Opinions/Input requested...

[Mikey72]

I apologize in advance for the long post. We just finished our first weeklong camping trip. We have done several weekends since purchasing our first TT last year. It has been great TT, and i plan to get at least a few more weekends out of it. However, that being said, we learned this week that with our growing kids, and an 100lb dog, that the current TT is to small during inclement weather, ie TOO HOT in Texas sometimes in the afternoons.

My DW started looking at new TT's online and discovered the Crossroads Sunset Trail ST31SS, she likes the bunkroom for kids, the bathroom, the full size queen bed and most importantly the island. I have tried finding a comparable Jayco, but only 33bhts amd 32tbds come close. We are not planning to purchase until Feb/Mar of 2014, so this gives me time to review all my options.

This leads me to the problem at hand. I have researched and done the numbers, and realized this puts me way too close to max on towing and payload with my current TV. Granted most of our trips are within 60-75 miles, and no mountains, and I could probably pack and get things to say within 99% for the first couple of trips, but that leaves no room for error or future additions. I believe the safety issue is foremost for me and my family.

So, am I correct in my current assumption that the TT is too much for my current TV?

And, as much as I love my truck, to keep peace with the DW, I am willing to trade my current vehicle for a used 3/4 ton that allows for not just the St31SS, but opens it up for any other trailer under 7500# dry weight. A diesel is out of the question, because the majority of my daily driving is under 10miles. I am sure i will get a lot of differing opinions here, but the more information,the better. What would be a good recommended tow vehicle, and what would be the max mileage on the truck that I should look for when buying the vehicle?

Any additional inputs or opinions will be greatly appreciated.

[Mikey72]

I forgot to add the following:

TT (before options)
dry weight 6822
Tongue 846

Truck
Gvwr 6800
Curb 5150
Gcwr 14100

And, it is the truck GVWR that will be the item i probably go over 100%, even though i get the GCWR under 14000.

[Nighthawk 96]

You will definately be happier with a 2500 series truck. The tongue weight will approach 1000# with a loaded trailer.

[Crabman]

I agree with Nighthawk.
I bought a 2004 2500HD Crewcab with only 73K in great shape last Summer to do the job, about 1/3 the cost of a new one.(would have bought a new one if it was in the budget but spending $40K+ just was not gonna happen) The 1500 Ext cab just was not cutting it as a TV and is now only a work truck...The difference in the towing experience is night and day.