F150-Ecoboost-DriverSide-Turbo.pdf

[bob91yj]

My biggest concern with a blown turbo would be whether pieces of the impeller were sucked into the engine, that would make the repair much more difficult than a simple turbo replacement.

I think I'd stick with a stock size turbo as well, Ford engineers spent a lot of time, money, and effort designing the engine/turbos. If you're building a drag/race truck that's different. For what we use our trucks for I'm more interested in reliability than I am a slight horsepower increase at 6,000 RPM, not to mention more turbo lag.

[Badbart56]

Hmmm....

Here's a post from an unlucky ecoboost owner from another forum. Sounds like he's out a lot more than $1000 or so;

"I have a 2012 F150 4x4 Ecoboost 3.5 Platinum. I bought it last year used, with 100k miles and have never owned such a nice vehicle. I was driving home from work yesterday when I heard a loud bang followed by lots of smoke. A little icon of a wrench lit up on the display. At first I thought I blew a tire because the truck was shaking so bad, but I pulled into a side street and cut the engine because smoke was coming from under the hood. The truck has just over 124k miles on it now.

I had heard people having trouble with the turbos, so I thought maybe the right hand one blew. There was a lot of oil dripping down. Called tow truck and hauled it over to Ford to take a look. Got a call this morning that the engine had blown. They could have me running by next week and could finance the repair if I wanted...So worried, I asked how much, they said $14,900 more/less with taxes. I only paid $22k for the Truck to begin with, so there is no way on this planet I can put that into the truck.

I called around and found reman motor for about $6k, but they don't come with the turbos, and Ford said mine were now full of oil, not sure if that would make them unusable or not.

I found a pull from a salvage yard, 74k miles with turbos still on it for $3300 +300 core. I have replace an engine back in the day on my old 1992 f150 and it wasn't too difficult, but under the hood of this beast is a whole different story, not even sure where to start. Guessing a Hanes or Chilton might have R&R information in it.

So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."

Yeah, my buddies at the dealer said they run like a scalded dog. Until they break. Then it's, "Bring lots of money". One of the guys I work with bought a new 2016. It's nice, runs strong. But I agree, pushing small engines to the limit will bring consequences in the long run.

[Freeheel4life]

Hmmm....

Here's a post from an unlucky ecoboost owner from another forum. Sounds like he's out a lot more than $1000 or so;

"I have a 2012 F150 4x4 Ecoboost 3.5 Platinum. I bought it last year used, with 100k miles and have never owned such a nice vehicle. I was driving home from work yesterday when I heard a loud bang followed by lots of smoke. A little icon of a wrench lit up on the display. At first I thought I blew a tire because the truck was shaking so bad, but I pulled into a side street and cut the engine because smoke was coming from under the hood. The truck has just over 124k miles on it now.

I had heard people having trouble with the turbos, so I thought maybe the right hand one blew. There was a lot of oil dripping down. Called tow truck and hauled it over to Ford to take a look. Got a call this morning that the engine had blown. They could have me running by next week and could finance the repair if I wanted...So worried, I asked how much, they said $14,900 more/less with taxes. I only paid $22k for the Truck to begin with, so there is no way on this planet I can put that into the truck.

I called around and found reman motor for about $6k, but they don't come with the turbos, and Ford said mine were now full of oil, not sure if that would make them unusable or not.

I found a pull from a salvage yard, 74k miles with turbos still on it for $3300 +300 core. I have replace an engine back in the day on my old 1992 f150 and it wasn't too difficult, but under the hood of this beast is a whole different story, not even sure where to start. Guessing a Hanes or Chilton might have R&R information in it.

So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."

Sounds like his real mistake was taking it to the dealer. Unless it pumped all its oil into cooler, thru the cooler, into the intake and hydrolocked a cylinder, or it blew out so much oil it ran internals metal to metal I have a hard time believing it needed a new engine. Hard telling not knowing but I think his dealer just wanted to stick him.
That being said I will say what others have. I have towed some 8k+ boats with the bosses bagged ecoboost and it pulls like an ox. Would I want to travel farther than across town like that, not me. Our sales guy just got smart and ditched his f150 (5.4L) for a 17 F250(6.7L) and is loving the change as our boats just keep getting bigger.

