Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Can truck do this job?

[JLudwick]

Hi, I'm Jim. I have a 2000 Dodge 2500 automatic with deep dish transmission pan and external filter. It also has a Diabolo sport chip. We have towed a 31' lite weigh Jayco fifth wheel, 7600 lbs. without problem but now want to upgrade to an Eagle Jayco that is 32' and 11,200 lbs. We are concerned that the truck will have trouble handling the additional weight. What do you think? Can we do anything to our truck or do we need to shop for another truck?

 

[FFL8N]

First, welcome to the TDR!! Second, it will help if you fill out your truck signature so that everyone knows exactly what model, make, ect. , along with what modifications you have done to it, before they comment on a post.



Jim... I also had a 2000 2500, only mine had the stick. If you are not looking at pulling every hill in the rocky mountains at 90 mph you will be fine. If you do want a little something more out of your truck after pulling the trailer a few time, there are plenty of folks around here that will tell you what you can do to get a little more out of the truck... ... like maybe a transmission and torque converter As you can see from my signature that I still have yet to make this upgrade Careful though... once you start, it is hard to stop with the upgrades... .

 

[MChrist]

The pin weight of an 11,300# fifth wheel trailer may be at least 2000 lbs empty. It could be up to 2500 full of water/goodies. You may be over your rear axle weight rating. I would check that out before you buy.

 

[HBarlow]

You stated the Jayco 32' you are considering weighs 11,200 lbs. Is that dry weight from the brochure or information provided by a dealer?

The only weight that counts is the GVWR which is printed on the VIN tag of that trailer, somewhere in the area of front streetside. A fifthwheel trailer loaded for actual use is going to weigh very near GVWR. That is the weight you must consider when making a buying decision. Nobody tows one at dry weight, not even the transporter who hauled it from factory to dealer because "dry weight" does not include options and is always underreported.

Use GVWR multiplied by 20 to 25% to estimate pin weight. It may be too heavy for your truck.