Posted 2011-09-04 1:23 PM (#137228) Subject: Just one more thing- 3/4 ton is correct, right?
New User
Posts: 4
I have one more question. I'm pretty sure I know the right answer, but before I invest my money, I want to make sure.I'm buying a tow vehicle for a 2H Hawk with dressing room (weighs 3465lb empty). As I've said in prior posts, I expect to use tow about 2-4 times per month from late March until late October. Most trips are 1-2 hours each way. A couple will be 3-4 hours and 1 will be 15 hours each way). I'll probably drive it a couple times a week in the winter as we get a lot of snow and a 4x4 would be useful on some of those days. I'll also use it for home improvement projects.Is a 3/4 ton really the right truck? I don't want to sound like a wimpy woman, but here goes- they look so incredibly big- especially the newer ones. I've driven circa 2001 Chevy 2500 and 3500's as well as 2005 F250- all friends trucks- and the ones I've been looking at on the lots seem so much bigger. Do I really need a 3/4 ton? I'm happy to buy one if I do, but I don't want to overdo it if it isn't really needed for safety. But safety is the one thing I don't want to sacrifice to save a little money or space.Thanks again for your help-
Posted 2011-09-04 10:08 PM (#137238 - in reply to #137228) Subject: RE: Just one more thing- 3/4 ton is correct, right?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
If you want a safe reliable tow vehicle for a two horse trailer, a 3/4 ton will do well. You will quickly adapt to its size, and won't regret trying to make do with a smaller vehicle. Pulling a 2H with a 3.73 axle will not tax the drive train, and when you're not towing, the extra mileage is a bonus.
The 3/4 ton is stronger in every way over a half ton, its frame, brakes, suspension, axles, wheels etc are all upgraded. It's extra weight is caused by its heavier components. That will give you better stability, braking, carrying capacities, and handling while hauling loads. If you decide to upgrade your trailer in the future, many 3/4 ton trucks will easily pull GN trailers. You will then save money by not having to purchase a new truck as well.
Posted 2011-09-05 10:54 AM (#137243 - in reply to #137228) Subject: RE: Just one more thing- 3/4 ton is correct, right?
Expert
Posts: 2453 Location: Northern Utah
There are folks pulling 2H bumper pulls with 1/2 ton pickups every day. I think somebody commented on how great their new Ford F150 eccoboost pulled their new trailer recently in another thread.
A half ton won't have as strong of Frame, Brakes, cooling etc as a 3/4 or 1 ton truck. You will have to look at where you will be driving, how steep the mountain roads are and see if you would need additional brakes. If you live in state that is fairly flat, you could get by with the 1/2 ton. If you ever think you want to upgrade trailers to a GN, to more horses or to a LQ, You will need to also upgrade the pictup. Some folks buy a truck and drive it till it dies, Others don't think twice about changing equipment as their needs change.
Just one more thing- 3/4 ton is correct, right?