[travelin texans]

The company I worked for leased Ford pickups, from inline 6s to V10s, in my case 30 years worth. At 120k we ordered new ones, the problem was most couldn't/wouldn't make it that far, about 80k was average. I had one that made it to 110k, but they still had to tow it off as it didn't run & the leasing was tired of spending money on it to get it that far. My point is if that guy got 124k out of a souped up V6 he should count his lucky stars. At 124k a diesel engine is almost broke in.

[Gegrad]

Hmmm....


So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."

I think this is the most critical portion of this. If he bought a slug that the original owner changed the oil twice in 100k and did zero other maintenance (not uncommon) then this is not the least bit surprising. Would be the same if this was a diesel. That's the problem with buying an older high mileage truck- no idea what the previous owner did/didn't do. The moral of this one should be: For towing either buy new or very gently used so you know the maintenance history. Then drive it for a long time. You will spend far less in the long run. Unfortunately he cheaped out to save a few bucks and he got what he paid for.

[maccam1]

Towing my 2018 cougar 1/2 ton with a 2016 Silverado 5.3,have no problems,started looking into the new 2019 Silverado 1500 yesterday,as my lease will most likely be traded in dec,the 2019 has a towing capacity of 14,000 lbs,waiting to see them on the sales lots within the next few weeks,to decide if to go that direction or invest in a new2018 2500,which I really don't want the payments for

[sourdough]

Towing my 2018 cougar 1/2 ton with a 2016 Silverado 5.3,have no problems,started looking into the new 2019 Silverado 1500 yesterday,as my lease will most likely be traded in dec,the 2019 has a towing capacity of 14,000 lbs,waiting to see them on the sales lots within the next few weeks,to decide if to go that direction or invest in a new2018 2500,which I really don't want the payments for

Forget the "towing capacity" it's just hype. Look to the numbers that matter; gvw, gawr, truck weigh and payload of tow vehicle; gvw of trailer and tongue/pin weight. You will not find a 1/2 ton that can meet all (any) of their weight limitations with a 14,000 lb. trailer strapped to it.....except in an advertisement....or that one off truck the manufacturer keeps in a warehouse somewhere. Provide the model of your trailer and I'm sure you will get some thoughts.

[66joej]

maccam1 I think that 14K might be GCWR for the new truck.

[Gegrad]

Forget the "towing capacity" it's just hype. Look to the numbers that matter; gvw, gawr, truck weigh and payload of tow vehicle; gvw of trailer and tongue/pin weight. You will not find a 1/2 ton that can meet all (any) of their weight limitations with a 14,000 lb. trailer strapped to it.....except in an advertisement....or that one off truck the manufacturer keeps in a warehouse somewhere. Provide the model of your trailer and I'm sure you will get some thoughts.

I do think he meant 14,000 GCWR. My 2013 has a 14,500 GCWR too, so that would not be surprising.

[sourdough]

I'll bet you guys are right. 14k behind a 5.3 is....well, it makes my eyes glaze. Thanks for putting me on the straight and narrow!:D

[Badbart56]

maccam1 I think that 14K might be GCWR for the new truck.

Agreed. The Chevrolet website claims the MAX configuration is 12,200 and it only has a 2100 lb. payload. That's the problem, so many folks have no idea what the numbers they're seeing mean.

https://www.jackburford.com/blog/2019-chevy-silverado-max-towing-and-payload/

[KSH]

Just had my oil and filter changed at the dealer on my ram 2500 cummins. $80. So, not too expensive.

[Javi]

Just had my oil and filter changed at the dealer on my ram 2500 cummins. $80. So, not too expensive.

That's about what I pay for a straight oil and filter change, rotate the tires and fill the DEF on my F350.. once a year and then once a year I pay $180 to also change both of the fuel filters, oil and filter, rotate tires and fill DEF.. So... $260 a year..

[notanlines]

We travel more than the average bear and have found that averaging Maine, Florida, Oregon, Wisconsin and probably Arizona the average oil and filter on the diesel is $99.00. I've never had it done anywhere but Ford so I can't quote anywhere else.

[flybouy]

That 3.5 Ecobost is such a towing monster than why don't they put it in the F 250 or F 350 trucks?Dang Danny, he has me ready to run down to the dealer and trade my measly 400 hp 800 ft/lb F350 on an Eco-boost!

Meaz93, are you a Ford salesman?

[meaz93*]

Here you go boys-lol.... in my "Touring Engine" F150 EcoBoost towing my 9k Outback from Scottsdale to Flagstaff!
One hand on the wheel with the AC blasting....and Sirus 70's playing>Beautiful....1820418205

[Badbart56]

What is your gear ratio? The reason I ask is my dually runs 1900 rpm at 70 mph with 3;73 gears. You may have a lower final drive transmission gear.

