Recommendations for older model 3/4 ton pickup to tow 2 horse trailer

mukluk

Budget dictates an older truck (probably at least 10 years old). Plan to use it strictly as a tow vehicle. Most of the time I would be doing short trips to local equestrian center (about 10 miles round trip). However, I would like something that I can use for occasional longer trips of 100 to 500 miles round trip. And on these trips may be going to the mountains such as Yosemite (so for that I need 3/4 ton). I don't think I want a diesel due to limited hauling and higher upkeep. Can anyone make any recommendations with regard to makes/models of trucks to consider/Engine types etc. Thanks

Mr_Shiftright

What's your total weight of trailer and horse (s)?

texases

Go to a show, find some folks towing similar loads, and ask them about their trucks. Straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak...

mukluk

Approx 8000 lbs. From what I understand with horses (live weight) you want to use no more than 80% of trucks tow capacity. Probably want at least 10,000 tow capacity more if possible in case I ever needed to pull a bigger trailer. I think a 1/2 ton could be OK for short trips but not OK for longer trips.

kyfdx

I'd want a heavy duty pickup with loads that high. F-250 or 2500 model from GM/RAM

mukluk

So far I have found....
a 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 with 153.000 miles for 13,995
a 2004 Ford F250 Lariat 167,000 for 13,500

What is the mileage expectancy on trucks of this age? Can they go to 200,000 + like my Subaru outback?
I doubt I would put more than 3000 miles per year on this vehicle.

mukluk

The Ford above is a diesel so not sure that's what I would want- I know the diesel engines go longer but I understand they are more expensive to maintain.

mukluk

2004 Ford 250 XL 150,959 miles for $14,995

2001 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT 160,650 for $4995 I certainly like the price.

mukluk

Also the 8000 tow weight is with two horses and gear for a trip. Most of the time tow weight would be lower with just one horse (so subtract 1200) and less gear. But you should plan for the max you think you will need.

kyfdx

mukluk said:

Also the 8000 tow weight is with two horses and gear for a trip. Most of the time tow weight would be lower with just one horse (so subtract 1200) and less gear. But you should plan for the max you think you will need.

I wouldn't discount the diesel. How much maintenance can you have for just 3000 miles? You can probably make it all up in fuel savings!

mukluk

Opinions on Ford 250 vs Dodge Ram 2500? Someone told me the Rams "eat ball joints" hmmm.

mukluk

I have a similar post on a horse forum and many people recommend Ford F250 with 7.3 diesel. Also Chevy or GMC duramax + Cummins. Opinons on either of them here?

Mr_Shiftright

You might find THIS ARTICLE helpful:

Ten Best Used Diesel Trucks

Naturally, you have to look at each used truck individually, in terms of maintenance records and overall condition.

mukluk

Thank you so much Mr. Shiftright!!!! A great article for me to peruse. Greatly appreciated!