The debate around whether or not trucks can be upgraded into another weight class is controversial. Some people argue that with the right modifications, like adding leaf springs, heavier-duty brakes, or suspension airbags, trucks can safely and effectively move into a higher weight class. What are your thoughts? Comment below! SUBSCRIBE!! (It’s Free) 👇🏼 urlgeni.us/youtube/channel/KVJA WATCH NEXT! The Reality of RV “Caravans” th-cam.com/play/PLLEgXSjc0_vqrklqvkVS84wUocMSD_ngu.html RV Newbies - START HERE th-cam.com/play/PLLEgXSjc0_vrCuftzoCTWH41d4xJ_mHHN.html Catch up from the Beginning th-cam.com/play/PLLEgXSjc0_vow2OaGgTg5AtkJrlE5Z0TZ.html
Don't feel bad...Went to Costco to get gas and they put diesel in the gas tank...had to get tank emptied and cleaned along with the other 600 cars in the area...Walmart had the same problem
Legally you cannot change the GVWR or GVCWR of a vehicle by adding springs, air bags, etc... Can you tow more safely? Yes, but it's still not "legal"... Call an accident lawyer and just ask them, they will tell you...
All of the things you mention can improve the towing experience but do not change the GVWR of your vehicle. The frame, axles, wheels and tires will determine if you move into a "higher weight class" I am a firm believer in buy the truck you need for the job. If your F350/3500 won't get the job done don't modify it buy the F450/4500. A few years back I was pulling a 40 ft toy hauler so went with a F550. All the things you mention were already on the truck with many you didn't. Axles, rear end size and gearing Dana 135 with 4.88 gearing,, wheels and tires.19.5 in wheels. Outside appearance and interior was no different than a F350. Under the skin was a whole different world right down to the frame. on the F350 frame rails were 36" apart while the F550 were 34" apart. Why? Well I don't know guess we need to ask a Ford design engineer. . In short all of the things you mention do not move your truck into a higher weight class but do change the towing characteristics.
@@mikemckindles4726 I believe what was she described is that the fuel delivery service (tanker) put diesel into the underground unleaded storage tank. What’s called in the industry as a cross drop, miss drop, it happens. You the consumer would never know until after you’ve pumped your fuel and drove a bit. Another good tip to try and get diesel from where the truckers get diesel - those tanks and “drops” are further away from gasoline “drops” so less likely to contaminate/cross drop.
I’m jumping in on the putting gas in a diesel conversation. One night at 3 am traveling with friends we filled up two trucks totally with gas and got back on the interstate. It didn’t take long and saw the white smoke then called back to the station and the attendant said we got diesel however the transporter filled their diesel tank with gas just a few hours before we got there. In the end we got as much gas out as we could and topped off with diesel and added a couple gallons every 20 miles, never had any issue with either truck, one was a Dodge 3500 and the other was Ford F-350. The fuel station owner did say they would cover the cost of engine replacement if we had damage but nothing ever showed up and talking with my distributor friend he believed a 10% mix may not have an issue but we are dealing with pre-DEF vehicles also.
As for DEF (Diesel Emission Fluid) I’m so glad that my truck is older, pre-DEF. (2008 F-450 Super Duty Diesel Dually Crew Cab.) 4.30 rear differential. It pulls our 5th wheel very nicely. (2009 Keystone Montana 3400RL with a king bed.) We love both because they’re paid off, debt free.
I have accidentally put a couple of gallons of gas in my 7.3 diesel. I realized my mistake and just topped off the rest with diesel. I then poured a quart of ATF in the tank. It ran fine. One of the big problems is that diesel engine cylinders need the extra oil that the diesel fuel has in it for lubrication. The old time truck drivers would put a gallon or two of gas per 100 gallons of diesel to help keep it from freezing in the winter months. However I'm not recommending any of this to others.
glad you said this because you don't need to panic over it just add a little tranny fluid and top it off with Fuel. of course 5 or more gallon is a different story.
Mr.Hanks You're not alone.. I put about 20 litres of petrol (gas) in my diesel construction truck, 190ltr tank.. filled up with diesel and she went like a rocket :) .. That was a couple years ago and it's still working hard today and the boss never knew a thing lol.
I'm a gm technician and a guy just dropped his 2023 at4 diesel truck and he put def in the tank. Well he needs an entire fuel system. Everything has to be replaced it's about a 16k bill
Depending how low I am on diesel I put between 1-3 gallons of premium gas in my diesel truck every winter if temperature is below freezing helps start better in extreme cold
11:10 As a service tech for Ford and being very familiar with the 6.7L diesel, I second draining the fuel tank, even after filling with as little as a half gallon of the wrong fuel or DEF. If a measurable amount of contaminated fuel passes through to the high pressure fuel pump, there is a good chance of catastrophic failure of that pump. This in turn fills the high pressure system and fuel injectors with metal shards and ruins them, and WILL cost north of $12,000 to repair, for a Ford that is. Long story short, make sure you always fill up with good, clean fuel and keep up with your fuel filters on a diesel application(every 20k ish miles). These modern diesel engines are super reliable if you just keep up on the maintenance. Just wanted to share some info on what incorrect or contaminated fuel can actually cause for those that don't know😁
Upgrades I made, traded F250 short bed to F450 Dually (night and day better towing). Bought B&W Companion hitch (had a Reese Goosebox/ball)…best hitch on the market. Installed air bags (keeps 5th wheel level and improves towing.) Installed 68 gallon fuel tank ( I can tow all day without refueling and gives me the option to get to campsite, unhook and refuel at any station with diesel). Bought TPMS for all my tires. Bought Garmin RV gps, it avoids any low bridges or tunnels.
Lot's of comments and opinions on gas vs. diesel, as you state. I'm pulling a 26 ft Grand Design 2600 with a '21 GMC 2500 gas 6.6 liter and love it. Been out west twice crossing the mountains, never felt unsafe. I've not had a diesel so cannot compare from experience, but the engine downshifts when it needs to slow down going downhill, I have plenty of power going up the mtns (well, most of the time), and I don't have to mess w/ DEF and DEF sensor failures. and I saved $10k on the buy. yes I've at times hit some slopes I can barely get it to 45-50 mph, but that has not been a huge issue since there's usually a semi in front dragging it up the hill too so I'm not in anyone's way.
Did a 1600 mile trip from Galveston, TX to Jersey shore last year with our ‘15 Silverado 2500 4x2 6.0 towing 35’ 12,000 lb. fifth wheel. Averaged 7.8 for the whole trip including time in the mountains.
Howdy Hanks, we love y’all’s show. Some gas trucks do have engine brake.We have a 2022 F350 7.3l gas dually.Engine brake,trailer brake,48 gallon tank,360 cameras,ultimate tow package with built in anti-sway. The best part is 6675lb PAYLOAD. keep putting out the good videos.
On the down hills you just need to put the transmission in a lower gear, like second or third. You should do this with any vehicle, even a car on the down hill if you are on the brakes too much. I have been towing trailers in CO for years, any vehicle can use an engine brake simply by shifting the transmission into a lower gear.
We had a 2014 RAM 2500 gas truck and hit the rockies. Brakes started overheating along with the engine. Had to switch to a Diesel. The diesel tows better, improved gas mileage (7mpg gas to 11mpg diesel), and downhills we barely use the breaks now with the amazing exhaust brake. Love yalls videos.
I went from Lincoln City, Oregon, to Chewelah washington, over to Kalispell, montana down to Yellowstone back to Lincoln city, Oregon we averaged 12.5 MPG and that through the rocky mountains with a 32ft 5ther with my 2014 ram 3500 with a Cummins a gas truck wouldn't even come close to touching that at all. No def needed. I think the whole trip we put on 3100 miles. We were full of water because we didn't know if we were going to have water where we were going only one camp ground planned.
Nice comparison! We recently got an F-250 with the 7.3L gas engine to tow our Reflection 278BH, and the truck with everything stock has worked flawlessly even when going up steep passes in the Rockies. While doing so, we even averaged 10 mpg, which is very comparable with what you guys got with your diesel. We opted for the Andersen hitch, and it's super easy to connect and disconnect. Also, thanks for pointing out that diesel trucks often (usually?) have LOWER payload capacity than gas trucks because the diesel engine weighs so much more. Yes, the diesel can tow more, but you can't put as much weight in the bed of the truck.
We also have the Godzilla (80k miles) and full-time travel (10k miles towing) with GD MO 351m. We love our truck and will not change it for a diesel. We have the engine brake going downhill, like the exhaust brake. Finding mechanics with gas is more accessible. We did the math between both, and they come really close on overall spending since diesel tends to be more expensive to purchase and maintain, and they retain their value. The great thing is we do have options.
@@gorvyourself It's good to hear that you've had a great experience with the Godzilla engine. Everything I've heard about it and Ford's 10 speed transmission has been very solid. Fully loaded, our rig is just over 10k lbs., so we should have more than enough power for anything we throw at our F250. And yes, the comparative ease of getting work done to gas engines was a factor in our choosing it over a diesel.
Thanks Hanks! I've been an RVer for many many years. I love all these tips. I drive at around 63 mph most of the time. I can tell you that and tire inflation make a really big difference.
I think one of the best things about diesel is fueling from the truck stops. It is real tough to find the right gas pump when towing a 36 foot fifth wheel.
I drive a 30 foot class C and tow a car. The biggest stresser for me is finding a gas pump that is easy in/out since backing up is not an option. Why can't all gas station designers put a gas pump in the diesel island. I'm sure I am not the only person in this situation. Enjoy your videos.
We were told at Holiday Station in Minnesota we could not use the truck side to fill at. We told them we could not safely maneuver the 36’ fifth wheel through the auto side and went across the street to their competitor. 😮
One time when I was hauling corn for my Fire Chief I put Deisel in the Unleaded Fuel truck & stalled out about 5.5 miles from the farm. He wasn't happy, but was glad it was the other way around from Carl's Faux Pas. Also, we got lucky & didn't have any fire calls that day!