[meaz93*]

What is your gear ratio?3:73 4×4 Off Road Package
5687#>Truck Dry Weight

[maccam1]

Have to wait until next week to talk to my actual salesman,was talking to someone else at another dealership,not real sure he really knew what he was talking about...
Will keep posted

[sourdough]

Here you go boys-lol.... in my "Touring Engine" F150 EcoBoost towing my 9k Outback from Scottsdale to Flagstaff!
One hand on the wheel with the AC blasting....and Sirus 70's playing>Beautiful....1820418205

Well, Scottsdale to Flagstaff.....150-160 miles. 1300 ft. to 6300'? What's the grade.....2%?

I just watched a test of the ecoboost with a 10k trailer running the Eisenhower tunnel... it stayed floored and spinning up there with a normally aspirated gas engine, so....find a real hill. :D And, now why is it that that beast ecoboost isn't pulling the big loads in the HD trucks? Self destruction??:eek:

I travel with my trailer up and down the mountain to my my vacation home; 4000' to 9000' in 16 miles. You should put the ecoboost on something like that and see if it runs 1800 rpm...it won't - but send us a pic.

Just messing with you. You seem to be very enamored of the ecoboost; and it is, from accounts by owners that have spent the money for it, a powerful engine (for a 3.5L gas)....enhanced on "steroids" to act like a "real" towing motor. I think if you love it, go for it, but don't be misled thinking you have a real HD towing truck...you don't.

Edit: another way for anyone to know it's not an HD towing truck is you're running 49.8 lbs psi, with a 9k trailer. I'm assuming P rated tires??

Edit; here is a post from another forum on the grade of the route;

"This elevation change of about a mile in height over 125 miles in length works out to slightly less than a 1% grade on average the whole way.

[flybouy]

1% grade? LOL That's like what, a 5 mph headwind? :lol: I've driven roads in WV that are 8-9% grade for several miles. Let's hitch her up and see who's passing who. I'm thrilled that you love your truck and that it works out for you. Travel safe my friend, you only get one shot at life.

[rhagfo]

Well, Scottsdale to Flagstaff.....150-160 miles. 1300 ft. to 6300'? What's the grade.....2%?

I just watched a test of the ecoboost with a 10k trailer running the Eisenhower tunnel... it stayed floored and spinning up there with a normally aspirated gas engine, so....find a real hill. :D And, now why is it that that beast ecoboost isn't pulling the big loads in the HD trucks? Self destruction??:eek:

I travel with my trailer up and down the mountain to my my vacation home; 4000' to 9000' in 16 miles. You should put the ecoboost on something like that and see if it runs 1800 rpm...it won't - but send us a pic.

Just messing with you. You seem to be very enamored of the ecoboost; and it is, from accounts by owners that have spent the money for it, a powerful engine (for a 3.5L gas)....enhanced on "steroids" to act like a "real" towing motor. I think if you love it, go for it, but don't be misled thinking you have a real HD towing truck...you don't.

Edit: another way for anyone to know it's not an HD towing truck is you're running 49.8 lbs psi, with a 9k trailer. I'm assuming P rated tires??

Edit; here is a post from another forum on the grade of the route;

"This elevation change of about a mile in height over 125 miles in length works out to slightly less than a 1% grade on average the whole way.

Well Sourdough you seem to be full today, never driven from Scottsdale to Flagstaff have you!! We did about three weeks ago and there some very steep 7%+ grades for several miles. Not 7%+ the whole time but not less than 6%. That and the heat we did it was 110 to 115, we were in a car not towing.

[travelin texans]

Hmmm....

Here's a post from an unlucky ecoboost owner from another forum. Sounds like he's out a lot more than $1000 or so;

"I have a 2012 F150 4x4 Ecoboost 3.5 Platinum. I bought it last year used, with 100k miles and have never owned such a nice vehicle. I was driving home from work yesterday when I heard a loud bang followed by lots of smoke. A little icon of a wrench lit up on the display. At first I thought I blew a tire because the truck was shaking so bad, but I pulled into a side street and cut the engine because smoke was coming from under the hood. The truck has just over 124k miles on it now.

