Try doing this with a 1/2 ton. The trailer weight alone would possibly have a 1/2 ton bottoming the bumpstops out on the rearend.
Admittedly when I bought this tractor new, JD delivered it the same as it's configured in this picture with the tires filled, and the FEL, weighing probably 8,500+ lbs without the trailer using an old steel body, GEN1 3.5L EB F150. Wasn't using a large 5 wheel trailer though, which these things are heavy. I was impressed. There are some fairly decent hills and elevation changes between me and the Deere dealership. I asked the guy about it, and he said you definitely know it's back there, but that their company EB F150's manage tractors this size okay.
Still, you tow 7-8K with a 1/2 ton, you going know it's back there for sure. A 3/4 or 1 ton particularly will feel more settled and comfortable or less bouncy with that load and weight on it, and will have you feeling much safer and more confident while towing X load.
You don't buy a 1/2 ton to feel the role of a Corvette, just like you don't buy a HD truck to feel the role of a Lincoln Town Car. You need to buy, based on your needs. If you want a nice, comfy DD, but need to have a truck for serious work, I recommend getting a nice 1/2 ton to daily, and buying a used, more base model 1 ton for tow pig duties, and hauling heavy loads. You think a 3/4 ton rides rough, try a 1 ton. Still I prefer a 1 ton, and it will haul noticeably more weight than a 3/4 ton. The only big difference between the two is the rearend/rear suspension setup.
With that said, what kind of weight are you wanting to move? If you're not over-taxing a 1/2 ton, then no problem with a 1/2 ton. Rams coil spring setup rides really nicely. I'm generally a Ford or Chevy guy so don't quote me on this, but I believe the Ram 2500 has a coil spring or air ride setup, while the 3500 sets up to beefier leaf springs.?.? You may try testing a Ram 2500 if you're looking for a HD with a decent ride.
