I need your input

[prairiegopher]

I currently own a 2002 2500 4X4 laramie with auto trans cummins engine and 3:54 rear end. I purchased a larger/heavier 5th wheel and because of increased weights I am thinking of switching to a 2002 F-350 with auto trans, 7. 3 engine and 3:73 rear end. The trailer is approx 2200 lbs on the pin(loaded) and the combined weight is approx 19,000 lbs. Both weights are outside the rating for my truck, but within the rating of the one ton. I can't afford to step up to a new 3500 and a dually is too large for my garage. I really like my truck, but for safety sake I would make the switch. Has anyone towed with similar trucks and do you feel the Ford will do as good or a better job? I am also curious to hear what weights other people are pulling with a truck like mine. Thanks for taking the time to reply.

 

[JyRO]

Good question...

PrairieGopher - I have a 2500 4X4 with 3. 54's, same as you, except I have a 6 speed. I pull a 33' 5'er that weighs about 9,500 lbs or so ready to camp. Seems like I'm getting about 1,750 lbs. for pin weight, but regardless it puts me 160 lbs. to ~ 400 lbs. over my GVWR. When towing it feels very stable and safe. With my $610 worth of extra power, I easily have the power to tow comfortably (due to the 3. 54's). I'd probably been happy with the stock power if I had gotten 4. 10's.



Anyway, I feel like you are justified to go with the 1 ton Ford. I'd be justified as well, but I'm not spending (wasteing) the money trading up due to being 400 lbs. over GVWR. Especially when my truck is such a cream puff AND *PAID FOR*.



Honestly I think you may wind up a bit more satisfied with the Ford only because you currently have the 3. 54's combined with a slushbox. That's not a good combo for towing heavy, at least if the slushbox is stock. 3. 73's will be better. But towing any heavier than me (like you're doing) 4. 10's are the ticket.



My advice would be to find a good used 2nd gen Cummins Ram 3500 with 4. 10's (preferably a manual transmission, but that's the buyer's choice). But you said you didn't or couldn't have duals. But I've heard that if you can get the mirrors in, you can get the duals in. Just my $0. 02 worth. Let me know if you need change back.



- JyRO

 

[BV]

The over weight thing is a problem with most RV'ers so don't feel like your the only one.



I would look at the weights on your axles and tires then determine if it's something you can live with. IMHO the weak link in any pickup is the tires, brakes and transmission. The only thing you gain when going to a 3500 would be training wheels and heavier springs.



If your concerned about your gear ratio, then change them out to 4:10 or 3:73 for $1,000 - $1,500.

 

[prairiegopher]

Thanks for taking the time to reply. Please feel free to put your thoughts forward as I am very interested in other peoples experiences.

 

[Partyat33]

I was overweight with a Ram 1/2 ton gasser. Thats how I ended up with the 1 ton Dually. It is big to be sure, but it does a nice job on the 9k TT. Good luck on your decision.



Dennis

 

[prairiegopher]

Just a quick update on this. I took the trailer out this weekend and pulled it approx. 200 miles with a fairly steep grade. The truck handled the trailer well, so I am leaning toward keeping the present turck.