I had heard people having trouble with the turbos, so I thought maybe the right hand one blew. There was a lot of oil dripping down. Called tow truck and hauled it over to Ford to take a look. Got a call this morning that the engine had blown. They could have me running by next week and could finance the repair if I wanted...So worried, I asked how much, they said $14,900 more/less with taxes. I only paid $22k for the Truck to begin with, so there is no way on this planet I can put that into the truck.

I called around and found reman motor for about $6k, but they don't come with the turbos, and Ford said mine were now full of oil, not sure if that would make them unusable or not.

I found a pull from a salvage yard, 74k miles with turbos still on it for $3300 +300 core. I have replace an engine back in the day on my old 1992 f150 and it wasn't too difficult, but under the hood of this beast is a whole different story, not even sure where to start. Guessing a Hanes or Chilton might have R&R information in it.

So, have any of yall replaced the 3.5 ecoboost yourself? Im wondering if it is doable, and very interested in your thoughts. I didn't think a motor would blow after 124k miles, granted I didn't own it for the first 100k."

IMHO all who are towing heavy rvs regularly with the Eco Boost should read this, as I believe that will be the obituary of most of them & I don't think it'll take 124k.

[meaz93*]

Listen, until you have towed with a 5687# dry "Real Steel" 2014 F150 Boost.....I don't think you get it.
I roll into the campgrounds with Keystone Outback in tow and guys are amazed.
Truck is stable as hel*, but again E rated truck tires, (TT as well ) rear swaybar, airbags, tune, etc.., help immensely for sure
I don't expect you diesel guys to get it and I understand that.
I can unhook and have a pleasant daily driver as well.
Obviously I am at my max with a few hundred pounds to work with ....never a scary situation and within Ford towing specs.
But I also know that if I move up another 1k in weight I will most definitely need an oil burner-fact.
Truck is a blast.
You hook a 9k 38' bumper pull up to your Hemi 5.7, Tundra 5.7, Titan 5.6 or Chevy 6.2, than hit some inclines= 7% grades for a few miles towing in elevation....well see who gets up the hill first in one piece, and mpg's.

1821018211

[ctbruce]

Reading this, youd think we were already in dead winter suffering from cabin fever. Y'all need to get out and go camping.

For the record, I pull my Impact 312 with a stock '80 S10, P tires, no mods, and it pulls great. Stopping is a female dog, but what the hay, YOLO.

[sourdough]

Well Sourdough you seem to be full today, never driven from Scottsdale to Flagstaff have you!! We did about three weeks ago and there some very steep 7%+ grades for several miles. Not 7%+ the whole time but not less than 6%. That and the heat we did it was 110 to 115, we were in a car not towing.


Not really full of it. Just making an observation. I told meaz I was just messing with him. I've actually not come into Flagstaff from Scottsdale per se, but I've gone there from Sedona many times, which may or may not be the direction he goes in. I've also gone into/out of Flagstaff from Winslow/Holbrook, Kingman, Tuba City (89) and hwy. 180 to the Grand Canyon....most anyway and everyway to get in or out. Is there a hump there? Yep. Is it gargantuan? No. And I probably need to see the ecoboost pulling 9k+ up a 7% grade for miles at 64mph doing 1800 rpm with my own eyes. I've not seen it in any other test.

[flybouy]

What I have observed reading this lengthy post.....

The heavy - The diesel crowd towed with lighter gassers and claim diesel is better.

The lightweight - The light truck crowd, especially Ecoboast owners, have only towed with a light truck but say the heavy crowd don't know what they are talking about unless they try it.

I like to think that I'm a logical guy, try to put emotion behind fact but for the life of me this just doesn't compute.:banghead:
:popcorn:

[Badbart56]

Listen, until you have towed with a 5687# dry "Real Steel" 2014 F150 Boost.....I don't think you get it.

Listen, until you tow with an 8000# dry "Real Steel" dually with 400 hp and 800 ft/lbs with a 4700 payload capacity, that can pull a 21500 fiver.....I don't think YOU get it.


I think most everyone's point here is, YES, you CAN pull what you're pulling with that truck. But it's marginal and likely short lived in comparison to the 2500 and up diesel trucks. I know that's a sporty little truck, as I've ridden in one. It just appears you would be better served with a HD truck. If you had both trucks available and pulled with both of them you would understand what I mean. I moved up to this 6.7 from a dinosaur 7.3 and the difference was astounding. Try one, You'll understand

[meaz93*]

Don't doubt that for a minute.1821418215

[rhagfo]

Not really full of it. Just making an observation. I told meaz I was just messing with him. I've actually not come into Flagstaff from Scottsdale per se, but I've gone there from Sedona many times, which may or may not be the direction he goes in. I've also gone into/out of Flagstaff from Winslow/Holbrook, Kingman, Tuba City (89) and hwy. 180 to the Grand Canyon....most anyway and everyway to get in or out. Is there a hump there? Yep. Is it gargantuan? No. And I probably need to see the ecoboost pulling 9k+ up a 7% grade for miles at 64mph doing 1800 rpm with my own eyes. I've not seen it in any other test.

