Looking for a new tow vehicle

[bigredbill]

My 2004 Ram 1500 needs to be retired. Starting to have too many mechanical issues with it, and I am looking for something with a little more power for towing our trailer. Looking at a couple used trucks: a 2008 Ford F250 and a 2010 Ram 2500. Both are gas engines and have low mileage. The Ford is about $4000 cheaper.

Anyone own either of these models? Recommendations?

 

[2goofycampers]

We have a Ram 2500 in diesel, best truck we've owned.

 

[kekee]

Which engine is in the ford Bill ?

 

[bigredbill]

Which engine is in the ford Bill ?

It is a 6.8L V10 -- gasoline engine.

 

[bigredbill]

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Ended up going with the Ford F250. We are really happy with that decision. We'll see when gas is at $5 per gallon, though.

 

[DEPO]

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Ended up going with the Ford F250. We are really happy with that decision. We'll see when gas is at $5 per gallon, though.

Nice Rig

Yeah I am in the same boat as you, bought a brand new truck and so happy with it, this is my first really wanted vehicle I have owned, everything so far has been it was cheap and pratical. Of course now I have it I am looking at 5 bucks a gallon.

Thank goodness I commute to work on my motorcycle unless it is raining.

 

[2goofycampers]

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Very nice, happy trails to you.

 

[jonimce]

My 2004 Ram 1500 needs to be retired. Starting to have too many mechanical issues with it, and I am looking for something with a little more power for towing our trailer. Looking at a couple used trucks: a 2008 Ford F250 and a 2010 Ram 2500. Both are gas engines and have low mileage. The Ford is about $4000 cheaper.

Anyone own either of these models? Recommendations?

Did you pull this TT with the 1500? We have been looking at a new Ram 1500 Hemi. Our TT is much smaller than yours, 24' Aerolite. We now pull with a 2002 Chevy Express van, V8. I know the 1500 will pull the tt but someday we may move up to a 5th wheel. Small one. Some suggest we go with the 2500 but I'm told they are a little rough for an everyday ride.

Joni

 

[bigredbill]

Did you pull this TT with the 1500? We have been looking at a new Ram 1500 Hemi. Our TT is much smaller than yours, 24' Aerolite. We now pull with a 2002 Chevy Express van, V8. I know the 1500 will pull the tt but someday we may move up to a 5th wheel. Small one. Some suggest we go with the 2500 but I'm told they are a little rough for an everyday ride.

Joni

Yes, we pulled it with the Ram. My Ram had the 4.7L engine, not the larger Hemi. Even though our trailer is 33' long, it is fairly light for it's size, thus the reason we purchased it. Under 5000 pounds dry, around 6500 weighted. This was the max that our Ram could pull, and we were always leaving equipment home due to weight concerns.

Dodge usually puts out a pretty good online towing guide. I would check it out prior to your purchase. I am sure you'd be in good shape with the Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi with your current trailer. Now, if you are looking to upgrade to a fifth-wheel at some point, not sure the 1500 would support it.

A few months ago I test drove a new Ram 2500 diesel. It rode fairly smooth -- just a little more than what we wanted to spend. The F250 certainly drives like a heavy duty truck -- you feel the bumps. It actually rides smoother when weighted down.

Good luck!

 

[jonimce]

Thanks bigredbill. DH has been doing lots of research. Can't believe the cost difference and we want all the bells and whistles. We do tend to drive a lot so I want the comfort of our van in a truck. May not be possible but I'm looking.