TV advice for X17A

[jsundin]

Looking at trucks. X17A is 3000# dry (with propane), so let's just call it 3500#. I want to carry some firewood and bikes on occasion in pickup bed. So, I figure, I want a V8, at least 4.6L to let me have good wiggle room.

Ideally, a new 5.7L would give me around 10000# and I would never have to worry, even if I upgrade my TT.

But, what is your thought on an older rig, like 2000-2006 that will last 3-4 more years, haul people and the above TT with no problem, minimal maintenance and maximum ease and comfort? Obviously looking to spend more like 15K instead of 40K on a TV.

Let me know if you have a TV in the age range I list. Thanks!

Jeff

[DocBrown]

With that trailer? Piece of cake. I used to tow a Kiwi 17a, an ancestor of the X17A with an '03 Trailblazer that had an I6. It towed that trailer beautifully. So an older 1/2 ton with a V8 will be an easy tow. I just bought the truck in my sig. It has 85k on it. It was a little more than you are looking to spend, but to your point, I have never, and never will buy a new vehicle.

Minimal maintenance? That's a crap shoot. It depends on how well cared for the truck was. If you can get service records that helps a lot, but in 35 years of buying used vehicles I have yet to buy one that had service records available. Otherwise if your not comfortable knowing what you're looking at find a friend show is.

[howie]

I have a 2005 Dodge Ram with 42,000 miles. I bought it used in 2011 with 30,000 miles on it. I love the Ram. It has seating for 6 and the 5.7 has plenty of power for towing. I had to look for a while to find something low mileage, but so far, no regrets.