Then you also have never driven a gas turbo?
We had a PT Cruiser Rag Top with a 2.4 Turbo, and we suprised a lot of muscle cars off the line! Turbo gas acts a lot like a turbo diesel, just pays for it in fuel economy.

[KSH]

Listen, until you tow with an 8000# dry "Real Steel" dually with 400 hp and 800 ft/lbs with a 4700 payload capacity, that can pull a 21500 fiver.....I don't think YOU get it.


I think most everyone's point here is, YES, you CAN pull what you're pulling with that truck. But it's marginal and likely short lived in comparison to the 2500 and up diesel trucks. I know that's a sporty little truck, as I've ridden in one. It just appears you would be better served with a HD truck. If you had both trucks available and pulled with both of them you would understand what I mean. I moved up to this 6.7 from a dinosaur 7.3 and the difference was astounding. Try one, You'll understand8000 lb dually? Wow, my ram 2500 mega cab cummins is around 8200 lbs.

[Javi]

8000 lb dually? Wow, my ram 2500 mega cab cummins is around 8200 lbs.

My F350 dually XL with the 6.7 is about 7938 according to the sticker... payload is 6062

Now in reality it's a bit heavier as I drive it... and loaded to travel it'll top 9K before I drop the 2800 or so from the pin on it.. and let's not mention the 700 / 800 pounds of wood behind the hitch..

Try that with that 'boost... :D

[sourdough]

Then you also have never driven a gas turbo?
We had a PT Cruiser Rag Top with a 2.4 Turbo, and we suprised a lot of muscle cars off the line! Turbo gas acts a lot like a turbo diesel, just pays for it in fuel economy.

I've owned 2.

[Badbart56]

8000 lb dually? Wow, my ram 2500 mega cab cummins is around 8200 lbs.

Weighed it last month. With me and the toolbox it's 8880 lbs. So 8000 lbs is an off the cuff figure. I'm about 220 of those lbs.

[Msmith2054]

Sooooooo happy I found this thread!!! Needed something to fill my afternoon with NASCAR taking the weekend off. I may just get my bug light out and a six pack with this thread opened up on my big screen smart tv and be set all weekend!
Loving life towing my 6500 (dry) Laredo 291tg with my 2016 Silverado 5.3 rated for 9600 with my golf cart in the back (in a ramp system of my own design) and WD hitch getting 13.5 mpg hiway. LOL!
Ok, as someone earlier suggested, I’m going to get my camper, load it up, and head out to the lake for a week. C-ya!

There are ONLY 2 types of ships in the Navy! Submarines and targets!

[Badbart56]

So glad to do whatever small thing we can to keep you entertained. Have fun at the lake and don't drink too much beer.




P-3 Orion's, making life miserable for submarines since 1962.

[sourdough]

IMO when you see a chain, tug it!:lol:

[flybouy]

I'm gonna get me a 2012 Toyota Tundra and pull you all backwards u:lol:p hill!

[Gegrad]

Sooooooo happy I found this thread!!! Needed something to fill my afternoon with NASCAR taking the weekend off. I may just get my bug light out and a six pack with this thread opened up on my big screen smart tv and be set all weekend!
Loving life towing my 6500 (dry) Laredo 291tg with my 2016 Silverado 5.3 rated for 9600 with my golf cart in the back (in a ramp system of my own design) and WD hitch getting 13.5 mpg hiway. LOL!
Ok, as someone earlier suggested, I’m going to get my camper, load it up, and head out to the lake for a week. C-ya!

There are ONLY 2 types of ships in the Navy! Submarines and targets!

I call BS on 13.5 mpg with that config. My trailer weighs 200 lbs dry less than that and I DON'T carry a golf cart and don't get close to that. That smells like a super fish tale-you also probably catch a 25 lb bass every week, right?

You are also WAY over payload with a golf cart in the back. I am close without one.

