Posted 2009-11-23 7:46 PM (#113546) Subject: RE: Which Truck Question?
Veteran
Posts: 108 Location: Dallas, TX
Hello,We are contemplating (haven't decided yet, still doing research) purchasing a gooseneck trailer and pick-up truck (both used). I found a Featherlite trailer that I like, it is a 3 horse with large DR, it weighs 4200 lbs. Can I use a 1/2 ton PU with a large V-8? Or do I have to go up to a 3/4 ton?I would rarely haul 3 horses but on long trips I'd use the extra stall for storage (hay/feed). Thanks!!Deirdre MarrDallas, TX
Posted 2009-11-23 11:10 PM (#113558 - in reply to #113546) Subject: RE: Which Truck Question?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Ditto on the 3/4 ton. Trailer, gear, two or three horses, full gas, quite a bit of pin weight for a 1/2 ton. Being able to pull the weight is quite different than carrying the weight.
As far as trucks go I'm looking at the Dodge Ram 1500 and the Ford F150, both with the largest V-8 they come with, I'm looking at used trucks. I'm also asking about the rear axle gear ratio, getting that info. is like pulling teeth! No one knows the answer!
Posted 2009-11-24 9:30 AM (#113568 - in reply to #113546) Subject: RE: Which Truck Question?
Expert
Posts: 1351 Location: Decatur, Texas
The first trailer is a Sundowner with this also in the add:
Dimensions & Weights are approximate.
Just guessing compaired to the trailers I have bought, sold and owned myself, I would think it would be safe to say that trailer is going to wieght closer to 6-lbs are a little more..... The second trailer you listed even beening a steel trailer will be closer to the 4-k to 4500lb mark.
Back to the truck, what year model are you interested in? Later model Ford 1/2 tons will come with a 5.4 engine and if you can find one with an actual trailer package installed it will have 3.55 gears or if your luck you might find one with 3.73 gears. Without a factory orderd tow package you will have a higher geared rear axle for better fuel mileage and poor towing performance. In the Later model Dodge trucks, there is VERY few with an actual "tow" package, but if you can find it they will have a 3.92 gear which would make a good towing gear. My opinion your best bet for either trailer you listed will be a 3/4 ton truck. Most will have 3.55 gears or the 3.73 weather they have a tow package or not.
Posted 2009-11-24 11:02 AM (#113573 - in reply to #113546) Subject: RE: Which Truck Question?
Veteran
Posts: 229
Dmarr, I pulled a 4,500 lb (unloaded weight) GN stock trailer with two horses and camping gear with an F 150 big straight six for years with no problem. However, as soon as I could scrape some money together, the first thing I did was step up for a 3/4 ton. Pulling a set up like I had with an F 150 is quite hard on the nerves. If you are looking to buy, I'd say definately get a 3/4 ton, preferably with a tow package. You won't regret it.
But if the 1/2 tons are not enough truck to pull even a 2-horse GN w/ dressing room then I guess I'll just stick with my current set-up.
I like the Brenderup, it's very roomy for the horses, VERY cool in the summer, it just doesn't have much storage. It has a small dressing room but there's no place to put hay/feed.
I'd love to have a trailer with a hay rack on top!
Posted 2009-11-24 4:04 PM (#113591 - in reply to #113546) Subject: RE: Which Truck Question?
Veteran
Posts: 229
Deidre, I have two deisel 3/4 tons. Even though they are more expensive to purchase and to maintain, I like them for towing. I'll let the guys chime in on what is considered high mileage, but 120,000 on a Cummins isn't anywhere near high mileage if the vehicle was maintained properly. I'd expect perhaps needing some front end work if it hasn't had any in it's life, but not engine work! I'd probably pass on the 2003 F250. If I recollect rightly, that was the first year of the 6.0. Also, if you are going truck and GN trailer, the long bed trucks will offer you more turning flexibility than the short bed trucks. You will probably like pulling a GN. I've pulled both GN's and BP's and much prefer the GN's. Don't get discouraged. There are many good bargains out there! It just takes a while.
Here is my opinion! I have been in the used car buisness and same location since 1983 and the last 6 years dealing mainly with 3/4 ton up trucks with diesel engine.
1) the first 1/2 Dodge you listed is HIGH and does not even have "tow" mirrors as stated in the listing. Yes that is low miles for that year model and really needs to be priced around 12-k or less.
2) The 3/4 Dodge shown would be a great set up for you, but knowing that dealer I would check the truck out really close. They have been known to buy trucks in need of major repair either engine or body, not saying this truck is one of them just take the time and check it out.
3) A great truck but also a little high for the year. This type of truck and mileage should be around a 9-k truck. But my opinion since it would be you 1st diesel, I would either buy a Ford with the 7.3 diesel or a Dodge with the 5.9 Cummins. The 6.0s are actually good engines, but had a bad wrap.
I know there is way to much to think about when buying a truck but take the time and make sure what you are buying and do not get in a rush.
RE: Which Truck Question?
