towing opinion
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2002
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From: chicago
towing opinion
I need an honest opinion. what would be a better truck to tow with. I have a 79 f-250 reg cab 400 c-6 4x4. also 78 chevrolet c-20 350 4-speed with granny gear. both trucks are kind of rusty. I guess I would say right now the chevy is a little better running condition. as it has a brand new motor. it is also reg cab. I have to go from chicago to dallas to pick up a 26 ft speedboat and trailer it back. I know we love fords, but I need honest opinion for safety, fuel mileage, etc. I was thinking of replacing the hitch on either truck i decide on becaise the hitches are both old and sort of rusty. the boat weighs 4500 lbs plus trailer.
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Joined: Jun 1999
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From: Comox Valley, Canada
towing opinion
Well I would say it depends on the condition of the truck brakes....does the trailer have brakes also?
The 4x4 weighs more so better handling, meaning a little less of the boat pushing
But the 2wd should get better mileage, as it is standard as well the 350 is a better gas "miser" than the 400. Another thought the auto may be easier to tow with but how is the rad and the tranny cooler? Same with the standard how is the rad and the clutch? If the clutch is slippng it may not get the boat moving.
The 4x4 weighs more so better handling, meaning a little less of the boat pushing
But the 2wd should get better mileage, as it is standard as well the 350 is a better gas "miser" than the 400. Another thought the auto may be easier to tow with but how is the rad and the tranny cooler? Same with the standard how is the rad and the clutch? If the clutch is slippng it may not get the boat moving.
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Joined: Jun 1999
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From: Greenville USA
towing opinion
Wow, that's a tough call. The auto will be better to tow with, and the 400 with it's long stroke (longer than a 460) makes a good towing motor. I've had no problems pulling 6000 lbs with mine, made it up and down the hills of Western NC with no trouble.
Gas mileage will be poor with either truck, although it will be so poor 1 mpg could make a 10% difference in fuel cost. Also, whichever turns over less revs at the speed you want to travel, that is probably the one that gets the best fuel mileage.
More than the condition of the engine (tune up parts for either in the event of an emergency are easy to fine) I would be concerned about the condition of the rest of the drivetrain (axle and wheel bearings especially,) the brakes, steering, and interior comfort (does one have cruise, or AC, or a better stereo, or no heat? all important considerations!)
Gas mileage will be poor with either truck, although it will be so poor 1 mpg could make a 10% difference in fuel cost. Also, whichever turns over less revs at the speed you want to travel, that is probably the one that gets the best fuel mileage.
More than the condition of the engine (tune up parts for either in the event of an emergency are easy to fine) I would be concerned about the condition of the rest of the drivetrain (axle and wheel bearings especially,) the brakes, steering, and interior comfort (does one have cruise, or AC, or a better stereo, or no heat? all important considerations!)
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2002
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From: chicago
towing opinion
The chevy has been in the family since new. the drivetrain is in good shape. I believe the ford drivetrain is ok but i have only owned it for 6 months and have not driven it very much. The ford is a 4x4. chevy 2x4. ford has 3.54 gears, no a/c. chevy has a/c. no cruise on either. I am leaning on going with the chevy. The ford is a stronger truck with that torquey 400. The chevy just seems more up to the trip right now. Oh, will the wheels from my ford fit the chevy? ford has brand new tires, and would like to switch before trip. both 8 lug. (ford steel)