[sourdough]

Sooooooo happy I found this thread!!! Needed something to fill my afternoon with NASCAR taking the weekend off. I may just get my bug light out and a six pack with this thread opened up on my big screen smart tv and be set all weekend!
Loving life towing my 6500 (dry) Laredo 291tg with my 2016 Silverado 5.3 rated for 9600 with my golf cart in the back (in a ramp system of my own design) and WD hitch getting 13.5 mpg hiway. LOL!
Ok, as someone earlier suggested, I’m going to get my camper, load it up, and head out to the lake for a week. C-ya!

There are ONLY 2 types of ships in the Navy! Submarines and targets!

Since I'm feeling my normal picky self; you scaled that yet? Remember "towing" ratings for a pickup mean nothing.

[sourdough]

Sooooooo happy I found this thread!!! Needed something to fill my afternoon with NASCAR taking the weekend off. I may just get my bug light out and a six pack with this thread opened up on my big screen smart tv and be set all weekend!
Loving life towing my 6500 (dry) Laredo 291tg with my 2016 Silverado 5.3 rated for 9600 with my golf cart in the back (in a ramp system of my own design) and WD hitch getting 13.5 mpg hiway. LOL!
Ok, as someone earlier suggested, I’m going to get my camper, load it up, and head out to the lake for a week. C-ya!

There are ONLY 2 types of ships in the Navy! Submarines and targets!

Had to quote this or it would have been surreal;

Towing an 8200 lb. trailer with a 5.3L Silverado with a golf cart in the back...and getting 13.5 mpg. :lol: Maybe this OP should read some weight specs off of some chart or do some manual mileage calculations??:)

[Gegrad]

Since I'm feeling my normal picky self; you scaled that yet? Remember "towing" ratings for a pickup mean nothing.

Of course he hasn't. There is no situation in the world where a 1/2 ton can tow a 6500 dry trailer AND carry a golf cart in the bed and not be massively overweight, even with some of Ford's heavy packages with 2100 lbs payloads.

Golf cart weights:
"They are generally around 4 feet (1.2 m) wide × 8 feet (2.4 m) long × 6 feet (1.8 m) high and weigh 900 pounds (410 kg) to 1,000 pounds (450 kg). Most are powered by 4-stroke engines. The price of a golf cart can range anywhere from under US$1,000 to well over US$20,000 per cart, depending on several factors."

[Gegrad]

Had to quote this or it would have been surreal;

Towing an 8200 lb. trailer with a 5.3L Silverado with a golf cart in the back...and getting 13.5 mpg. :lol: Maybe this OP should read some weight specs off of some chart or do some manual mileage calculations??:)

Yeah, that is laughable... or the OP badly failed math class and is multiplying when they should be dividing. :lol::lol:

[chuckster57]

IMO when you see a chain, tug it!:lol:



I like that!!!

[BadmanRick]

Unless you really need a Diesel truck and you are dedicated to Ram or Chevy or Ford I will put my Platinum Tundra up against all of them.
The big three Ford, Chevy and Ram got together with the government to set up a towing standards. The result was th J2807 Towing Standard.
“The maximum-claimed towing capacity of most pickup trucks is bull****. ... The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) wants to change that, with a standard test for measuring truck towing capacity called "J2807." The standard was written 2008, revised in 2010, and adopted by Toyota in 2013.” Toyota was the First to comply with the J2807 Standard. None of the big three were able to comply with the standards until 2016. My truck also has a flex fuel v8. GAS is normally cheaper than diesel. With flex fuel you can get gas anyware. Just my plug for Toyota.

[Msmith2054]

I remember P-3 Ops fondly. You guys were like a rabid dog that you could not shake off!

Once you finally found us. After we broached, turned our running lights on, and guided you in by periscope! LOL!

Peace, my lefty brother!

[Msmith2054]

Chuck, you are undoubtably a man of wisdom. And one that can read as well as comprehend what is read. Danny also, albeit to a lesser degree.

Everyone else, consider your chain jerked! Did you seriously not see the Lol! At the end of what I CLAIM to tow with my post? LOL!

Just having a little fun with all the “my stuff is better than your stuff” posters.

The only serious thing I posted is how I’m going to the lake this weekend. And yes, there will be beer. Heck, I might even go full Monty and put bait on the hook this time!

Keep on camping my bretheren of the campground. And tow safe until you get there.

[notanlines]

Somehow I just knew that post was made tongue in cheek.....kinda like the guy with the hot Toyota.

