fund razor

Hello folks.

Just got promoted at work. Now I can keep my boat.

Have been hauling it with a 305 chevy 2wd and using a hoist to launch. Would like to launch and recover off of the trailer and leave it in the water less.

Trailer 1500 pounds. Boat almost 6000.

How much truck do I need to launch and recover this boat?

I know that my CK1500 with a 5.0 will not be enough.

How big do I have to go?

Thanks.

Sean H

how far do you have to tow? most half tons with the right gear ratio will put you in the 7500 lb rating range, i would probably look at a nice 3/4 so you never half to worry about it.... 4WD will be real nice if your gonna start ramping it too.... with all the new truck incentives lately, used trucks have become almost free, a lot of good ones just sitting around...

haulinvols

Agree, 3/4 ton at least. Four wheel drive if possible, if not, make sure you get a limited slip rear end. I used to tow my boat with a half ton, after purchasing my 3/4, I would never go back. Pulls better, stops better and I feel safer in emergency situations.

Iggy

Don't need more than a 3/4 ton. Just be sure the truck has a factory towing package installed. It will make all the difference.
When selecting a tow vehicle you need to account for the weight of vehicle passengers, gear, and fuel in the boat. If you get a truck with a 7000 lb. towing limit you are only allowing for 1000 lbs. of passengers, fuel, and gear. Way too close.

We tow my 5000 lb. (w/trailer) Formula with a '97 F-250 Ford which has a max limit of 8300 lbs. and a factory towing package. It consists of not only a proper hitch and electrical system, but an engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, extra transmission cooler, larger radiator, larger alternator.

fund razor

Thanks guys. I never ramped the boat because I knew I didn't have enough truck. I did pull it 330 miles once. Long story.

Anyway... I will look around at 3/4 tons with factory packages and see what is out there. Slinging the boat is a drag and I can only do it at my yacht club. I want to leave it in the water less, too. I used to leave my boats in almost all summer. Too much cleaning and running to check the boat.

Since I posted this... 3 guys from Buffalo all want to come see my boat.

Sydwayz

iTrader: (1)

Make sure you check the tow ratings of the truck and the HITCH. Most of the half-tons are rated for 7000-7500 lbs. That is WITH a weight distributing hitch. I agree, you are going to want to be in a 3/4 ton something. Check these threads for more info:

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...d.php?t=113118

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...vy+hitch+balls