[A/S] Yet Another Tow Vehicle Question - Chevy Duramax

["Jim Whitworth" <whitsend@xxxxxxxxxx>]

MaryAnn -
Your friend might be semi/sort of almost OK, depending on the size of their
5th wheel. Lots of them are small(ish) and some of them built fairly
'light'. I've also seen some 5th wheels that I think would need a Mack or
Peterbuilt rig to pull safely. But in my admittedly limited travel trailer
experience, I've never heard of folks packing cast iron cooking pans for the
trip. That can be a lot of weight to add into the mix. I think there might
be an ongoing discussion on trailering with your potable water tank full -
some think it adds to the trailer's stability while others don't like it. I
don't have an answer to that one. You are really smart to do all the
homework & asking questions prior to making your decisions. An RV and the
required puller is no small expense, and tons of folks don't give enough
thought to how the entire rig (puller AND trailer)are going to be used to
meet the family's all around needs. One thing to think of is whether or not
you will ever take your A/S into the mountains. If you decide on a trailer
big enough to accommodate your family (I have a 30' Classic, and my kid is
grown & gone!! and all kids, of all ages, will want to take one or two
'toys' along) you might find you'll need more trailer and the strength of
the 3/4 ton diesel in the mountains. But then the question arises as to
which of you are going to use that truck as your every day vehicle? I
personally enjoy the challenge of driving the F250 PSD into town and thru
tight spots. Many don't. But it certainly needs to be discussed & agreed to
beforehand. Good luck.
Jim