[Badbart56]

Chuck, you are undoubtably a man of wisdom. And one that can read as well as comprehend what is read. Danny also, albeit to a lesser degree.

Everyone else, consider your chain jerked! Did you seriously not see the Lol! At the end of what I CLAIM to tow with my post? LOL!

Just having a little fun with all the “my stuff is better than your stuff” posters.

The only serious thing I posted is how I’m going to the lake this weekend. And yes, there will be beer. Heck, I might even go full Monty and put bait on the hook this time!

Keep on camping my bretheren of the campground. And tow safe until you get there.



Yep. Soon as I saw you were a submarine sailor I knew there was a "Sea Story" coming! Bravo Zulu brother from down under!

And now you guys have P-8's to contend with from 30000 feet!

[meaz93*]

In the Toyotas defense-lol, :wink: at least I see those "1/2 tons" pulling at least a 27'- 29' TT.
Of course when I had my "1/2 ton" Titan (perf chip, headers, ram air, airbags, E range tires, etc....Toyota was the enemy (here kitty kitty)
In 04` Japan trucks were above and beyond the US ones.
Ohh, by the way I towed my Springdale 291KSSR all over AZ with that "1/2 ton", but had to hit around 4500rpm climbing up those 6-7% grades-lol
182391824118242

[Javi]

Anchor Clankers… :D

[Badbart56]

Anchor Clankers… :D


Not me! Never stepped on anything that floated.

[meaz93*]

Not me! Never stepped on anything that floated.That is an AWESOME pic! [emoji106]
My Pops was in the Navy, got out before the Korean War conflict.

[Rubicon100]

This thread is funny. I have two trucks, a 2012 4x4 heavily modified 5.3 and an 04 ram 4x4 long bed four door with the 5.9 Cummins and 4.10 gears. My trailer is usually around 6400lbs loaded for a long trip.
The half ton had absolutely zero problems with power pulling a 30ft trailer but I paid attention to payload and gross axles weights. I usually spend most of October and November at our hunting land and I always had to make two trips in the half ton because I like to hit the cat scales often and last fall I was so overloaded I was embarrassed. This year will be nice it'll be the first hunting season with the ram and I'm sure it's gonna be so nice taking the generator and enough wood all in the same trip. My trailer is an ultralight and the half ton was fully capable with zero problems until I wanted to take all of my hunting equipment and enough wood and extra water for a week or more at a time. I see way too many people who have never been over the scales bragging about how great they pull their camper with a half ton and their trailers are way bigger than mine. I don't understand how many people have never weighed what they are pulling, it's not that hard and it's definitely an eye opener. I'm sure I'll still pull with the Silverado occasionally but only if it's me for a short fishing trip. Hit those scales people, your not the only ones on the road. Thanks to sourdough and jrtjh last year I learned an awful lot about payload. Thanks guys. Dan edit to add chuckster and Javi. You guys helped me out alot.

[Nuke]

Not me! Never stepped on anything that floated.

Any airplane can be a submarine... once :)

[Badbart56]

But try as they may, no submarine can ever be an airplane.....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOqalX5FJ2c

[Javi]

My dad clanked anchors... he was aboard when this was taken and served the rest of the war aboard her...

[Msmith2054]

:bow:But try as they may, no submarine can ever be an airplane.....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOqalX5FJ2c

True, but it cannot be denied that there are way more airplanes on the sea floor than submarines in the sky!

[Badbart56]

It appears that we Airedales are far more persistent than you.....

[gkainz]

It appears that we Airedales are far more persistent than you.....

lol ... another airdale here - E-2 Hawkeye

[Tufelhunden]

Here is the follow up I promised. Towing a 27SABWE Cougar with full tanks to simulate max GVWR of the trailer, 8800 pounds. Using the Equal-i-zer 1000/10,000 WD hitch. The truck easily maintains speed up a 6% grade. In fact I was able to gain speed, so the engine is good to go. The rear shocks are seriously under dampened and will be replaced. The front was planted but I'll probably change those as well. Overall very easy with no issues. If I wss inn the market to replaced my truck, I'd probably get a 250. Since mine is new and it handled the load with one small issue, that's easily fixed, I'll stick with what I have.

[mikec557]

... Instead I am using my friend's 2500 GMC diesel that has over 2,300 lbs of payload...

MJM

Did I miss the result of your weekend trip? How did you like your friend's truck?

Signed
Inquiring Minds Want to know

[jc1444]

Who would want a Ford after pulling with a Ram????

