TV Upgrade

Camping Couple · 06-10-2013, 06:19 AM

Ok I have a question. First a little background. We currently have a 2013 Jayco 197. Our current TV is a 2003 Chev 1500 4.3L V6 2WD Long bed regular cab. We use a WDH and the trailer tows just fine. The TV does struggle up hills. But overall, it's ok. We are limited on what to load for cargo as I know I am close to the TV limits. With that said, We honestly limit our traveling distance to within an hour. We are looking at upgrading to a Chev 2500HD. I know this is probably overkill for the TT we have now but doing this will allow us to travel farther comfortably and allow for a possible TT Upgrade down the road without having to upgrade the TV. Now the question. I've narrowed the search to 2 vehicles. The 1st has a rear axle ratio of 3.73 and the second has 4.10. What is the difference and which one is recommended? I am not an auto expert so I'm looking for guidance.

Thanks

Nighthawk 96 · 06-10-2013, 11:07 AM

The 3:73 will give slightly better gas mileage, the 4:10 will most likely have a somewhat higher tow rating. When looking at specific vehichles, check the info on the driver side door jamb for towing information. You may have to look up the code in the owners manual.

Camping Couple · 06-10-2013, 12:04 PM

Well, we went and purchased a 4x4 long bed reg cab 2500HD. The one we looked at on the lot with 4:10 axle was already sold when we got there. No more on the lot or any other dealers in West Michigan. We ended up with the one with 3:73 axle. This truck will be fine for us as its only the 2 of us. I do like the HD trailering package on this truck. Also comes with an integrated brake controller. GM has stopped making the 2013's and 2014's not on the lot yet. So with the current incentives, I couldn't pass it up. I'll post pics as soon as I can.

wayfun · 06-10-2013, 12:31 PM

Congratulations on the new TV. Don't forget to connect or have dealer connect the wire to provide 12 to your trailer battery.

Dennis

Camping Couple · 06-10-2013, 01:40 PM

Shouldn't it already be done? The 7 pin connector is already there mounted in the bumper.

OurJayco · 06-10-2013, 02:31 PM

Generally there is a relay that needs to be plugged in the fuse box. I know when I purchased my 2006 F150, they handed me the relay and said "Here is the relay to make your 7 pin connector work for your needs". It may already be done, but it would not hurt to ask just make sure that it is working when you need it.

Camping Couple · 06-11-2013, 09:11 PM

Update......yeah the salesman at the dealership did look into the wire connection for the trailer battery. He found out the factory leaves that wire disconnected. Not too sure of the reason but they do. So if anyone gets a new TV with a tow package....ask about that connection. They are going to make the connection for me next week when I bring it in to have the spray on Bedliner put on. Pictures to follow.

Locky66 · 06-12-2013, 05:28 AM

Congrats fellow West Michigander on your new TV.

Camping Couple · 06-12-2013, 08:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locky66

Congrats fellow West Michigander on your new TV.

Thanks! Where are you located? We are in Kalamazoo.

Locky66 · 06-12-2013, 08:30 PM

In Montague. Our camper is up at Silver Lake Sand Dunes for another 3 weeks.

Flipside · 06-13-2013, 01:11 PM

We will be there the July 4th week. Also going to mi adventure

**Crabman** · 06-13-2013, 01:26 PM

Enjoy the 2500! You will like it, different animal then the 1500............................

Iraqvet05 · 06-13-2013, 02:13 PM

What MPG are you seeing in town without the TT? I'd sure like to upgrade to a 3/4 ton one of these days!

Camping Couple · 06-13-2013, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Iraqvet05

What MPG are you seeing in town without the TT? I'd sure like to upgrade to a 3/4 ton one of these days!

I haven't had the chance to tow the TT yet. Just got the truck on Monday. Been working a lot this week. It still has a full tank of gas and 14 miles on it.