New Member

[J and J]

Just wanted to say HI to all and wondering if I might be able to get some opions? Getting ready to purchase my first Airstream and I am looking at the 28 foot. What I am looking for is some advise on the tow vehicle. Go with a 1500 gas or diesel or a 2500 gas or diesel. HELP

Thanks,
J and J

[Mrjkq]

Welcome to the forum. Just about any half ton truck will handle a 28' AS. Personally I love diesel & that would be my choice mainly for the torque & reserve power especially on steeper grades. Many here don't feel the need for diesel and I agree it's not a must for a trailer of that size.

[FCStreamer]

Welcome! And yes, the 1500 should be fine unless you want to carry a lot of extra stuff, like a motorcycle. Then you'd need the 2500. I prefer gas personally but a lot of folks swear by diesel. Can't go wrong with either one. Good luck!

[malinois38]

First of all, you have to be aware that the 28' is one of if not the heaviest tongue weights for all Airstream travel trailers ever made. Just plan on 1000lbs of tongue weight if you load correctly.
Having said that I have towed over 10,000 miles with my 28' in a 2008 Toyota Tundra. It has been to Maine and as far west as Idaho. It has been a sufficient tow vehicle for a family of four with one white knuckled down hill experience (Teton Pass) that I did not care for.
My payload is 1325lbs, and that is one area where IMO most 1/2 tons fall short towing some of the heavier Airstreams.
If I were smart enough to ask this question before I bought my Airstream or travel vehicle, I would be driving a deisel today. For several reasons to include payload, engine braking and peace of mind.

Good luck and great question!

[BAB]

You'll get a lot of "help" with tow vehicle selection! I had a 2012 28' Intl CCD, and as already noted, the 28 has the highest tongue weight of any of the Airstreams. I towed this trailer initially with an Infinity QX80. It was OK. I ended up buying a 2014 Ram 2500 4x4 with the 6.7L Cummins. A MUCH more satisfactory combo. I'm now towing a '15 Classic (30) with the Ram. The safety margin of exhaust braking and enormous torque of the diesel gives you a nice safety margin for not just the tongue weight, but also the weight of the trailer and all the stuff you'll haul in either the trailer or the truck. You are smart to think carefully about the TV before you buy your trailer. I also went with a ProPride 3P hitch. Expensive, but money well spent, IMHO. Good luck and welcome!