clean sweep

Looking at an 04 Excursion to pull my 38 Lightning. Wife wants something that family can use together(have 5 kids) vs a dually. Looking at the V-10 or a diesel. 38' Lightning weights in at approx. 9M#. What does everyone think? Is an Excursion enough for this boat? Also looking at 3/4 ton Suburban with 454 V-8. Both cars will have full tow package etc. Looking for opinions.

excursion

I will tell you one thing DIESEL!!!!!! Is the only way too get an EX, the torque and mileage will amaze you, 600 miles to a tank, I pull a 37 AT all over with a 7.3, no problem.

Dont like gas motors when pulling alot of weight.

GLH

Ex is plenty for a 35ft long Fountain 38!!!

Chart

The PSD Excursion is also about a thousand pounds heavier, and that helps control the trailer. But, you'll need to improve a few parts of the suspension to make it a true tow vehicle. Mostly better shocks, airbags, and front springs if it's a 4x4. The front springs are for comfort, as the stock ones are too weak and allow the axle to bottom out.

excursion

I think you will be fine in a stock form. You are only pulling a 38 Fountain,. See how it does anr then spend the money if needed. Also depends on how far you will be pulling and type of roads, Just wait and see first.

Chart

Excursion's got a point about not spending money before you need to, but don't wait too long if you do need to. I was assuming you were not looking at a $50,000 truck for local pulls only, but your bank account may be different than mine. The shocks will make a noticeable difference, both towing and non-towing. But don't go back to stock shocks, they're just not that good. And my prior comment about front springs was strictly for comfort, not for towing ability.

clean sweep

Thanks for the inputs. I tow about 30 miles to the ramp on weekends. Go to LOTO and Holland, Mich(275 miles) once a year. Definitely go Diesel and see how it does before going in to improvements mentioned. Thanks for the advice.

Back4More

I have the V10....I could'nt get past the stink and noise of the PSD.
You'll need shocks and airbags....

270Laser

Have a 2000 Excursion 4X4 V10 140k since new. Haven't had a single problem with the engine or trans. My two car trailer weighted 13k-14k loaded and it towed it no problem. Make sure rear tires are pumped up to at least 60lbs when towing. Makes a big difference in handling.

mwdill

DIESEL!!! i get 21 mpg on the highway non towing,my wife loves dring it.