I am new to the forum. I am wondering how big of an engine do I need if I am putting a liftgate on and carrying anywhere from a few hundred lbs to 1000lbs in the bed. And sometimes pulling a trailer with another few hundred lbs. Any recommendations? Thanks !

 

Welcome to FTE.

You can get by with the smallest engine available as long as the vehicle is rated to tow your trailers total weight, and carry your max load.

What year and model vehicle are you looking at?

 

I am looking at all makes and models. My main concern was having a big enough truck to put a liftgate on...1000lb capacity...and not wreck the suspension from too much weight in the bed of the truck. We carry between 300-800lb on average when working.

 

I would look at F250 (nominally "3/4 ton" pickup) type vehicles. You will have a surplus of capacity, but it will be less "bothered" by the added weight of the liftgate. Combined vehicle weight ratings will be a bit in excess of what you need also. The bonus here is these don't cost much more than a lighter truck if you buy right, and they have LT tires and bigger brakes, both of which will last longer and be safer than the car tires and smaller brakes on lighter trucks. As for engines, again, shop around. Base engines (6s and small V8s) are plenty for what you want. Fuel economy differences should be considered, but will be influenced more by your driving habits and routine than by the engine size in most cases. V10s, big V8s and diesels are more money, more expense to maintain, especially the diesel, and are more than you need.