You guys are awesome! Learned a lot from your vids. I would have one thing to say regarding DEF DELETE!! Huge difference in truck-better milage, runs like it's supposed too
We drive a 2019 F350 6.2 gas with 430 rear end. We’re very happy with it, but we’re only pulling a 33ft bumper pull. We’ve taken it from Texas to New Jersey and currently on the road to Alaska. Pulled great through northern Arizona, Utah, and now Oregon. We do have engine breaking on the down hill and it works great.
We are considering getting a 33ft. We won’t be towing it as much though. Maybe for a weekend to camp here and there and once a year out of state. Would you recommend it since it will rarely tow?
We started pulling our 5th wheel with a GMC 6.0L gas 2500HD SRW. It did great, and averaged 12mpg. Upgraded to a Chevy 6.6L Duramax 3500HD DRW, averaging 11.2 mpg. That being said, the diesel runs at lower rpm and can even run with the cruise on. Totally diesel for the win.
I started with a Chevy 1500 gasser and finally upgraded to a Chevy 2500HD with the 6.6L Duramax and 10-speed Allison and can't be happier. I love the exhaust brake too. I live in the West and travel up and over the Sierras and my mileage in my new rig is 13-15MPG! Diesel is the best and I can go anywhere with that beast.
Filled up an almost empty tank on an F250 with unleaded at a BP (their unleaded pump handles are green as well). Didn't find that out until we went in to pay. The mobile deisel technician who came out removed the siphon prevention device and basically siphoned out most of it with a little air pressure assist. He told us that if it was only a half tank or less of gas with diesel we could have just added a couple of quarts of motor oil to the tank and driven on. With so much of the tank being unleaded it was better to get some of it out before filling on up with deisel. Truck is still running fine.
Hi Carl. We are full time. Drive a 2019 F350. We stopped at a BP last August (green handles are gas). I grabbed the handle and pumped 2 gallons into the tank before I noticed. I looked up a bunch of stuff and decided to fill up with diesel. We had no problem with the mixture. Actually got a little better fuel mileage. I am very careful to make sure I don't do it again.
Hi Ron! I am so glad to hear that everything worked out ok for you guys. It brings me peace of mind, knowing that I am not the only one that has had the struggle before 😅 thank you for your amazing support and for watching our videos! - Carl and Ney Ney
The best advice I have ever heard for increasing fuel mileage is: "Everyone in favor of better fuel mileage raise your right foot." Words to live by. Keep the goods stuff coming guys. I don't see the Timbrens making any difference in fuel mileage. The things that affect fuel mileage are engine, transmission, differential ratio, tire size and driving style. Suspension parts play no part at all in fuel mileage. The other things that affect fuel mileage are rolling resistance of the truck and trailer and frontal area. There are some very small gains to be made with aerodynamics but they are by and large negligible. Keep the good stuff coming guys.
We have two gas 2500 GMC . A 2015 and 2022. Never owned a diesel. We contemplated going with diesel when purchasing the 2022. Hard to find and not full time. We have a toy hauler trailer under 10,000 pounds fully loaded. We use a pro pride hitch. Amazing hitch! Our 2022 have a function of a break for down hills. Glad you have a GMC 😁
I'm still a gasser. 2 years I pulled a double slide 39' foot 5th. Never had any problems with my gasser. My tow rig was a 88 f350 with a 460 bbf. Didn't matter if I was going up hill or down. It was always 9 mpg.
You guys NAILED IT! We had a gasser and pulled our current bumper pull around Kentucky and Indiana. When plans included going west to the Rockies, we upgraded to a diesel. As long as I tow anything as big as our current RV I will never go back to a gasser. Love your episodes. Hope to see you on the road someday!
As just another experience: I live out West & have a gasser. Ordered my 21' F350 with 7.3l Godzilla gas. Been Rving for ~45+ years (not full time but out every month). Never have had a fear going downhill. The new 10 spd & Tow/Haul mode I rarely use my brakes up & down the Cascades, Siskiyou's, & Tahatchapi grade.. Plenty of power going up & down the hills & mtns. DO NOT want a diesel, drove them for a few years and too many issues the last few years. Initial cost was ~$10k more, fuel is ~$1 a gal more + DEF. On a recent 4400 mile trip to AZ a friend with like rig has a Duramax. He averaged ~1.5 mpg's better. No doubt he has more tq going up hills but I had no issues at all keeping up. If you really want a diesel; get one. Do you really need one? Not with todays gas engines if you're towing under 14-15k #. . If you're towing more than 14-15k #'s then maybe.Too many emission problems, too much cost for me. Removing the emission equipment is not an option for me. It's a Fed offense. Before I ordered my F350; I took a KBB of a F350 from 4 years back equipped the same way except the engine. Was not much difference (percentage) . The accountant in me say's: They depreciate at pretty darn close to the same rate (%), so you're getting more at the end because you paid more upfront. But it still cost you more overall. Had both, no diesel for me again.
I have a 2020 250 with the same engine. I purchased everything during the peak beginning of lockdowns and found the one truck on the other side of the state and it was the first year with the new Godzilla engine. I would have definitely rather had the 350 but it was my only option. I added air bags and my rv is right at 14 dry. That being said I agree with everything you said. This engine wants to do so much more. I went from NE to the SW of the states the first year and a half and the other 1and a half back in PA. Up and down mountains in the Rockies and some super steep places. I cannot say enough about this engine and tranny mix. I have had nothing but great results with this truck. At the same time I have not gotten near 30 thousand miles. So a diesel would be very unhappy sitting that much. Had things not changed so much I would be traveling more but I am confident I made the perfect decision at least for me but cannot say enough about this engine and transmission. I cannot say the mileage is good. That is the downside. Towing i average about 7 mpg. If I take the hitch out and drive from a remote park i average 12-14 but in town stop and go. And it seems like we are doing a lot of sitting at lights these days but that is a whopping 7mpg. Upside is it is a big powerful quiet work truck horse. I love the Chevy and GM foot places to get something in the bed and some other things also. A mix of all the popular features of each in one truck would be sick. Anyway, loved your comment. Well said.
I have the 2021 F250 w/ 7.3 as well. We passed cars going up the mountains all over the west coast. About 9,000 miles over last year with no complaints.
@@Steve-Skinner I too found a F250 around here when inventory was very scarce. The lots only had the $75-90k diesels. I'm too cheap to pay that much for a truck( then & today at least) . I almost settled for the one F250 with 7.3L but it had a 3.55 rear. I've had a 5.4 gas with 3.55 and it did ok, but I wanted a 3.73 . I ordered the F350 because it was the only way to get the 3.73. The F250 & F350 are nut for nut, bolt for bolt the same this year other than one overload leaf spring on the F350. It costs $1700 difference. And you get a legal 1k # more weight carrying capacity. Since I already had a good p/u I didn't see a need to hurry, so I ordered one. The chip shortage hit 2 weeks later & my 6 week build took 7 months. At least I was able to buy it under sticker and not above.
@@herb7877 yes. It was 2020 and they said people were complaining about the rough ride of the 250 so they took a spring out which was the dumbest thing I have ever heard. But it changed the towing for sure. I still want to add a helper spring and added air bags but other than that I have been very happy. Passing on the mountains hauling a 36 foot 5th wheel was awesome for sure. There is far more power than truck. I would have preferred the 350 for the exact reasons you listed had one been available…
I think the GMC did great for fuel mileage. Lift with larger tires does play a roll in mpg. Did you guys weigh in your trucks and rv? I’m curious about how each one weighs. Also maintenance and tire pressure could make a difference in mpg, could you include those too?
Our truck is a GMC Sierra 2003,we took a an eight day trip arrived home safely but found the back shackles for the leaf springs broken on both sides. So needless to say we knew it was time to get a new truck. We ended up with a 2020 GMC SIERRA ELEVATION 5.3L V8 4X4 with big beefy tires and full towing package. It was a lease turned in with less than 30,000. Our RV is a Grand Design Imagine 22reb,dry weight of just over five thousand pounds and tongue weight little over 500.we never travel with water on board and last years cat weigh in we were a one thousand under with the trailer max weight and way under on the truck cargo weight. So this truck is perfect for our rig and no we never plan to go bigger. We love our RV and we love our new truck. It is indeed important to understand all the numbers! Great job you two!!!
I have a Ram 2500 gas engine. My reasoning was to offset cost when not towing. I'm not a full timer. One of the biggest savings is in routine maintenance. A diesel oil change is 15+ qts. Vs. 7 qts. Plus the diesel fuel filter/water separator can run up to $100. If I was doing what your doing I would definitely go diesel. I tow in the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia without a problem. The gas Ram does also have engine breaking. Love your videos.
Nothing beats a Dodge ram for exhaust breaks going down big hills with a big load. They all make nice trucks but haven full control going down the hills. Is icing on the cake.
Hey Hanks, I just wanted to throw a positive gas truck comment in. We have a 2021 F350 Tremor model pickup with a 10 speed transmission and the 7.3 L gas engine. We pull a 12,000 Lb 2021 Keystone Arcadia 5th wheel. No issues at all with the truck. We average 10 MPG. Did you figure the cost of DEF in your numbers?
Hey Hanks, I just wanted to throw a positive gas truck comment in. We have a 2021 F350 Tremor model pickup with a 10 speed transmission and the 7.3 L gas engine. We pull a 12,000 Lb 2021 Keystone Arcadia 5th wheel. No issues at all with the truck. We average 10 MPG.
I have done all those things and the heavy duty 3/4 ton does a great job. However, it doesn’t change the fact of the GVWR that’s on the specifications on the door from the factory.
