strictly for budgeting purposes

[teakinmn]

I'm still in the "wannabe a newbie" category, looking at getting a trailer in the next few years. Wife and I agree something like the Flying Cloud 25FB is what we're after, and for long term budgeting purposes I'd like to get a feel for what other users of similar-sized models use for a tow vehicle. I'd really like to hear what users like/don't like about their rigs. Thanks in advance!

[powool]

It helps to have some idea of how you think you might want to use it - trips per year, terrain you would drive in, miles per trip, that kind of thing. I get by with old Durango, but it doesn't cut it in big hills or, heaven forbid, the mountains.

[Friday]

In that size it is common for people to use a typical body-on-frame truck or SUV... it doesn't need to be a monster, but when it comes to towing often the 'small' V8's will perform better than the V6's in terms of mileage when they are loaded. You're looking at over 7000lbs if you load it right up, so that is going to limit you somewhat... but there are lots of people that have properly rigged smaller crossover SUV's and cars to tow 25 footers.

If you don't need a 4x4 things are cheaper. A 2wd Sequoia is a great rig... any crew-cab 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton is dandy... if you are planning on lots of loaded hauling, you might want to do the math and see if a diesel would be choice. Dodge was giving away diesels up here as a promotion (free upgrade from the hemi).

I tow with a Sequoia 4x4... as do many others here... we all like them. Tundras are a popular choice... Ford's new Ecoboost V6 is a great combo of empty mileage and lots of towing capacity...

What I like is lots of space for the kids and the dog... lots of power so I am never left wanting... decent mileage when I'm empty... The 5.7l in the Sequoia/Tundra works for me.

[danlehosky]

We use a Tahoe with the KSL HD towing package. Works great.

[teakinmn]

Originally Posted by powool

It helps to have some idea of how you think you might want to use it - trips per year, terrain you would drive in, miles per trip, that kind of thing. I get by with old Durango, but it doesn't cut it in big hills or, heaven forbid, the mountains.

Our use would probably be flatlander terrain for the first couple of years unless our 401k's take off and we can retire sooner than anticipated. After that, we'd definitely want to head to National Parks all over the country.