[Groesbeck Hurricane]

Toby,

I'm not sure why you think you need such a big truck but there could be several reasons. We have a Chevy heavy 1/2 tonne that easily tows 7500 pounds with the 350 and 3.73 rear end. It has 225,000 miles and is not for sale. We also have a 3/4 tonne Ford Diesel with a 3.73 rear end for jobs up to 12,000 pounds. I like the Dodge over the Ford for fuel economy, but for entry price we had to go with the Ford.

What are your specifications that you are trying to achieve? What will you be moving with this vehicle? You might be able to get what you need done with a less expensive truck. A 1/2 tonne can easily be configured from the factory to handle the 7,000 pound range of towing requirements. Remember, a 4X4 cannot tow as heavy a load as a 2X4.

For any truck you will use for towing: Factory towing option is your number one concern. This will include a transmission intercooler, wiring harness, heavier springs/helper springs, wiring harness for electric brakes, and maybe a heavier alternator. A rear end of 3.73 or around that will give you a good combination of low end torque and fuel economy. A 4.00 and greater rear end will limit your fuel economy unless you are only using the vehicle as a tow vehicle. Make sure you have electric brakes for your trailer! Not only is it the law, it is the only way to effectively stop your trailer in a short distance. Wheel base can be your friend or enemy. The longer the wheel base, the more stable the tow vehicle and the less bounce you feel from the trailer. And a limited slip differential is essential to stable towing on an unstable road bed. Oh, gooseneck/overneck trailers are easier to handle than bumper pull trailers.

I'm sure you'll want creature conforts, but make sure your truck is set up with the minimum above. We like rubber floors and vinyl seats in our trucks with manual everything possible so as to improve reliability and useability. Easier to clean when you get muddy.