I just watched this video sitting here in my 2023 F250 with the 7.3L Gas engine, and it has a mass amount of power for towing a camper. Max Tow Rating is 17,300. Also, Ford does have some sort of braking when going down steep grades (not the same as an engine brake but works great). I did my share of driving a real diesel engines in Kenworth, Freightliner, Peterbilt, and international trucks, and I never want to drive a diesel again unless it is for making money; especially now that you have to add DEF. I do enjoy your videos!
We run a gmc 3500 dually that is diesel and we tow a 40 foot toyhauler. We went and cat scale and found even with the razor in the back we are still under weight, but we also only put water in it when we boondock as it has a 165 gallons fresh water and that would put us at capacity for weight. Now hubby is an OTR truck driver so is very cognizant of weight distribution. He also has 3 million miles under his belt so thankfully he knows a thing or two. We had a class a and we actually get better fuel mileage with the 1 ton dually and they were both diesel.
I had my 2019 Ram with the HO diesel "deleted" with less than 300 miles on it. So I'm not paying $3 a gallon for cow urine! And at approx 14:43, your pics showed the highest MPG as a little above 10. I consistently set my cruise 5 mph over the posted speed limit and average more than that (last trip to Utah from western GA and back my avg was 12.3 on the dash and 12.1 in the Milekeeper app) towing my 25k fifth wheel toyhauler! And the truck tows, that's it! I use the motorcycle for anything else.
14:29- Who's catching up to me? Haha!! We are still loving the Class A life but, if we ever get another RV a 5th wheel is high on the list. So, this has been great info to take in account in our potential future! Great episode as always. Thanks Hanks! -Danette and Speed
I feel like we’ve all been there…. we used to have a diesel SUV. All good, used to the green handle at gas stations… and then we stopped at a BP after having run a half marathon. Little tired…. BP uses green handles for gas, black for diesel. I pumped a full tank.😮
As a suggestion, get an extension cord for your 7 pin cable for your truck. Plug in and run the truck while using your auto-level system. It will help. 👊🏼
Ran over to Indianapolis for cleetus and cars last weekend about 550 miles round trip 21 f350 c.c.8 ft bed 7.3 gas 4.30 rear pulling 43 ft 3 axle toyhauler ran 70-75&80 mph there and pushing wind and storms average mpg was 8 mpg I'm happy with that
As a mechanic who has had to remedy the situation of a person filling their vehicle with gasoline instead of diesel, you are correct in saying do not turn the key on. it will make the job much more difficult because then the lines will have to be flushed, instead of just draining the fuel tank. and starting it will at least cost you injectors and a pump, and maybe even your engine
We had a 1997 F 350. great truck and we had it for 20 years for 350000 miles. So much camping. But it was loud and very smelly. We now have an F350 2019 diesel long box. Give me the DEF any day.
Glad you changed the title lmao! We have a (deleted and tuned) 2015 Ram 6.7 Cummins with a full Banks upgrade, 2 1/2 front lift, airbags in rear, 35 inch Toyo RT tires, cold air intake, Fass fuel system, EFI live, ETC, that pulls our 41 foot toy hauler fifth wheel, with Kawasaki side by side, Total trailer weight fully loaded is around 14-15000. and makes crazy good numbers (18+ MPG while towing) and miles between fuel stops, probably helps having 80 gallons on board (45 gallon aux tank). great video love y'alls content don't change.
I’ve had both gas and diesel. I’d never be able to go back to gas. I have a 2016 F350 dually, with the exhaust brake and true tow/haul mode, the diesel wins hands down. Love you guys, keep the videos coming. 👊🏼
We have a 2021 Ford F250 with the gas Godzilla engine. Pulled a 33’ travel trailer in the west with no issues. Went over the I70 mountain pass out of Denver with no problems. The truck does have engine braking.
I have a 2020 Silverado 3500 with 6.6L gas engine. Pulling a 42 ft Solitude 375RES. B&W Champion Hitch. 18” Michelin tires, which came on the unit. No other modifications. We have no problems towing, even going down steep grades. The pickup does have exhaust brakes. That is a life saver. We average about 8 miles/gal, which is almost identical to what we got towing a 34 foot Forest River Windjammer pull behind. We usually travel about 67mph on Highway. Just to let you know our experience with a gas engine.
As far as the gasoline in the diesel, truckers used to put a gallon of gas in their diesel big diesel tanks up in the colder climates to keep it from gelling up
I'm bulletproofing a 6.4 right now just so I can do exactly this. You two are me and my wifes heros. ❤❤❤❤ Gogogogo. Diesel is the only way to go with towing. Freedom of Life. We have a 31 footer and it's fully customized. Incinerator toilet and all custom bunks for the kids etc. The works. Thanks for all you guys do! We're getting to our dreams because of your perseverance! Don't stop. You're the next big TH-cam thing.
First of all, I really enjoy your videos. I am a retired truck driver. If it were me, I would have a business class freightliner or Peterbilt single axle with air ride and smallDetroit engine. get the best mileage as of right now I have a 2020 F150, ..5 L gas with a 10 speed transmission. I also have a 2020 Coleman lantern. It’s about 23,24 feet overall I pull 25 miles. And then park it for three months if I had a rig as big as yours, I would definitely go with diesel, but with my little weekender we do fine with gas happy trails y’all
We towed with a half-ton gas truck but we were at the upper limit for payload. It really helped when I put LT truck tires on it. We now have a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD with the 6.6L Duramax and the 10-speed. Definitely NOT going back to a gas truck for towing! This this is a beast in the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. Plus it is very easy and pleasant to drive. As delivered paylod was 3400 lbs but with us, Mr. Onions the Wonder Cat, running boards, and a hard tonneau cover, it's below 3000 lbs now. Still not unhappy. Oh and diesel around here is near or below regular gas prices. Finally! Safe travels, y'all! Bob and Dottie!
Picked out our camper first then bought a vehicle sizable to pull it. We bought our first camper, a 2022 Jayco Jay Feather (approximately 4500 lbs) and intended to tow it with a 2001 Toyota Tundra 1500. The camper was too much for the Toyota, even on the way home from the dealership so you know we had no extra weight added to it yet. We parked the camper under the lien-to at the barn and started online shopping for a larger truck. We ended up getting a 2012 Chevy Suburban LS 2500 (ex fleet vehicle) and it is perfect to pull our Jayco.
I love how Kyle, aka , Karl says D.E.F. lol all us truck drivers just say Def. I'm a new watcher of you're videos and they are very entertaining, keep up the good work.
Pretty good comparison. Would have been interesting to compare the weights as well. Dont feel bad about the gas, at least you were smart enough you caught it quickly and didnt start it. Keep having fun!
The debate about gas or diesel is subjective at best! Just like you, I say rock what you’ve got! Both have their overall strengths and weaknesses. Having driven both types of trucks, I definitely appreciate a truck that has an abundance of torque and total towing capacity. My 2015 Ram 3500 DRW with the 6.7L HO Diesel engine has a total 25K towing capacity and 1K ft/lbs of engine torque! It easily handles our 38 ft 5th wheel that has a 15K unladen weight. Additionally, I have the Timbren adjustable suspension bump stops on both trailer and truck. Makes a significant ride performance of both truck and trailer! You can also say that the suspension addition is an additional safety factor which is a key factor in towing your rig. Also towing I get excellent fuel mpg’s at 10.5 at 55mph, and 10.2 at 62-65 mph. With a 68 gallon fuel tank gives a range of 680 + miles per tank. Gotta love that! Keep em rolling guys👍🏻
Delete something on that truck!!!! I did on my 14 dually ram. I added 75hp and around the same in the torque plus had the 4 inch straight pipe without the muffler, I recommend muffler. It was pretty obnoxious loud! But getting up to 18mpg with my 43 foor/16,000 pounder behind it was nice with it's original 32 gallon tank.
We really enjoy your channel keep up the fun videos, makes us want to get out on the road. Wanted to let you know you missed a few stats on this video. 1. Fords and Dodge’s are way better looking trucks than GMC's! 2. Your GMC has an Isuzu motor, boo. Makes your chevy not a chevy 3. Your GMC has an Allison designed transmission Makes your chevy not a chevy (PS Allisons are great tranis) 4. Your GMC cost way to much for a foreign rig. 5. You need to get a DOG😊 Other than those 5 things you guys are perfect! Scott
I’ve done a DEF delete along with a tune and added cold air intake on my 2011 Ford F350 and picked up an extra 4.5 miles per gallon. I running a flatbed on my dually and I’m towing a 2015 Heartland Big Horn 3610 RL weighting in at 13,000 lbs. Our normal towing speed is 65 to 68 mph. All this and even eliminate my cost for def. Great job guys breaking down all the stats. Safe travel!!
Obviously up to you, but modifying emissions control systems is illegal and there are cases (not very many) where people have been forced to reinstall or scrap their truck.
Here's hoping that you don't ever need any engine work. If a Ford shop finds you've done the delete (and the analyzer WILL tell them), your truck will be blacklisted. Any shop that works on your truck, knowing that the emissions system has been modified, is subject to a BIG fine.
Would you consider removing the catalytic converter from your gas vehicle, which really is the same as doing a DEF delete. It's all about air quality and polution. Yes DEF is a pain in the ass but so is lung cancer.
I've got a 2019 Ram 1500 with a 5.7l gas engine and 3.21 rear diff. I tow a 6,800lb travel trailer with no issues. I do have Airlift airbags in the rear to help with sag and LT load range E tires and weight distribution hitch with sway control. I get about 8 mpg on the hilly runs and 10 mpg on the flatter terrain. I do have to say though I feel it when we catch a good crosswind. We are weekend worriers so the truck is a daily driver
Air bags keep the truck/camper looking level but really helps more for braking and stirring. Distributing weight leveraging the weight evenly on the front and back tires as much as possible so your stir wheel doesn’t feel like it’s floating and your front tires have more surface area on the pavement for stopping/braking, giving you more control. Most of the time it’s only about a two inch lift to level. 2017 Nissan Titan XD Diesel and 2021 Grand Design Reflection 337. About 10 tons of weight rolling down the Hwy. Diesels Rock 🤘😎
One gallon of gas in your diesel tank would not have hurt it, you could have just filled the rest up with diesel. It used to be a common practice in the winter to add a bit of gas into diesel to keep the fuel from gelling up.
