Toy towing question (trucks)

[Crighton]

I've recently come to the conclusion that my current truck a toyota tacoma just doesn't have enough tow capacity to haul all of my toys around. I'm looking to pick up a used truck or SUV with more tow capacity. Preferably a GMC or Dodge product as I get the family discount at the local service shop and dealer.

I've narrowed it down to about 6 options but I really don't know anyone that's owned any of them in the past. Anyone have any feedback on any of these models for towing about 5800lbs of trailer weight? Issues with reliability or common problems with specific models.


GMC
1500
Yukon
Seirra

Dodge
Ram 1500
Dakota SLT
Durrango

[warthog2t0]

how about the dodge with the viper moter in it. thats got to have enough.

[joez]

Depends on what you are towing? can you be more specific with what you tow?

[Crighton]

Mostly a Correct Correct Craft Ski Nautique w.308

Also like to be able to haul a 25 foot trailer and a smaller john deer tractor w. front loader. Currently I have to borrow a vehicle to tow either one. The tacoma's max tow cap is 3800lbs.

[SCpoloRicker]

Full size!

More is always better, right?

If towing is one of the main reasons for upgrading/buying a truck, I'd recommend getting *more* truck than you think you need.

2500 Dodge pickup from the last body style. Tons of ups, get the nasty turbo diesel.

I'd advise against the standard half ton truck. They are made and marketed towards "casual" truck users. Crap rear axle, crap gearing, engine is alright, but turbo diesel is better

Ricker

[Chris42050]

how about the dodge with the viper moter in it. thats got to have enough.

Yeah thats a cool truck. Last time I checked it was a 8 liter V-10 . Definataly capable. But it has to be horrible on gas mileage.

[mcveighr]

Get a Cummins Turbo Diesel. Thats a dodge, are you buying new or used?

The GM/Chevy 6.5L Turbo Diesels aren't as strong as the Cummins. But if you're buying new the Duramax Diesels are quite impressive, andhave plenty of power.

[Ityl]

A 1500 Sierra with the 4.8 or 5.3 V8 will haul what you need just fine. It is well within the tow specs. I would stay clear of Dodge because the reliability isn't very good imo.

[cphilip]

You need to give us GVW and tounge weight to be able to tell you.

Always "overtruck" for towing. And get a Diesel... Fuel cost savings for that oversize truck is phenominal.

And a Cummings is not a Dodge. Its a Cummings! Dodge does indeed buy them for their trucks though if thats what you mean.

The Powerstroke and the Duramax are both fine choices too. They each have thier little things but both are V8 Diesel so they are a bit better on acceleration. The Cummings is a I6 and a great little motor but a bit sluggish on acceleration. All fine choices depending on application. Then you just gotta decide what package you want around them. Ford, Chevy or Dodge.

[mcveighr]

And a Cummings is not a Dodge. Its a Cummings! Dodge does indeed buy them for their trucks though if thats what you mean.

I meant they have the contract for Dodge Diesels.

[PyRo]

When is the last time you saw an F250 or a blazer with a cummings? Most people get the idea that "get a cummings" = get a dodge.
And I fully agree, Ram 2500 or 3500

[mcveighr]

I have seen fords with cummins.

[gamarada717]

Take it from a guy from Arkansas. If you want a good truck that you can go muddin in and haul a boat or whatever, get a Z71. Best trucks out there, unless you're going to be doing some heavy heavy duty hauling, then I would agree with getting the dodge.

[PyRo]

Really, ford using cummings motors? Didn't know that.

[mcveighr]

Swapped Pyro.