Just joined - need truck advice

[Keevj]

We recently bought a 8,000 pound 34ft. Cougar trailer. What is the best truck to buy in order to go up into the mountains? I appreciate any feedback!

 

[MapNerd]

Is this a TT or 5th Wheel? Most new 1500/150 series trucks will pull that weight with no issues.

However, is that 8,000lbs empty? If so, you’ll never pull it that way, except home from the dealer. Use the trailer’s GVWR. Most trailers allow for about 2,000lbs cargo carrying capacity which would take you to 10,000lbs once loaded. At that point, Then you’d likely want to go to a 2500/250.

 

[Keevj]

Is this a TT or 5th Wheel? Most new 1500/150 series trucks will pull that weight with no issues.

However, is that 8,000lbs empty? If so, you’ll never pull it that way, except home from the dealer. Use the trailer’s GVWR. Most trailers allow for about 2,000lbs cargo carrying capacity which would take you to 10,000lbs once loaded. At that point, Then you’d likely want to go to a 2500/250.

Thanks. It’s a TT. We just need advice from everyone having a TT.

 

[FL-JOE]

I have never actually owned a TT, but I have pulled numerous cargo trailers that weighed more than many travel trailers, so I'll chime in.

Depending on your budget, I would go with a 3/4 ton diesel. Most will say this is an overkill but it allows you to change to a larger/heavier RV at some point in the future. If you are trying to spend as little as possible starting out then a 1/2 ton would probably get you buy with that weight trailer.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

We recently bought a 8,000 pound 34ft. Cougar trailer. What is the best truck to buy in order to go up into the mountains? I appreciate any feedback!

It's about hitch weight and engine/transmission capacity more than truck capacity.

 

[kayakterp]

I agree with MapNerd, a 3/4 ton truck will give you a lot more stability. That's a lot of trailer for a 1/2 ton IMHO.
3/4 ton trucks are heavier (better stability) with better brakes and won't be pushed around as much.
If you'll be pulling in the mountains a lot then a diesel will pull best but I personally prefer the gas de to the maintenance factors.
Good luck and Happy Glamping

 

[GeoKat]

My $0.02 aim to over truck it.

 

[DKRITTER]

Remember, it's better to have too much truck than not enough.