Engine brakes? He's referring to the exhaust brake. I also have the 3.5 ecoboost and it's not the engine braking, the trans is just downshifting and holds RPMs instead of re-up shifting while you add gas on/off until you're level again and it up shifts back to your prior gear.
I think it would have been great if you had a friend join you who had a modern gas tow rig for comparison. I have always said each engine option has its place and use. Personally we have an '22 F350 with the 7.3L and 4.30 axle to pull our Reflection 311BHS and it is a good setup in my opinion. We are "weekend warriors" so for us and our use a diesel did not make sense. If we were full timers like HappilyEverHanks, then a diesel truck would be a much more compelling option.
I purchased a new gas 2500 HD Chevy in 2014. In 2015 we decided to purchase a new 5th wheel instead of a tow behind. Towed the 33" Sanibel a few years including 2 1700 mile trips down south. Decided to buy a new truck in 2019 and went diesel ( all crew cabs ). Only had it 5 days and we hooked up on a 1700 mile trip. Even my wife made comments on how much better it pulled the camper. I will never go back to gas unless we give up camping ( and doubt that will happen ! ). Bought another new Chevy 2500 High Country diesel late last year, and each one has been better on towing and handling than the previous. Diesel rules!!!
I’m with Carl mostly on tires. Heat and age/cracks within tires really expand and create weakness and blow outs. I drove cross country. And when on North South runs which ever state Heated up first there were more tire tread/recaps all over the road. 20:56 commonly know as GATOR. Tire pressure in cold state heated up further south we drove - heat/speed/pressure
Thanks for your videos and the great fun you obviously have in making them! Plus, you're sharing some great info! We have a 2013 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 6.6 Duramax Crew Cab with the standard box. As we are 5th wheel shopping and learning, I am trying to be careful about pin weight and the payload capacity of the truck, especially since we are toy hauler shopping! Our yellow specs sticker reads 2553 lbs of payload capacity. So, that really makes getting a lighter 5th wheel a challenge. Can you share more about your situation and experience concerning your pin weight with your truck and it's effect on your long hauls? Blessings & thanks!!!
Thank you very much for taking the time to say this! This is a great topic and we appreciate you sharing this with us Hopefully in the near future, we can make a great detailed video about this. We appreciate all your support for watching our videos 😃 - Kyle and Renee
We have been pulling a travel trailer for 25 plus years with a gas ⛽️ truck but in 2015 we moved to a GMC Sierra Denali which is diesel. Well in 2016 my husband poured gas in the tank and ran the engine. Needless to say $15,000 dollars later they had to clean everything out. Sad day and he will never make that mistake again. I feel for you Kyle, but we learn from out mistakes and move on. You are not alone. Keep marching forward. One for the 📚and a story to tell to the grandchildren.
I pumped about 2 gallons of gasoline into a auxiliary fuel tank on a 2008 GMC 6.6 duramax . I topped it off with diesel, drove 700 hundred miles home, by continuing to alternate between the factory tank and the auxiliary tank. No problems. But after I had been home about a month, the diesel exhaust particulate system failed, and had to be replaced. Luckily the epa warranty covered the cost !
We have a Diesel Revel Sprinter van. We always fill DEF at the truckstop pump with the discount card. Way easier than hauling around a container of DEF in the back. We have friends who don't trust the DEF at the pump. I'm like, "where are all the broken down semis down the interstate if the truckstop DEF is bad?"
Running 2017 Ram 3500mega cab dually towing 2019 solitude 41ft. Added airbags for ride only. By adding about 40lbs of air to the system the truck rides level and actually cushions the ride on rough roads. The only upgrade done, but according to the wife money well spent . I highly recommend air bags to anyone towing a fifth wheel
For smaller hauls (6-9K) we rock the twin turbo V6 Ford 360hp 20 mpg when you’re not towing and an average 8-10 mpg. Saving money on the majority of miles logged equals more $ saved in the long term
You did one time,my husband did it twice put a 1/2 first time full it up second time. He did not start the truck but it was expensive. So don't feel bad. Love your videos.
I really love all the new trucks... BUT, Always a BUT, I will keep driving my 2001 7.3 diesel flat bed 4x4 4dr. with over 303 thousand miles on it and only thing I've done is new up pipes. for the cost of a new truck I could replace my engine 6 times. I pull a 2001 Coachman 38 ft 12,500 lb trailer get 10 mpg. Its all how you take care of your trailer and tow vehicle. Great Video keep it up. Cheers
I drive big rigs for a living and many old school drivers will use a gallon of gas or 2 in there tanks to keep them from freezing during winter! Putting a gallon in of gas in your diesel may make it smoke more then normal but odds are it wouldn’t hurt it. More then that maybe or probably.also I know many people that have used the wrong because of the pump handler color
KO2s are awesome. My favorite tire. But I have heard so many horror stories on lifted trucks and got they ride and tow. Glad that you have had a great experience
I was listening to a local radio station yesterday and one of the hosts was talking about putting “gasoline” in his “diesel” truck. He filled up his truck (27 gallons) and started to drive it. He quickly realized what he had done and stopped as soon as he could pull off the highway. Long story short, it cost him $4,000 to drain, clean the system and pumps plus towing.
Like you, we've towed with both. Our Ram 6.7 Cummins tows our 35ft 5er like butter. Numbers are similar to what you all got. Our trips vary from 60 miles to the beach to 1500 to see the kids in Cali. I don't think we could have done it with gas. We do tend to go a little faster across W. Texas, tho. Great series about your caravan.
Took a trip from California to Texas and back in are 2018 2500 Ram 4x4 diesel pulling a 35 ft fifth wheel. We averaged 11.1 going across the i40 to Texas driving 70 mph. On the way back driving 60 mph and got 12.2 going back on the i10 to California. The truck seems to get the best fuel mileage at 61 miles an hour.
@@socapaul We go from the Houston area across I10. It's 80 from west of Kerrville to El Paso. We don't go 80 but it's a looooong way so we go 70 (+?) for that stretch and it's tiring. We can only make it to Ft. Stockton the first day. Then Tucson, then SoCal. Great news tho. The kids are moving back to the Central Time Zone!
We have a 2020 Chevy 3500 SRW with the 6.6 gas that we tow our Reflection 341RDS with. We chose to go with the gas engine for the fact that we don't tow often enough to justify the extra cost of a diesel. In the summer we tow our camper to our seasonal spot in MN & leave it there for the camping season. We have done a few shorter trips with our setup & have done one big trip this past November. That trip was about a 3600 mile round trip from MN to Camp Margaritaville in Auburndale, FL. Our truck did great for that trip, although if & when we get the chance to travel more as full time RVer's.... We will probably make the transition to a diesel truck. At that point I believe the benefits of a diesel truck will far outweigh the extra cost. Another great video guys. Thank you for taking the time to produce your content.
we have 2021 45' road warrior toy huller 4275rw and we pull it with 2016 Kenworth t680 single 'ed rear axle 9.4 mpg and 200 gallon fuel capacity I compare it to a 3/4 ton pulling a john boat and the no more butt pucker on steep down hill grades or emergency braking no more getting blown around by big rigs passing and cost less to buy than new 3/4 or 1 ton trucks not wore out at the end of a long drive air ride suspension cab and seats and can see farther down the road the only draw back is we cant go thru a drive thru go with hdt and never look back
Great video guys and thanks for the info! I've had both gas and diesel trucks pulling my RVs. In my opinion, hands down, diesel truck is the way to go if you plan on doing a lot of towing. Diesel trucks handle hills much better and the truck doesn't seem to have to shift up and down so much. I just last year replaced my 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty (6.3L International motor) that had 310,000 miles with a 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 6.7 Power Stroke. Really mixed emotions letting go of the other truck, because it was still tight, everything worked and it ran like a champ. I think my wife had second thoughts about selling more than me. The new truck has a 6" lift with 37" tires. I did add air bags to level out everything (toy hauler bumper pull) and put a 51 gallon fuel transfer tank in the bed behind the cab, plus also added a tonneau cover. So far we've made several trips with it. The first was your rally in Auburndale and the Smokey Mountains National Park with no issues and it did great on the hills. I was a little apprehensive about the lift and big tires, but was glad to see that your truck did well. Just my take. All the best to you, keep the videos coming, we enjoy them very much!
The debate around whether or not trucks can be upgraded into another weight class is controversial. Some people argue that with the right modifications, like adding leaf springs, heavier-duty brakes, or suspension airbags, trucks can safely and effectively move into a higher weight class.
What are your thoughts? Comment below!
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Don't feel bad...Went to Costco to get gas and they put diesel in the gas tank...had to get tank emptied and cleaned along with the other 600 cars in the area...Walmart had the same problem
Legally you cannot change the GVWR or GVCWR of a vehicle by adding springs, air bags, etc... Can you tow more safely? Yes, but it's still not "legal"... Call an accident lawyer and just ask them, they will tell you...
All of the things you mention can improve the towing experience but do not change the GVWR of your vehicle. The frame, axles, wheels and tires will determine if you move into a "higher weight class" I am a firm believer in buy the truck you need for the job. If your F350/3500 won't get the job done don't modify it buy the F450/4500. A few years back I was pulling a 40 ft toy hauler so went with a F550. All the things you mention were already on the truck with many you didn't. Axles, rear end size and gearing Dana 135 with 4.88 gearing,, wheels and tires.19.5 in wheels. Outside appearance and interior was no different than a F350. Under the skin was a whole different world right down to the frame. on the F350 frame rails were 36" apart while the F550 were 34" apart. Why? Well I don't know guess we need to ask a Ford design engineer. . In short all of the things you mention do not move your truck into a higher weight class but do change the towing characteristics.