[Tufelhunden]

Who would want a Ford after pulling with a Ram????

Someone that likes their transmission to work? :cool:

[bob91yj]

^^^^In that case they should get a GMC/Chevy with the Allison Transmission!:cool:

[JRTJH]

^^^^In that case they should get a GMC/Chevy with the Allison Transmission!:cool:

As long as doors that won't close and rattles don't bother you..... :whistling:

[mikec557]

But seriously, which is the better oil for my motorcycle? Penzoil, Valvolene, Amsoil? Don't mind me, I'm just lookin' for a pot to stir....

[fjr vfr]

But seriously, which is the better oil for my motorcycle? Penzoil, Valvolene, Amsoil? Don't mind me, I'm just lookin' for a pot to stir....


I use shell Rotella T-6 for both the Motorcycle and truck. :)

[flybouy]

MJM

Did I miss the result of your weekend trip? How did you like your friend's truck?

Signed
Inquiring Minds Want to know

After all of these replies he's probably scared to death to reply!!!!!!

[Msmith2054]

Shot this today towing my camper, but my math may be flawed. Picture of tonight’s 25lb bass to follow.

[flybouy]

that must have been a long hill you were going down.:hornets:

[JRTJH]

My diesel "makes fuel" when towing

[Msmith2054]

that must have been a long hill you were going down.:hornets:
Yep, I95 Southbound, which we all know is downhill in that direction. Look at any map.

[flybouy]

My diesel "makes fuel" when towing

How often do you have to drain off that tank?

[flybouy]

Yep, I95 Southbound, which we all know is downhill in that direction. Look at any map.

I try to avoid I95 south, I live north of Washington DC and I can't compete with the tall tails that emanate from Capitol Hill! I did go thru WV once and between Squash pushing the trailer and the Moth Man pulling the truck got great fuel milage:lol:

[Msmith2054]

I try to avoid I95 south, I live north of Washington DC and I can't compete with the tall tails that emanate from Capitol Hill! I did go thru WV once and between Squash pushing the trailer and the Moth Man pulling the truck got great fuel milage:lol:
I try to avoid that area as much as I can, unless I’m going through there around 2am. But when I must drive through, I do it with my eyes closed using passive sonar. 24 years on subs and it worked fine for me there.

[flybouy]

I try to avoid that area as much as I can, unless I’m going through there around 2am. But when I must drive through, I do it with my eyes closed using passive sonar. 24 years on subs and it worked fine for me there.

Traversing DC, especially NE DC at 2 AM, you might want to bring along some of the weaponry to! And thank you for your service.

[MJM-NY]

Attached is the pic on our way up near Syracuse, NY. it was a noticeable difference in towing and just felt more stable... While I probably won't lease a diesel I'm def going with a 3/4 ton truck when my lease is up. As discussed on this thread, I feel more safe with the 2500 vs 1500 with the family. I def notice that it's not as easy to maneuver the truck by itself vs my 1500, i.e. parking lots, turning radius, etc

[meaz93*]

Attached is the pic on our way up near Syracuse, NY. it was a noticeable difference in towing and just felt more stable... While I probably won't lease a diesel I'm def going with a 3/4 ton truck when my lease is up. As discussed on this thread, I feel more safe with the 2500 vs 1500 with the family. I def notice that it's not as easy to maneuver the truck by itself vs my 1500, i.e. parking lots, turning radius, etcListen, you have a pinch noise dive on the trailer...have you sinched up the WDH to bring it more level?
I have the ole Husky with a sway control bar added and of course Loadlifter 5000's.
In fact this trailer pulls better than my 7k dry brick 2010 33' Springdale!...and my Outback is 2k heavier as well as 5' longer.18310

[MJM-NY]

I didn't change anything from when the dealer set up the wdh for my 1500, the ball on the 2500 is 1" higher. So should I raise the bracket that is bolted to my trailer tongue?

[meaz93*]

I didn't change anything from when the dealer set up the wdh for my 1500, the ball on the 2500 is 1" higher. So should I raise the bracket that is bolted to my trailer tongue?I would raise it one. Check it out see how that works.

[MJM-NY]

Or do I raise the ball up one bolt hole?

[meaz93*]

I would start with the ball.

[guitarboy52]

Not a diesel guy, but, 2500HD over 1500 every time. Have 2018 Passport 2520RL, 5,000 dry, had 1500 silverado, traded up to 2500HD gasser, no comparison.