Decision: Tow muscle vs. Ride

newtrucks

I test drove the '01 F250 SuperCab 4x4, it rides hard (w/3.73) but has the muscle, (I have a boat, about 7k lbs total rig). On the other hand, the F150 SuperCab Lariat 4x4, 3.55 big V8 should ride softer (haven't tested it, comments?), but maybe I sacrifice towing? Any pros out there can help me tell the difference?

sfish

I have a 20 ft 5200# boat and a 24 ft 8000# boat. I went for the even softer ride of a 2001 Chevy ext cab 1500/5.3/3.73/4X4. The lower step up th the cabin and the much more comfortable back seats for 2 teen boys larger than 6 ft were the reasons. The truck tows the 20ft baot like nothing is there and the 24ft tow is great too. I towed the 24ft with my friends 92 F250-460 and it did not ride or tow as nice. Backing the boat into my tight yard was much better with the Chevy and I have always owned Fords.

newtrucks

I will look at the Chevys, particularly the z71. I was looking at Fords because I have had a Chevy 1500 5.7L since I bought the boat 3 years ago and wanted to change to the new styling of the Ford. Although my good ol' chevy has done fine towing for 3 years it's getting up there in years (it is a '93) and miles (86k) and I am looking to change.

jcmdie

You might try the F250 crew cab. The ride is softer because the wheelbase is longer and because the crew cab is 800# heavier than the supercab. That way you get the towing capacity and tons of interior room.

cwhitley

Your comment about towing a 5200# load with your 1500 caught my attention. I am interested in a bigger truck, I have a 1997 Chevy S-10, to help carry my family and trailer. It looks like you have the family situation solved, and my kids are only 7 years and expecting in July!!! Your towing info is encouraging as I have a lite-weight travel trailer going about 4500# loaded and I was concerned about having to go 3/4 ton.

I guess it would be safe to say that a properly equipped 1500 would be more than enough to handle my needs.

Chris

ken0

I pull a 22 ft fifth wheel rig weighing 5200# total weight including food,clothing , people,generator and full tanks. I use a 1997 Silverado 1500 ext.cab and have towed through the Rockies and the Smokies and other than brake pad replacement have a rig that tows and rides like a dream