@@brendagray1413 I wasn't aware Costco would pump your gas for you.
@@mikemckindles4726 I believe what was she described is that the fuel delivery service (tanker) put diesel into the underground unleaded storage tank. What’s called in the industry as a cross drop, miss drop, it happens. You the consumer would never know until after you’ve pumped your fuel and drove a bit. Another good tip to try and get diesel from where the truckers get diesel - those tanks and “drops” are further away from gasoline “drops” so less likely to contaminate/cross drop.
I’m jumping in on the putting gas in a diesel conversation. One night at 3 am traveling with friends we filled up two trucks totally with gas and got back on the interstate. It didn’t take long and saw the white smoke then called back to the station and the attendant said we got diesel however the transporter filled their diesel tank with gas just a few hours before we got there. In the end we got as much gas out as we could and topped off with diesel and added a couple gallons every 20 miles, never had any issue with either truck, one was a Dodge 3500 and the other was Ford F-350. The fuel station owner did say they would cover the cost of engine replacement if we had damage but nothing ever showed up and talking with my distributor friend he believed a 10% mix may not have an issue but we are dealing with pre-DEF vehicles also.
It’s not the end of the world that’s for sure
We’re planning on RVing with 3 kids all under 4. Pray for us 😂😂 1:02
I think speed is probably the biggest factor when it comes to gas mileage. Slow and steady will always be better.
As for DEF (Diesel Emission Fluid) I’m so glad that my truck is older, pre-DEF. (2008 F-450 Super Duty Diesel Dually Crew Cab.) 4.30 rear differential. It pulls our 5th wheel very nicely. (2009 Keystone Montana 3400RL with a king bed.) We love both because they’re paid off, debt free.
You be the first person to call it diesel emission fluid 💁♂️ diesel exhaust fluid is what it’s call though
@@kevink4914 yep says right on boxes/jugs/pumps - exhaust fluid. As long as everyone gets the right stuff, DEF
Some people would rather have DEF than a 6.4L time bomb.
I have accidentally put a couple of gallons of gas in my 7.3 diesel. I realized my mistake and just topped off the rest with diesel. I then poured a quart of ATF in the tank. It ran fine. One of the big problems is that diesel engine cylinders need the extra oil that the diesel fuel has in it for lubrication. The old time truck drivers would put a gallon or two of gas per 100 gallons of diesel to help keep it from freezing in the winter months. However I'm not recommending any of this to others.
glad you said this because you don't need to panic over it just add a little tranny fluid and top it off with Fuel. of course 5 or more gallon is a different story.
@@stevenkern5659
"Tranny fluid"? How is bud light going to help?
I used to put 1 gallon of gas in my diesel in the winter time to keep from gelling 9:44
Mr.Hanks You're not alone.. I put about 20 litres of petrol (gas) in my diesel construction truck, 190ltr tank.. filled up with diesel and she went like a rocket :) .. That was a couple years ago and it's still working hard today and the boss never knew a thing lol.
I'm a gm technician and a guy just dropped his 2023 at4 diesel truck and he put def in the tank. Well he needs an entire fuel system. Everything has to be replaced it's about a 16k bill
Depending how low I am on diesel I put between 1-3 gallons of premium gas in my diesel truck every winter if temperature is below freezing helps start better in extreme cold
11:10 As a service tech for Ford and being very familiar with the 6.7L diesel, I second draining the fuel tank, even after filling with as little as a half gallon of the wrong fuel or DEF. If a measurable amount of contaminated fuel passes through to the high pressure fuel pump, there is a good chance of catastrophic failure of that pump. This in turn fills the high pressure system and fuel injectors with metal shards and ruins them, and WILL cost north of $12,000 to repair, for a Ford that is.
Long story short, make sure you always fill up with good, clean fuel and keep up with your fuel filters on a diesel application(every 20k ish miles). These modern diesel engines are super reliable if you just keep up on the maintenance.
Just wanted to share some info on what incorrect or contaminated fuel can actually cause for those that don't know😁
Upgrades I made, traded F250 short bed to F450 Dually (night and day better towing). Bought B&W Companion hitch (had a Reese Goosebox/ball)…best hitch on the market. Installed air bags (keeps 5th wheel level and improves towing.) Installed 68 gallon fuel tank ( I can tow all day without refueling and gives me the option to get to campsite, unhook and refuel at any station with diesel). Bought TPMS for all my tires. Bought Garmin RV gps, it avoids any low bridges or tunnels.
Lot's of comments and opinions on gas vs. diesel, as you state. I'm pulling a 26 ft Grand Design 2600 with a '21 GMC 2500 gas 6.6 liter and love it. Been out west twice crossing the mountains, never felt unsafe. I've not had a diesel so cannot compare from experience, but the engine downshifts when it needs to slow down going downhill, I have plenty of power going up the mtns (well, most of the time), and I don't have to mess w/ DEF and DEF sensor failures. and I saved $10k on the buy. yes I've at times hit some slopes I can barely get it to 45-50 mph, but that has not been a huge issue since there's usually a semi in front dragging it up the hill too so I'm not in anyone's way.
Did a 1600 mile trip from Galveston, TX to Jersey shore last year with our ‘15 Silverado 2500 4x2 6.0 towing 35’ 12,000 lb. fifth wheel. Averaged 7.8 for the whole trip including time in the mountains.
Howdy Hanks, we love y’all’s show. Some gas trucks do have engine brake.We have a 2022 F350 7.3l gas dually.Engine brake,trailer brake,48 gallon tank,360 cameras,ultimate tow package with built in anti-sway. The best part is 6675lb PAYLOAD. keep putting out the good videos.
On the down hills you just need to put the transmission in a lower gear, like second or third. You should do this with any vehicle, even a car on the down hill if you are on the brakes too much. I have been towing trailers in CO for years, any vehicle can use an engine brake simply by shifting the transmission into a lower gear.
You are not alone, a friend of mine did the same and had to pay a hefty price for the mistake of putting gas instead of diesel.
We had a 2014 RAM 2500 gas truck and hit the rockies. Brakes started overheating along with the engine. Had to switch to a Diesel. The diesel tows better, improved gas mileage (7mpg gas to 11mpg diesel), and downhills we barely use the breaks now with the amazing exhaust brake. Love yalls videos.
I went from Lincoln City, Oregon, to Chewelah washington, over to Kalispell, montana down to Yellowstone back to Lincoln city, Oregon we averaged 12.5 MPG and that through the rocky mountains with a 32ft 5ther with my 2014 ram 3500 with a Cummins a gas truck wouldn't even come close to touching that at all. No def needed. I think the whole trip we put on 3100 miles. We were full of water because we didn't know if we were going to have water where we were going only one camp ground planned.
Nice comparison! We recently got an F-250 with the 7.3L gas engine to tow our Reflection 278BH, and the truck with everything stock has worked flawlessly even when going up steep passes in the Rockies. While doing so, we even averaged 10 mpg, which is very comparable with what you guys got with your diesel. We opted for the Andersen hitch, and it's super easy to connect and disconnect.
Also, thanks for pointing out that diesel trucks often (usually?) have LOWER payload capacity than gas trucks because the diesel engine weighs so much more. Yes, the diesel can tow more, but you can't put as much weight in the bed of the truck.
We also have the Godzilla (80k miles) and full-time travel (10k miles towing) with GD MO 351m. We love our truck and will not change it for a diesel. We have the engine brake going downhill, like the exhaust brake. Finding mechanics with gas is more accessible. We did the math between both, and they come really close on overall spending since diesel tends to be more expensive to purchase and maintain, and they retain their value. The great thing is we do have options.
@@gorvyourself It's good to hear that you've had a great experience with the Godzilla engine. Everything I've heard about it and Ford's 10 speed transmission has been very solid. Fully loaded, our rig is just over 10k lbs., so we should have more than enough power for anything we throw at our F250. And yes, the comparative ease of getting work done to gas engines was a factor in our choosing it over a diesel.
Thanks Hanks! I've been an RVer for many many years. I love all these tips. I drive at around 63 mph most of the time. I can tell you that and tire inflation make a really big difference.
I think one of the best things about diesel is fueling from the truck stops. It is real tough to find the right gas pump when towing a 36 foot fifth wheel.
I drive a 30 foot class C and tow a car. The biggest stresser for me is finding a gas pump that is easy in/out since backing up is not an option. Why can't all gas station designers put a gas pump in the diesel island. I'm sure I am not the only person in this situation. Enjoy your videos.
It's the main reason we went diesel
Not the main reason we switched to a diesel, but definitely one of the reasons. Pulling into a gas station was a big PIA!
We were told at Holiday Station in Minnesota we could not use the truck side to fill at. We told them we could not safely maneuver the 36’ fifth wheel through the auto side and went across the street to their competitor. 😮
One time when I was hauling corn for my Fire Chief I put Deisel in the Unleaded Fuel truck & stalled out about 5.5 miles from the farm.
He wasn't happy, but was glad it was the other way around from Carl's Faux Pas. Also, we got lucky & didn't have any fire calls that day!
You guys are awesome! Learned a lot from your vids. I would have one thing to say regarding DEF DELETE!! Huge difference in truck-better milage, runs like it's supposed too
I'm glad you made liking these videos free, it was way too expensive before!
We drive a 2019 F350 6.2 gas with 430 rear end. We’re very happy with it, but we’re only pulling a 33ft bumper pull. We’ve taken it from Texas to New Jersey and currently on the road to Alaska. Pulled great through northern Arizona, Utah, and now Oregon. We do have engine breaking on the down hill and it works great.
We are considering getting a 33ft. We won’t be towing it as much though. Maybe for a weekend to camp here and there and once a year out of state. Would you recommend it since it will rarely tow?
