Solution to RV problem

[Yakn1]

If you have read the Forest River...post and then read this, you'll know why I smoke!!!
After returning home yesterday and having time to think about some of the "add ons" to the Coleman, I knew I could still tow it, but it would be empty
We were bound and determined to call this morn and cancel the deal.
Well after much dicussion, it has been decided that I CAN get her home and parked, no big deal. Now if you want to use it... we need a new truck!
Sure I'd love a new truck but the cost? So I called about have a new rear end put in (the TRUCK - Mitch - the Truck).
They said I should get at least 2000# more tow capacity and for maybe $1500. Sure sounds better than buying a new pickup!!
So I'll let you all know what happens - guess it's always an adventure around here.

[mitch5252]

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Wish I could get a new rear end for fifteen hundred bucks!

What's the tow capacity of your truck?

ON EDIT: "Vicky, haven't you had heart surgery?", she asked in reference to the smoking comment...
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[Yakn1]

Mitch - tow capacity (per the manual) is only 4600#, doesn't make much sense for a pickup does it?
Here's a good one for ya - my P/U isn't even listed on the 2007 tow guide
I'll have to talk to the mechanic in the morning to cuss and discuss.

On edit: and your point is??

[mitch5252]

On edit: and your point is??

ON EDIT: tsk. tsk.

What does "putting in a new rear end" entail?
Sure sounds like a reasonable solution, if it'll work to add 2,000# tow capacity.

[mitch5252]

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http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-parts/towing/towing-capacity/information/increase-towing-capacity.htm

Here's part of what it says...

But if you think you can remedy the problem by boosting the truck's towing capacity, you're out of luck.

What exactly is towing capacity? Manufacturers build cars and trucks to meet a specific Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). That rating defines the amount of cargo weight inside the vehicles (i.e. passengers) and trailer weight. The wheel axles, suspension, braking system, steering capabilities and other internal controls are constructed in accordance with that GVWR. Because vehicles are specially made with set towing capacities, you can't alter the rating without re-engineering the vehicle. Also, some vehicles might not be rated for towing at all. In that case, you certainly couldn't augment their hauling power.


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[mitch5252]

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And this is from another website...

You should weigh the boat and trailer, you'll be suprised how much weight you have. I think it'll be definetly above 5,000. It is not possible to increase towing capacity of a vehicle. That capacity is based on a lot of factors and frame strength is one. Add on tranny coolers and such simply help prolong the life of compnents, they dont make them any stronger. According to Mike up there apparently your Durango is okay for towing that.

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"It aint rocket surgery"
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[Yakn1]

Thanks Mitch - I'll definately check that out first

[Colliemom]

And may I inquire as to what brand of pickup truck you have, it's engine size and all that?

[Yakn1]

Sue- I have a 2007 Silverado crew cab, with...
4.8 V8 and 3.23 gear ratio.
I had no intention of towing rvs when I bought it and didn't know better.
Chevy made 4.8's with 3.73 gears and a tow capacity of 6600#.
This shouldn't be a big deal, but we shall see!

[Echo]

I think I would go directly to a dealer or even call GM and get your answers. 2 trucks sitting side by side can look like twins. Frame wise they will be the same. The big differences will be found in the rear end and transmission and trans cooler. Breaks, suspension and radiator can all be beefed up. So a call to the mfg might be the very best answer.

X-husband did that with a truck he had and we towed a tri-axle trailer open trailer some wicked weight with that old thing. We were hauling logs to the saw mill. He had been using my 3/4 full sized Blazer to haul that trailer and logs but ruined the tranny. So which tranny you have in your truck will make as big a diff as the rear end.

[Colliemom]

Okay. I had a 208 Silverado with a 5.3 liter V-8, forgot what the axle ratio was with towing equipment on it. Was rated for 7,000lbs, and was towing my TT with that truck last year. My TT runs around 4500lbs. fully loaded. that truck with that engine did a good job of hauling the TT, but I did find that when I needed to pick up speed to enter the freeway or whatever, it took a ways to get it up there. Did okay in the hills for the most part too.

So this past summer, I had a chance to turn it in (under lease) and deicded to order a trailer towing equipped truck. The one I have now is trailer equipped with 6.2 V-8, trailer towing mirrors, heavy duty trailer equpment package, 3.73 axle rating, 9.5 inch rear axle, automatice locking rear differential and all that good stuff. Now rated to tow 10,700 lbs. An overkill for this little trailer I know, but gives me room to go up if I want. I can haul a small 5er if I want.

Now I have plenty of power when I need it. It moves that trailer really well. Course that size engine will sacrifice gas mileage I'm onlly getting 10-11 mpg when the trailer is hooked up and not a heck of a lot better without it. Maybe 15-18.

Seeing how your trailer is about the same weight mine is, you will have enough power, but would really do better with the bigger engine. I don't know what you can or can't afford, but you might look into finding a used truck that's coming off a lease as they are usually well maintained. Might give you the power you need. You have plenty of power for flat roads, but if you get into steeper hills, well... Something to think about.