Which truck?

[W31]

We want to buy a truck capable of pulling a 24' aluminum enclosed car trailer weighing about 7800# loaded. I know that this topic has been posted many times, however I will ask again... 1/2 ton NHT/3:73 equipped 2011 extra cab Silverado or 3/4 ton 6.0/3:73 2011 extra cab Silverado?

 

While we will only be towing 2-4 times a year, one of the trips could be rather long, over 500 miles. I have driven both trucks and like some things about each, however I am leaning toward the 1/2 ton due to autotrac 4 wheel drive. We get a lot of snow and ice here in Northern IN and people I work with like the autotrac.

 

My main concern is not power, but is stability with the trailer in tow.

 

Thanks for your input

[Stevens03]

No need for a double post... I answered your question in the other thread.

[becker87]

If you like the half ton, then go with that. Towing that weight just a few times a year is nothing for an NHT 6.2L.

[SouthCo]

I'd go 3/4 ton.

[W31]

Thanks for all of your input! I do appreciate it.

[c4cruiser]

A 7800 lb load shouldn't be a big issue for a 1500 with the 6.2 motor. Make sure the truck has the heavy-duty towing package. Setting the trailer up properly will be another to do. With the trailer loaded, the tongue weight should be 10-15% of the gross trailer weight.

 

Also with the 1500, definitely use a weight distribution hitch. 1500-series trucks come with a Class III/IV hitch and the WD hitch will allow you to tow around 10K lbs. The WD hitch will place more of the load on the truck and will be balanced between the front and rear axles. Also consider an anti-sway bar for the trailer. Remember, you will be towing a "brick" and passing trucks can easily cause swaying from the air movement.

 

When determining the total gross weight of the truck and trailer, you have to add in everything that the truck is going to carry. You, your buddies, your wife and/or girlfriend, the kids, the dog, luggage, parts, tools, and a full tank of gas.

[fajitas21]

Personally without knowing all of the details such as tongue weight and such, and if this is the largest you'll tow, then I'd go 6.2L 1/2 ton w/ NHT + add a nice WD Hitch like the Equalizer or Reese Dual Cams and you're set man.

 

The 1500 will ride a bit nicer when you're not towing, and only a few times a year won't even make that 6.2L break a sweat.