We started pulling our 5th wheel with a GMC 6.0L gas 2500HD SRW. It did great, and averaged 12mpg. Upgraded to a Chevy 6.6L Duramax 3500HD DRW, averaging 11.2 mpg. That being said, the diesel runs at lower rpm and can even run with the cruise on. Totally diesel for the win.
I started with a Chevy 1500 gasser and finally upgraded to a Chevy 2500HD with the 6.6L Duramax and 10-speed Allison and can't be happier. I love the exhaust brake too. I live in the West and travel up and over the Sierras and my mileage in my new rig is 13-15MPG! Diesel is the best and I can go anywhere with that beast.
Filled up an almost empty tank on an F250 with unleaded at a BP (their unleaded pump handles are green as well). Didn't find that out until we went in to pay. The mobile deisel technician who came out removed the siphon prevention device and basically siphoned out most of it with a little air pressure assist. He told us that if it was only a half tank or less of gas with diesel we could have just added a couple of quarts of motor oil to the tank and driven on. With so much of the tank being unleaded it was better to get some of it out before filling on up with deisel. Truck is still running fine.
Hi Carl. We are full time. Drive a 2019 F350. We stopped at a BP last August (green handles are gas). I grabbed the handle and pumped 2 gallons into the tank before I noticed. I looked up a bunch of stuff and decided to fill up with diesel. We had no problem with the mixture. Actually got a little better fuel mileage. I am very careful to make sure I don't do it again.
Hi Ron! I am so glad to hear that everything worked out ok for you guys. It brings me peace of mind, knowing that I am not the only one that has had the struggle before 😅 thank you for your amazing support and for watching our videos! - Carl and Ney Ney
The best advice I have ever heard for increasing fuel mileage is: "Everyone in favor of better fuel mileage raise your right foot." Words to live by. Keep the goods stuff coming guys. I don't see the Timbrens making any difference in fuel mileage. The things that affect fuel mileage are engine, transmission, differential ratio, tire size and driving style. Suspension parts play no part at all in fuel mileage. The other things that affect fuel mileage are rolling resistance of the truck and trailer and frontal area. There are some very small gains to be made with aerodynamics but they are by and large negligible. Keep the good stuff coming guys.
We have two gas 2500 GMC . A 2015 and 2022. Never owned a diesel. We contemplated going with diesel when purchasing the 2022. Hard to find and not full time. We have a toy hauler trailer under 10,000 pounds fully loaded. We use a pro pride hitch. Amazing hitch! Our 2022 have a function of a break for down hills. Glad you have a GMC 😁
I'm still a gasser. 2 years I pulled a double slide 39' foot 5th. Never had any problems with my gasser. My tow rig was a 88 f350 with a 460 bbf. Didn't matter if I was going up hill or down. It was always 9 mpg.
You guys NAILED IT! We had a gasser and pulled our current bumper pull around Kentucky and Indiana. When plans included going west to the Rockies, we upgraded to a diesel. As long as I tow anything as big as our current RV I will never go back to a gasser. Love your episodes. Hope to see you on the road someday!
Thank you for sharing your experience, Tony! We appreciate you! Safe travels!
Appreciate the time and effort you put into your content.
As just another experience: I live out West & have a gasser. Ordered my 21' F350 with 7.3l Godzilla gas. Been Rving for ~45+ years (not full time but out every month). Never have had a fear going downhill. The new 10 spd & Tow/Haul mode I rarely use my brakes up & down the Cascades, Siskiyou's, & Tahatchapi grade.. Plenty of power going up & down the hills & mtns. DO NOT want a diesel, drove them for a few years and too many issues the last few years. Initial cost was ~$10k more, fuel is ~$1 a gal more + DEF. On a recent 4400 mile trip to AZ a friend with like rig has a Duramax. He averaged ~1.5 mpg's better. No doubt he has more tq going up hills but I had no issues at all keeping up. If you really want a diesel; get one. Do you really need one? Not with todays gas engines if you're towing under 14-15k #. . If you're towing more than 14-15k #'s then maybe.Too many emission problems, too much cost for me. Removing the emission equipment is not an option for me. It's a Fed offense. Before I ordered my F350; I took a KBB of a F350 from 4 years back equipped the same way except the engine. Was not much difference (percentage) . The accountant in me say's: They depreciate at pretty darn close to the same rate (%), so you're getting more at the end because you paid more upfront. But it still cost you more overall. Had both, no diesel for me again.
I have a 2020 250 with the same engine. I purchased everything during the peak beginning of lockdowns and found the one truck on the other side of the state and it was the first year with the new Godzilla engine. I would have definitely rather had the 350 but it was my only option. I added air bags and my rv is right at 14 dry.
That being said I agree with everything you said. This engine wants to do so much more. I went from NE to the SW of the states the first year and a half and the other 1and a half back in PA. Up and down mountains in the Rockies and some super steep places. I cannot say enough about this engine and tranny mix. I have had nothing but great results with this truck. At the same time I have not gotten near 30 thousand miles. So a diesel would be very unhappy sitting that much. Had things not changed so much I would be traveling more but I am confident I made the perfect decision at least for me but cannot say enough about this engine and transmission.
I cannot say the mileage is good. That is the downside. Towing i average about 7 mpg. If I take the hitch out and drive from a remote park i average 12-14 but in town stop and go. And it seems like we are doing a lot of sitting at lights these days but that is a whopping 7mpg.
Upside is it is a big powerful quiet work truck horse.
I love the Chevy and GM foot places to get something in the bed and some other things also. A mix of all the popular features of each in one truck would be sick. Anyway, loved your comment. Well said.
Those aint mountains.
I have the 2021 F250 w/ 7.3 as well. We passed cars going up the mountains all over the west coast. About 9,000 miles over last year with no complaints.
@@Steve-Skinner I too found a F250 around here when inventory was very scarce. The lots only had the $75-90k diesels. I'm too cheap to pay that much for a truck( then & today at least) . I almost settled for the one F250 with 7.3L but it had a 3.55 rear. I've had a 5.4 gas with 3.55 and it did ok, but I wanted a 3.73 . I ordered the F350 because it was the only way to get the 3.73. The F250 & F350 are nut for nut, bolt for bolt the same this year other than one overload leaf spring on the F350. It costs $1700 difference. And you get a legal 1k # more weight carrying capacity. Since I already had a good p/u I didn't see a need to hurry, so I ordered one. The chip shortage hit 2 weeks later & my 6 week build took 7 months. At least I was able to buy it under sticker and not above.
@@herb7877 yes. It was 2020 and they said people were complaining about the rough ride of the 250 so they took a spring out which was the dumbest thing I have ever heard. But it changed the towing for sure. I still want to add a helper spring and added air bags but other than that I have been very happy. Passing on the mountains hauling a 36 foot 5th wheel was awesome for sure. There is far more power than truck.
I would have preferred the 350 for the exact reasons you listed had one been available…
I think the GMC did great for fuel mileage. Lift with larger tires does play a roll in mpg. Did you guys weigh in your trucks and rv? I’m curious about how each one weighs. Also maintenance and tire pressure could make a difference in mpg, could you include those too?
Our truck is a GMC Sierra 2003,we took a an eight day trip arrived home safely but found the back shackles for the leaf springs broken on both sides. So needless to say we knew it was time to get a new truck. We ended up with a 2020 GMC SIERRA ELEVATION 5.3L V8 4X4 with big beefy tires and full towing package. It was a lease turned in with less than 30,000. Our RV is a Grand Design Imagine 22reb,dry weight of just over five thousand pounds and tongue weight little over 500.we never travel with water on board and last years cat weigh in we were a one thousand under with the trailer max weight and way under on the truck cargo weight. So this truck is perfect for our rig and no we never plan to go bigger. We love our RV and we love our new truck. It is indeed important to understand all the numbers! Great job you two!!!
I have a Ram 2500 gas engine. My reasoning was to offset cost when not towing. I'm not a full timer. One of the biggest savings is in routine maintenance. A diesel oil change is 15+ qts. Vs. 7 qts. Plus the diesel fuel filter/water separator can run up to $100. If I was doing what your doing I would definitely go diesel. I tow in the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia without a problem. The gas Ram does also have engine breaking. Love your videos.
Nothing beats a Dodge ram for exhaust breaks going down big hills with a big load. They all make nice trucks but haven full control going down the hills. Is icing on the cake.
So glad that the Ram is treating you great, David! They sure seem like nice trucks 👍🏼 Stay safe!
Hey Hanks, I just wanted to throw a positive gas truck comment in. We have a 2021 F350 Tremor model pickup with a 10 speed transmission and the 7.3 L gas engine. We pull a 12,000 Lb 2021 Keystone Arcadia 5th wheel. No issues at all with the truck. We average 10 MPG. Did you figure the cost of DEF in your numbers?
So glad y’all made it there safely! Looks like you had a wonderful trip! Can’t wait until your next adventure! Happy Camping and Safe Travels!! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Lynn!
Hey Hanks, I just wanted to throw a positive gas truck comment in. We have a 2021 F350 Tremor model pickup with a 10 speed transmission and the 7.3 L gas engine. We pull a 12,000 Lb 2021 Keystone Arcadia 5th wheel. No issues at all with the truck. We average 10 MPG.
I have done all those things and the heavy duty 3/4 ton does a great job. However, it doesn’t change the fact of the GVWR that’s on the specifications on the door from the factory.
I just watched this video sitting here in my 2023 F250 with the 7.3L Gas engine, and it has a mass amount of power for towing a camper. Max Tow Rating is 17,300. Also, Ford does have some sort of braking when going down steep grades (not the same as an engine brake but works great). I did my share of driving a real diesel engines in Kenworth, Freightliner, Peterbilt, and international trucks, and I never want to drive a diesel again unless it is for making money; especially now that you have to add DEF. I do enjoy your videos!
We have a 2023 ram 2500 gas and we are pulling a 38foot Arcadia tt.
