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GeorgeArb
Joined: 13 Oct 2004 Posts: 1
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Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2004 1:42 pm Post subject: Need Towing Advice |
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I've got a 2001 Dakota Quad Cab with a 4.7L-Auto-3.55 drivetrain and am
considering buying a light travel trailer or a 5th wheel
19-21 foot. The dry weight of these trailers 3800-4200 lbs, and equipped
with electric brakes seem to be well within the approximately 5000
lb. tow rating of the Dakota, or perhaps a little over if the trailer is
loaded to capacity. My question is even though this weight
class is within the maximum tow ratings of the truck would the
actual onroad performance be adequate, or so bad that it isn't even worth the attempt? I'm guessing that level road
towing ability would probably be okay, but would I be down to 30 mph at WOT
in the foothills? (I realize that really steep grades would be tough but
that would probably be the case even with a larger vehicle. I'm talking
about average foothills). I'm not going to move up to a 3/4-ton so if
towing with the Dakota isn't practical the idea is going to be pretty much
off for now. The best idea would probably be to try to rent something
similar and just give it a try, but that's not too practical in my area.
Seeking advice from anyone with experience with a similar setup.
Thanks George |
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TS-Derek Site Admin
Joined: 10 Aug 2004 Posts: 115
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Posted: Mon Oct 18, 2004 2:35 pm Post subject: |
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I don't have any experience with a setup similar to what you're referring to, but I would imagine that you'll find the Dakota will be somewhat inadequate in the torque department for the type trailer you have in mind.
Like you said, it should do 'okay' on level road, but it'll probably huff & puff some when towing up a hill.
-Derek |
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Guest
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Posted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 2:48 am Post subject: Proudly Confused |
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Quote: | I don't have any experience with a setup similar to what you're referring to, but I would imagine that you'll find the Dakota will be somewhat inadequate in the torque department for the type trailer you have in mind. |
I will never understand all of the politics. |
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Desa
Joined: 24 May 2005 Posts: 2
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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:36 am Post subject: |
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I realize this could be a little late, but. I have a 2001 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab with the 360 CI motor . I pull a 27' travel trailer, it grosses about 4800lbs. Ask my wife, I pull it any where I want to and as fast as I want to. (usuall faster than she wants me to) With the exception of rain slick roads, you never hardly know its there .
My wifes 2002 Durango has the 292 and the only time I really notice the camper is on a long uphill grade. Other than that it puls it equaly as well, even being a shorter wheelbase. Infact, her Durango will get about 2-3 miles per gallon better than my Dakota.
We live in Southern Indiana and pull to Florida usually twice a year and up into Wisconsin once a year. Doesn't matter which vehicle I use, they both do fine.
Bottom line, I think unless you will be pulling only in the mountains, your truck will do fine.
Any other questions, feel free to ask.
Sonny |
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