So I have crossed the Tundra off my list as to tow over 5K lbs you are supposed to use a weight distributing hitch and I am not going there.

So we are on to 3/4 ton pickups.

We are leaning more towards Chevy/GM, but Ford has entered the picture as I now have a contact at a local Ford dealership.

I know there were a lot of issues with the 6.0L Powerstroke.

Did they get those issues worked out towards the end of the life cycle of the 6.0L or were they still problematic?

I had a 2002 F350 and though I didn't have problems with the motor, both front hubs had to be replaced and the mechanic put the wrong transmission fluid into it. The transmission also seemed to make some odd noises though that could have been my overzealous ears?

I'm wondering if I should include an 06/07 F250/F350 in my selection process.

The Duramax/Allison combo is tough to beat, IMO.

Hate to break it to you, but all trucks have the same hitch readings as the Tundra, including the 3/4 tons. Just have to read the fine print. Many people don't realize this, those that do, wither disregard it or replace the hitch.

As far as the 6.0L, issues were worked out by '05.

Think they basically have a class 3 trailer hitch which is rated up to 5000# without a weight distributing hitch.

Why did the hubs need replacing? Was it shift on the fly 4WD? Usually it is just the vacuum tube that is clogged or the bearing seals, but not the hubs. If it was 2WD, I don't know about the hubs as I don't have one. As far as the tranny goes, I've run Mobil 1 since about 40K miles against Ford's recommendation of not using synthetic. A year or so ago, after they all were off warranty, Ford suddenly changed their mind. They also stopped using dino tranny fluid in all their fleet at the same time. At 113k miles, my tranny is still doing quite fine... So is the 7.3L PSD. They never got the 6.0L right and the 6.4L is still out for testing on the consumer. There was a recall for flame throwers on the exhaust recharge thingy for the smog regulations. Try to find a well cared for 2002 or 2003 if used. Go with the Duramax / Allison if buying new.

I had a problems with my 06 F350 DRW, so much so I lemon lawed it back to Ford. My 07 F350 DRW is great, not a problem at all. My hitch is a class 5 and good for 15000lbs. No mention anywhere about a weight distributing hitch.

Mark

The difference is in the Tundra manual it talks about the 5Klb limit for non-weight distributing hitch. I am assuming that is a vehicle limit as opposed to a hitch limit since it is built into the manual and not just listed on the hitch.

Also, the Toyota Factory tow package has an integrated hitch which could create issues with upgrades.

Maybe I'm wrong. I should clarify that most of the 1/2 tons trucks have this rating.

I get frustrated that it seems that manufacturers are constantly trying to hide things from consumers. This includes boat lengths, tow ratings, and many other things.

I have been told by a Ford diesel mech that by '05 the 6.0 ltr had all the bugs worked out, as long as you did not chip them.

My truck has never given me any problems and it runs very well. I don't hot rod but have no problems accelerating up to 70 very quickly.

My understanding is the new 6.4 is a good motor, but on the thirsty side. I can get 19 mpg loaded but not towing with my truck if I keep the RPM below 2K. That's right at 70MPH.

When I tow with it it's very nice. Good ride, quite and moves the boat on down the road well and gives a very good sense of control.

If you get a chance, go somewhere where people are pulling big trailers. Say maybe a livestock show or a stock car race.

Note the popularity of the various brands, especially the folks towing the largest rigs, figure that into your thoughts.