We run a gmc 3500 dually that is diesel and we tow a 40 foot toyhauler. We went and cat scale and found even with the razor in the back we are still under weight, but we also only put water in it when we boondock as it has a 165 gallons fresh water and that would put us at capacity for weight. Now hubby is an OTR truck driver so is very cognizant of weight distribution. He also has 3 million miles under his belt so thankfully he knows a thing or two. We had a class a and we actually get better fuel mileage with the 1 ton dually and they were both diesel.
I had my 2019 Ram with the HO diesel "deleted" with less than 300 miles on it. So I'm not paying $3 a gallon for cow urine! And at approx 14:43, your pics showed the highest MPG as a little above 10. I consistently set my cruise 5 mph over the posted speed limit and average more than that (last trip to Utah from western GA and back my avg was 12.3 on the dash and 12.1 in the Milekeeper app) towing my 25k fifth wheel toyhauler! And the truck tows, that's it! I use the motorcycle for anything else.
14:29- Who's catching up to me? Haha!! We are still loving the Class A life but, if we ever get another RV a 5th wheel is high on the list. So, this has been great info to take in account in our potential future! Great episode as always. Thanks Hanks! -Danette and Speed
I feel like we’ve all been there…. we used to have a diesel SUV. All good, used to the green handle at gas stations… and then we stopped at a BP after having run a half marathon. Little tired…. BP uses green handles for gas, black for diesel. I pumped a full tank.😮
As a suggestion, get an extension cord for your 7 pin cable for your truck. Plug in and run the truck while using your auto-level system. It will help. 👊🏼
Ran over to Indianapolis for cleetus and cars last weekend about 550 miles round trip 21 f350 c.c.8 ft bed 7.3 gas 4.30 rear pulling 43 ft 3 axle toyhauler ran 70-75&80 mph there and pushing wind and storms average mpg was 8 mpg I'm happy with that
As a mechanic who has had to remedy the situation of a person filling their vehicle with gasoline instead of diesel, you are correct in saying do not turn the key on. it will make the job much more difficult because then the lines will have to be flushed, instead of just draining the fuel tank. and starting it will at least cost you injectors and a pump, and maybe even your engine
We had a 1997 F 350. great truck and we had it for 20 years for 350000 miles. So much camping. But it was loud and very smelly. We now have an F350 2019 diesel long box. Give me the DEF any day.
Glad you changed the title lmao! We have a (deleted and tuned) 2015 Ram 6.7 Cummins with a full Banks upgrade, 2 1/2 front lift, airbags in rear, 35 inch Toyo RT tires, cold air intake, Fass fuel system, EFI live, ETC, that pulls our 41 foot toy hauler fifth wheel, with Kawasaki side by side, Total trailer weight fully loaded is around 14-15000. and makes crazy good numbers (18+ MPG while towing) and miles between fuel stops, probably helps having 80 gallons on board (45 gallon aux tank). great video love y'alls content don't change.
I’ve had both gas and diesel. I’d never be able to go back to gas. I have a 2016 F350 dually, with the exhaust brake and true tow/haul mode, the diesel wins hands down. Love you guys, keep the videos coming. 👊🏼
We have a 2021 Ford F250 with the gas Godzilla engine. Pulled a 33’ travel trailer in the west with no issues. Went over the I70 mountain pass out of Denver with no problems. The truck does have engine braking.
I have a 2020 Silverado 3500 with 6.6L gas engine. Pulling a 42 ft Solitude 375RES. B&W Champion Hitch. 18” Michelin tires, which came on the unit. No other modifications. We have no problems towing, even going down steep grades. The pickup does have exhaust brakes. That is a life saver. We average about 8 miles/gal, which is almost identical to what we got towing a 34 foot Forest River Windjammer pull behind. We usually travel about 67mph on Highway. Just to let you know our experience with a gas engine.
As far as the gasoline in the diesel, truckers used to put a gallon of gas in their diesel big diesel tanks up in the colder climates to keep it from gelling up
I'm bulletproofing a 6.4 right now just so I can do exactly this. You two are me and my wifes heros. ❤❤❤❤ Gogogogo. Diesel is the only way to go with towing. Freedom of Life. We have a 31 footer and it's fully customized. Incinerator toilet and all custom bunks for the kids etc. The works. Thanks for all you guys do! We're getting to our dreams because of your perseverance! Don't stop. You're the next big TH-cam thing.
We have an F250 with the 7.3 gas engine. Live in Wyoming. It pulls our 5th wheel great over the Big Horns. 👍🏻
First of all, I really enjoy your videos. I am a retired truck driver. If it were me, I would have a business class freightliner or Peterbilt single axle with air ride and smallDetroit engine. get the best mileage as of right now I have a 2020 F150, ..5 L gas with a 10 speed transmission. I also have a 2020 Coleman lantern. It’s about 23,24 feet overall I pull 25 miles. And then park it for three months if I had a rig as big as yours, I would definitely go with diesel, but with my little weekender we do fine with gas happy trails y’all
He's not a very good patient haha!
Think about air tabs for the back of your trailer...They look funky but help with the aerodynamics of wind drag
Oh I missed you guys at Roswell. Went there right before the New Year, but I remember that museum.
We towed with a half-ton gas truck but we were at the upper limit for payload. It really helped when I put LT truck tires on it. We now have a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD with the 6.6L Duramax and the 10-speed. Definitely NOT going back to a gas truck for towing! This this is a beast in the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. Plus it is very easy and pleasant to drive. As delivered paylod was 3400 lbs but with us, Mr. Onions the Wonder Cat, running boards, and a hard tonneau cover, it's below 3000 lbs now. Still not unhappy.
Oh and diesel around here is near or below regular gas prices. Finally!
Safe travels, y'all!
Bob and Dottie!
Picked out our camper first then bought a vehicle sizable to pull it. We bought our first camper, a 2022 Jayco Jay Feather (approximately 4500 lbs) and intended to tow it with a 2001 Toyota Tundra 1500. The camper was too much for the Toyota, even on the way home from the dealership so you know we had no extra weight added to it yet. We parked the camper under the lien-to at the barn and started online shopping for a larger truck. We ended up getting a 2012 Chevy Suburban LS 2500 (ex fleet vehicle) and it is perfect to pull our Jayco.
I love how Kyle, aka , Karl says D.E.F. lol all us truck drivers just say Def. I'm a new watcher of you're videos and they are very entertaining, keep up the good work.
Pretty good comparison. Would have been interesting to compare the weights as well. Dont feel bad about the gas, at least you were smart enough you caught it quickly and didnt start it. Keep having fun!
The debate about gas or diesel is subjective at best! Just like you, I say rock what you’ve got! Both have their overall strengths and weaknesses. Having driven both types of trucks, I definitely appreciate a truck that has an abundance of torque and total towing capacity. My 2015 Ram 3500 DRW with the 6.7L HO Diesel engine has a total 25K towing capacity and 1K ft/lbs of engine torque! It easily handles our 38 ft 5th wheel that has a 15K unladen weight. Additionally, I have the Timbren adjustable suspension bump stops on both trailer and truck. Makes a significant ride performance of both truck and trailer! You can also say that the suspension addition is an additional safety factor which is a key factor in towing your rig. Also towing I get excellent fuel mpg’s at 10.5 at 55mph, and 10.2 at 62-65 mph. With a 68 gallon fuel tank gives a range of 680 + miles per tank. Gotta love that! Keep em rolling guys👍🏻
Delete something on that truck!!!! I did on my 14 dually ram. I added 75hp and around the same in the torque plus had the 4 inch straight pipe without the muffler, I recommend muffler. It was pretty obnoxious loud! But getting up to 18mpg with my 43 foor/16,000 pounder behind it was nice with it's original 32 gallon tank.
We really enjoy your channel keep up the fun videos, makes us want to get out on the road.
Wanted to let you know you missed a few stats on this video.
1. Fords and Dodge’s are way better looking trucks than GMC's!
2. Your GMC has an Isuzu motor, boo. Makes your chevy not a chevy
3. Your GMC has an Allison designed transmission Makes your chevy not a chevy
(PS Allisons are great tranis)
4. Your GMC cost way to much for a foreign rig.
5. You need to get a DOG😊
Other than those 5 things you guys are perfect!
Scott
I agree with you Scott!
I’ve done a DEF delete along with a tune and added cold air intake on my 2011 Ford F350 and picked up an extra 4.5 miles per gallon. I running a flatbed on my dually and I’m towing a 2015 Heartland Big Horn 3610 RL weighting in at 13,000 lbs. Our normal towing speed is 65 to 68 mph. All this and even eliminate my cost for def.
Great job guys breaking down all the stats. Safe travel!!
Obviously up to you, but modifying emissions control systems is illegal and there are cases (not very many) where people have been forced to reinstall or scrap their truck.
Here's hoping that you don't ever need any engine work. If a Ford shop finds you've done the delete (and the analyzer WILL tell them), your truck will be blacklisted. Any shop that works on your truck, knowing that the emissions system has been modified, is subject to a BIG fine.
Would you consider removing the catalytic converter from your gas vehicle, which really is the same as doing a DEF delete. It's all about air quality and polution. Yes DEF is a pain in the ass but so is lung cancer.
I've got a 2019 Ram 1500 with a 5.7l gas engine and 3.21 rear diff. I tow a 6,800lb travel trailer with no issues. I do have Airlift airbags in the rear to help with sag and LT load range E tires and weight distribution hitch with sway control. I get about 8 mpg on the hilly runs and 10 mpg on the flatter terrain. I do have to say though I feel it when we catch a good crosswind. We are weekend worriers so the truck is a daily driver
Air bags keep the truck/camper looking level but really helps more for braking and stirring.
Distributing weight leveraging the weight evenly on the front and back tires as much as possible so your stir wheel doesn’t feel like it’s floating and your front tires have more surface area on the pavement for stopping/braking, giving you more control.
Most of the time it’s only about a two inch lift to level.
