Which is the Better Tow Truck?

[dodge man]

The Dodge with the 5.7 hemi and 3.92 gears. Sorry, I couldn't help but throw that in.

To answer your question, unless you are towing a near maximum load for either truck, pick the one you like best.

 

[jeffsw6]

What are the torque ratings, what is the weight difference between the two trucks, and what is the overall gear ratio in 6th gear? Not likely anybody is going to tow in 6th gear but I would pick the truck with the higher torque rating, the lighter weight, and the lower overall gear ratio.

I think the 6L60e 5th gear is 0.85 and 6th 0.67. Basically the 6th gear is an MPG gear for cruising without a load, it won't see much use while towing unless you are going down-hill both ways.

They are both similar half-ton trucks. I wouldn't "upgrade" from the '10 F150 to the '12 Silverado 1500 unless the Silverado has a lot less miles or a lot more creature comforts for the price. Don't forget to factor in the sales tax, on a '12 truck that's going to be a pretty big figure if your state makes you pay tax on the whole price of the truck instead of the sale price minus trade-in value.

 

[JDgreen227]

Like Michigan does...buy a $50,000 truck and trade in one worth $49,999 and you still pay 6% sales tax on the new one. Pure, 100% BS.

 

[Dmace]

Now for the question no ones asked, which has a higher GVWR?
I believe both have "HD" versions.

 

[RJD2516]

Better? Too subjective. Better how? Better ride (chevy). Better mileage (chevy). More comfortable interior (Ford). More reliable (either, both these engines have been around for a while). Better looking (this question may just start a fight).

But, if you are just talking about which one will haul more, then I would say move up a truck size. If you plan on towing 5000 lbs, a 1/2 ton is fine. If you are worried that the 1/2 ton has a tow rating of 8500 lbs, and that is just about what you are going to tow, then get a bigger truck. Chevy, Ford, Dodge, and even the Tundra are all nice trucks in the half ton models. I just can't see a huge difference in abilities between all four of them.

I own a Ford. But if it was me, I would get the chevy. I love that 5.3L engine. However, a hemi might be nice.....

 

[JDgreen227]

Now for the question no ones asked, which has a higher GVWR?
I believe both have "HD" versions.

If you are gonna tow, GVWR is moot....it's the GCWR that matters!!!

 

[Soundguy]

Like stated above the 5.4 Ford has the advantage on power. It makes better torque at the low end. The 5.3 GM is a tried and true motor that is basically trouble free other than some using oil. Its hit or miss on this.

The 3.73 gears in the Ford will really shine over the 3.42 gears in the GM. If you could find a 3.73 GM it would be a even fight.

Chris

not that I'd ever want to tow with a half ton anymore.. but if I did.. I'd take the lower axle ratio for sure.... i can sure feel the difference in 4.1 to 4.88 vs 3.73 etc..

 

[jejeosborne]

If you are gonna tow, GVWR is moot....it's the GCWR that matters!!!

I think those are both moot. What if one truck has a lower curb weight but equal GCWR? It is simply the towing capacity that I think we need to compare. I am a fan of higher payload numbers too.

 

[Dmace]

If you are gonna tow, GVWR is moot....it's the GCWR that matters!!!

You do realize GCWR is basically GVWR + GVWR, right? :rollseyes:
Get the wrong GVWR setup and you'll be dragging bumper with even moderate tongue weight. Kind of a downfall to so many options.
Lower GVWR = lower GCWR

 

[Mark Page]

Forget them both and get yourself a Tundra. 400hp, and 390 ft/lbs of torque, it's a match for anything up to 11,000 lbs.
If your going to do a lot of serious towing you need to consider a diesel.