Buying advice

[jcoliver]

I currently own a 22' Minnie Winnie, but am thinking about changing my set up. The reason that I am considering changing is that a diesel truck would get alot better gas mileage, and could run biodiesel. Also, a truck would come in handy when I have projects around the house.
We do alot of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking, and so we like to boondock.
I don't like having my RV set up severely limit where I can go, so I want something small (24 foot range would be ideal). We generally get out on weekends about once a month, with a 3-4 week road trip in the summer, so we don't need anything big enough for a full-timer. Also, I want something sturdy that can handle dirt roads (we won't be going on any 4-wheel drive routes, but I want something that won't shake apart on a wash board dirt road)
I would prefer to hear from folks who have experience using these and are not trying to sell me something, so any advice from you fine folks would be greatly appreciated.

[jcoliver]

I currently own a 22' Minnie Winnie, but am thinking about changing my set up. The reason that I am considering changing is that a diesel truck would get alot better gas mileage, and could run biodiesel. Also, a truck would come in handy when I have projects around the house.
We do alot of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking, and so we like to boondock.
I don't like having my RV set up severely limit where I can go, so I want something small (24 foot range would be ideal). We generally get out on weekends about once a month, with a 3-4 week road trip in the summer, so we don't need anything big enough for a full-timer. Also, I want something sturdy that can handle dirt roads (we won't be going on any 4-wheel drive routes, but I want something that won't shake apart on a wash board dirt road)
I would prefer to hear from folks who have experience using these and are not trying to sell me something, so any advice from you fine folks would be greatly appreciated.

[Ray,IN]

I'm not clear on whether you are seeking advice on a truck or trailer. If it's a trailer, there are many to choose from and appears to be a lengthy search. If it's a truck to tow a 24' or 26' trailer, all 3/4T pickups with a diesel engine,as you stated, will perform very well. I would suggest buying 4WD though, even if you never envision using it. I have found myself in a few places where it was necessary or a tow truck would have been required. One was backing up a grassy slope just after a rain to hook-up and continue our journey. Another was waking to discover about 6" of water was flooding the grass field where we were parked while attending a muzzle-loaders shoot(had truck camper then).

[K-Star]

from a truck perspective I'll set myself up for missile attacks.

Since 2000, I have had a Ford PSD, A GMC Duramax, and I'm back to a Ford PSD. I prefer the Ford. The problem wasn't with t he Duramax diesel, on the contrary. It is an awesome motor. GM just does give as much rear gear as Ford to pull the heavier trailers. 3.73's wasn't cutting it for me. This probably won't be an issue for you.

Between the two, there were minor thing about Ford I liked better, and there were things about the GMC I like better. Either are an awesome truck. I never owned a Dodge - and that is by choice.

[rebelsbeach]

jcoliver, WELCOME to iRV2 !!

Looks like you're well on your way to getting some answers to your questions, please keep us posted as to what you decide to purchase!!

[RustyJC]

I've towed 5th wheels since 1996 with Dodges - a 1996 3500 dually with V-10 and 47RE automatic and our current 2002 3500 dually with Cummins HO and 6 speed. Both have been excellent trucks - our current truck has never been back to the dealer since we ordered it and took delivery on 8/15/01. The 5.9L Cummins is a proven workhorse - I can only suggest that you take a look at one as you make your purchasing decision.

Rusty