Capable Truck to Pull R-29

[Harmony]

Hey all you R-29ers,
If you trailer your boat long distances, can you recommend your particular truck? We want to drive from Washington State this winter all the way to San Diego or Baja and want to buy a truck that can handle the weight. Open to suggestions.
Thanks!
Harmony
Skipper-to-be, Poppy's Legacy

 

[RProffer]

You are looking at pulling 11,000 lbs or more. I would recommend a GMC/Chevy 2500 or 3500 with 4 wheel drive, Vortec 6.0 engine and Allison transmission, with towing package. You won't be sorry.

 

[Levitation]

You really need a diesel... My R25 is over 11,000 pounds all up on the trailer, your 29 will be even more... A gas motor is going to struggle with that much weight...
I am partial to the GM/Duramax engine, Silverado 2500HD... My current boat hauler is an 08 crew cab with the short box and a hard (folding) box cover... I believe that the 2500HD will handle your boat... But if you intend to climb Pikes Peak with the boat on a regular basis then the 3500HD would be indicated... I would advise staying away from a dually for pulling the R29...

If you expect to be pulling on winter roads or using slippery ramps then a 4X4 is best... I went with a 2WD because of the better mileage and improved ride and shorter turning radius and the lower operating costs... I carry a 5 gallon pail of dry sand and a scoop for the once a year slippery ramp...
I do not intend to be pulling my boat towards snow and ice - no, no, no!!! The other direction, fer shure.,..

If you are considering a new diesel truck, Ford has a new engine design for 2011 that is claimed to be good and have better mileage than 2010 due to the required Urea injection system and more power to boot...
The 2011 Duramax/Silverado is supposed to get better mileage for the same reason and has a significant increase in power over the 2010... At this point I am wishing I were buying a new one now as I would get a 2011 Duramax...

Dodge trucks I know very little about so I will not comment... Used trucks are always a better bang for the buck...

 

[Spirit of Gratitude]

Harmony,
You may want to read my thread on towing a Ranger 29 through the western states. I just brought it up to the front of the posts so you can find it very easy.
Also I am not sure if you got my comments on insurance and Mexico a while back. I have much to share on all of these subjects.
You can call me anytime, 970-946-3156

Stuart...... Spirit of Gratitude 🙂

 

[wefings]

I'd be looking for a 2006 or OLDER low mile Duramax/Allison 1 ton Dually . You definatly DO want a Dually for that kind of distance towing and heavy ,high windage boat. Longer the better bed and cab wise. With a tow safe chip or programmer ,and free flowing intake you will be happy .
Marc