2017 Nissan Titan XD Diesel and 2021 Grand Design Reflection 337. About 10 tons of weight rolling down the Hwy.
Diesels Rock 🤘😎
One gallon of gas in your diesel tank would not have hurt it, you could have just filled the rest up with diesel. It used to be a common practice in the winter to add a bit of gas into diesel to keep the fuel from gelling up.
I was thinking the same thing when they were talking about it. 1 gallon diluted in 25 or 30 gallons of diesel would not be noticeable.
They got ripped off mechanic shop knows this
Yep. I've done it too and a gallon will mix into a full tank of diesel with probably no damage. PROBABLY
6:15 Facts, I own a 2019 F-150 FX4 10 speed 3.5 gas ecoboost with engine breaks.
Engine brakes? He's referring to the exhaust brake. I also have the 3.5 ecoboost and it's not the engine braking, the trans is just downshifting and holds RPMs instead of re-up shifting while you add gas on/off until you're level again and it up shifts back to your prior gear.
I think it would have been great if you had a friend join you who had a modern gas tow rig for comparison. I have always said each engine option has its place and use. Personally we have an '22 F350 with the 7.3L and 4.30 axle to pull our Reflection 311BHS and it is a good setup in my opinion. We are "weekend warriors" so for us and our use a diesel did not make sense. If we were full timers like HappilyEverHanks, then a diesel truck would be a much more compelling option.
I purchased a new gas 2500 HD Chevy in 2014. In 2015 we decided to purchase a new 5th wheel instead of a tow behind. Towed the 33" Sanibel a few years including 2 1700 mile trips down south. Decided to buy a new truck in 2019 and went diesel ( all crew cabs ). Only had it 5 days and we hooked up on a 1700 mile trip. Even my wife made comments on how much better it pulled the camper. I will never go back to gas unless we give up camping ( and doubt that will happen ! ). Bought another new Chevy 2500 High Country diesel late last year, and each one has been better on towing and handling than the previous. Diesel rules!!!
I’m with Carl mostly on tires. Heat and age/cracks within tires really expand and create weakness and blow outs. I drove cross country. And when on North South runs which ever state Heated up first there were more tire tread/recaps all over the road. 20:56 commonly know as GATOR.
Tire pressure in cold state heated up further south we drove - heat/speed/pressure
Thanks for your videos and the great fun you obviously have in making them! Plus, you're sharing some great info! We have a 2013 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 6.6 Duramax Crew Cab with the standard box. As we are 5th wheel shopping and learning, I am trying to be careful about pin weight and the payload capacity of the truck, especially since we are toy hauler shopping! Our yellow specs sticker reads 2553 lbs of payload capacity. So, that really makes getting a lighter 5th wheel a challenge. Can you share more about your situation and experience concerning your pin weight with your truck and it's effect on your long hauls? Blessings & thanks!!!
Thank you very much for taking the time to say this! This is a great topic and we appreciate you sharing this with us Hopefully in the near future, we can make a great detailed video about this. We appreciate all your support for watching our videos 😃 - Kyle and Renee
Slow and steady is what we do. One more mpg and safer. This is great advice you are giving. Thanks
We have been pulling a travel trailer for 25 plus years with a gas ⛽️ truck but in 2015 we moved to a GMC Sierra Denali which is diesel. Well in 2016 my husband poured gas in the tank and ran the engine. Needless to say $15,000 dollars later they had to clean everything out. Sad day and he will never make that mistake again. I feel for you Kyle, but we learn from out mistakes and move on. You are not alone. Keep marching forward. One for the 📚and a story to tell to the grandchildren.
I pumped about 2 gallons of gasoline into a auxiliary fuel tank on a 2008 GMC 6.6 duramax . I topped it off with diesel, drove 700 hundred miles home, by continuing to alternate between the factory tank and the auxiliary tank. No problems. But after I had been home about a month, the diesel exhaust particulate system failed, and had to be replaced. Luckily the epa warranty covered the cost !
thanks for all the information
We have a Diesel Revel Sprinter van. We always fill DEF at the truckstop pump with the discount card. Way easier than hauling around a container of DEF in the back. We have friends who don't trust the DEF at the pump. I'm like, "where are all the broken down semis down the interstate if the truckstop DEF is bad?"
The air bags and upgraded shocks made a huge difference for us as far as the way it goes down the road.
Love the Let Er Rip t-shirt! Had to go to your merch store and order a couple. You 2 rock. Love your videos.!
My 2009 F350 with the V10 has the engine brake. Handled the mountains grades just fine.
My 2019 F150 also has an engine brake when in tow mode.
Thought it interesting you stopped in St David AZ. Watching your adventures. Keep it up!
Running 2017 Ram 3500mega cab dually towing 2019 solitude 41ft. Added airbags for ride only. By adding about 40lbs of air to the system the truck rides level and actually cushions the ride on rough roads. The only upgrade done, but according to the wife money well spent . I highly recommend air bags to anyone towing a fifth wheel
For smaller hauls (6-9K) we rock the twin turbo V6 Ford 360hp
20 mpg when you’re not towing and an average 8-10 mpg. Saving money on the majority of miles logged equals more $ saved in the long term
You did one time,my husband did it twice put a 1/2 first time full it up second time. He did not start the truck but it was expensive. So don't feel bad. Love your videos.
I really love all the new trucks... BUT, Always a BUT, I will keep driving my 2001 7.3 diesel flat bed 4x4 4dr. with over 303 thousand miles on it and only thing I've done is new up pipes. for the cost of a new truck I could replace my engine 6 times. I pull a 2001 Coachman 38 ft 12,500 lb trailer get 10 mpg. Its all how you take care of your trailer and tow vehicle. Great Video keep it up. Cheers
I have a 06 F350 6.0L Diesel Love it.
Bought the Timbren rear suspension for my GMC 3500HD. Thanks for sharing the link!
I drive big rigs for a living and many old school drivers will use a gallon of gas or 2 in there tanks to keep them from freezing during winter! Putting a gallon in of gas in your diesel may make it smoke more then normal but odds are it wouldn’t hurt it. More then that maybe or probably.also I know many people that have used the wrong because of the pump handler color
KO2s are awesome. My favorite tire. But I have heard so many horror stories on lifted trucks and got they ride and tow. Glad that you have had a great experience
I was listening to a local radio station yesterday and one of the hosts was talking about putting “gasoline” in his “diesel” truck. He filled up his truck (27 gallons) and started to drive it. He quickly realized what he had done and stopped as soon as he could pull off the highway. Long story short, it cost him $4,000 to drain, clean the system and pumps plus towing.
Like you, we've towed with both. Our Ram 6.7 Cummins tows our 35ft 5er like butter. Numbers are similar to what you all got. Our trips vary from 60 miles to the beach to 1500 to see the kids in Cali. I don't think we could have done it with gas. We do tend to go a little faster across W. Texas, tho. Great series about your caravan.
I wish they would have included a Cummins 6.7 on this experiment...it would only seem fair to have the big three.
Took a trip from California to Texas and back in are 2018 2500 Ram 4x4 diesel pulling a 35 ft fifth wheel. We averaged 11.1 going across the i40 to Texas driving 70 mph. On the way back driving 60 mph and got 12.2 going back on the i10 to California. The truck seems to get the best fuel mileage at 61 miles an hour.
@@socapaul We go from the Houston area across I10. It's 80 from west of Kerrville to El Paso. We don't go 80 but it's a looooong way so we go 70 (+?) for that stretch and it's tiring. We can only make it to Ft. Stockton the first day. Then Tucson, then SoCal. Great news tho. The kids are moving back to the Central Time Zone!
We have a 2020 Chevy 3500 SRW with the 6.6 gas that we tow our Reflection 341RDS with.
We chose to go with the gas engine for the fact that we don't tow often enough to justify the extra cost of a diesel.
In the summer we tow our camper to our seasonal spot in MN & leave it there for the camping season.
We have done a few shorter trips with our setup & have done one big trip this past November. That trip was about a 3600 mile round trip from MN to Camp Margaritaville in Auburndale, FL.
Our truck did great for that trip, although if & when we get the chance to travel more as full time RVer's.... We will probably make the transition to a diesel truck.
At that point I believe the benefits of a diesel truck will far outweigh the extra cost.
Another great video guys. Thank you for taking the time to produce your content.
we have 2021 45' road warrior toy huller 4275rw and we pull it with 2016 Kenworth t680 single 'ed rear axle 9.4 mpg and 200 gallon fuel capacity I compare it to a 3/4 ton pulling a john boat and the no more butt pucker on steep down hill grades or emergency braking no more getting blown around by big rigs passing and cost less to buy than new 3/4 or 1 ton trucks not wore out at the end of a long drive air ride suspension cab and seats and can see farther down the road the only draw back is we cant go thru a drive thru go with hdt and never look back
Great video guys and thanks for the info! I've had both gas and diesel trucks pulling my RVs. In my opinion, hands down, diesel truck is the way to go if you plan on doing a lot of towing. Diesel trucks handle hills much better and the truck doesn't seem to have to shift up and down so much. I just last year replaced my 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty (6.3L International motor) that had 310,000 miles with a 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 6.7 Power Stroke. Really mixed emotions letting go of the other truck, because it was still tight, everything worked and it ran like a champ. I think my wife had second thoughts about selling more than me. The new truck has a 6" lift with 37" tires. I did add air bags to level out everything (toy hauler bumper pull) and put a 51 gallon fuel transfer tank in the bed behind the cab, plus also added a tonneau cover. So far we've made several trips with it. The first was your rally in Auburndale and the Smokey Mountains National Park with no issues and it did great on the hills. I was a little apprehensive about the lift and big tires, but was glad to see that your truck did well. Just my take. All the best to you, keep the videos coming, we enjoy them very much!
I know you were saying gas trucks don’t have exhaust brake but some do have transmission braking. Our Escalade has it abs works on down hills.