I'm looking into getting a new 6.2 truck, but don't know if its going to be right for me. I have a budget of under $28k and its very likely I will not be able to find a truck with 4.30 gearing for that price, so 3.73s are pretty much it.

This is what I currently have for a truck;
http://fredericksburg.craigslist.org/cto/4924685345.html

It does the job OK, I'm just tired of the noise, harsh ride and the maintenance involved.

This is what I tow fairly regularly and will likely be moving up to a larger 5th wheel in the future;
http://www.crossroadsrv.com/zinger/floorplans/item/2014-zt33bh

In the past, I've owned a '99 F350 V10 that was a complete dog towing a TT that weighed much less than my current one. It was the pre-PI headed engine with 3.73 gearing and a 4R100. Needless to say, it was a recipe for pain. I do not want to end up in the same situation, so I call on you fellow truckers for some much needed insight!

This being said, should I even make this move?

 

I have a '11 6.2 with 3:73s. Our 5th wheel weighs around 10K. Very happy with it's performance pulling the trailer. Just remember, it's a gas engine and needs/wants to rev. In hilly areas I lock out 6th.

I find it almost on par with my previous '08 V10. I attribute that to the 6 speed transmission.

The trailer you are looking at will be fine with the 3:73s.

S

 

You should be fine, and if not later down the road with funds allow change the gears out to 4:30. The 6.2 like the 6.8 both need to run high in the RPM range to produce the HP/TQ numbers. Many people just don't understand that and end up lugging the motor to the point of being displeased with it's performance and abilities.

 

I wouldn't compare the 6.2 to a 99 V10, I've never owed a 99 but have been around them and with 3.73 gears they didn't have much for power. I've owned two 2000 V10 with 4.30 gears and they did a great job pulling our trailer and as a work truck, I also have been around 01 V10 trucks with 3.73 and they no way compared to one equipped with 4.30 gears.

When it comes to the 6.2 the 6 speed makes a big difference in the power delivery, it makes the 3.73 able to pull heavier loads and with 4.30 gears it will out pull our 2000 V10 with 4.30 gears. In your case the 3.73 will work out with the trailer you have.

You are going to be buying without a trade so I would build your truck on the Ford site and send it to multiple dealers and see what price your can get for a new one out the door, you may be surprised at the final price for what you want.

Denny