Searching for a Full-Size

[expoguy]

All,


I'm new here and looking for some advise on a purchase. I am looking for i believe a full-size truck. I need to tow at around 7500 pounds or I would look at a mid-size. I'm looking for something I can do some mild to moderate off-roading and camping in. I want something that has very good reliability as well. I was looking heavily at the Nissan Titan Pro-4x but can't get past the center console in the truck. Started thinking about the Chevy 1500 z71. But am not sold on anything as of yet.

I'm looking for something under 28k with fewer then 50k miles. Any help or pictures of builds would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

expo guy

 

[justcuz]

Check the pickup build threads for variety. 7500 pounds is now in 1/2 ton territory, but I would prefer a 3/4 ton.
The larger axle, suspension and chassis components equal less long term wear and tear.
GM just upgraded their rear axles in V8 1/2 ton trucks to the 9.5 14 bolt semi-float. Before it was an order package like the Vortec Max.
All 1/2 ton trucks are now IFS so 4x4's are pretty much on a level playing field.
Hopefully others will offer opinions, based on personal experiences.

 

[expoguy]

Just looked at the Chevy on a lot, wasn't a fan. But I did sit in a Titan as well and liked it more then I thought I would. I also liked a Ram 1500 trx4/outdoorsman I sat in.

I think I am pretty set in stone on a 1/2 ton, don't really even want a truck that big. Pulling 7500 won't be the norm but the exception the norm would be about 5k or so.

Thanks,

expoguy

 

[AFBronco235]

Are you only focusing on newer trucks or are you on the lookout for an older rig as well? I'll admit, the newer trucks do tend to have more modern conveniences, like heated seats with lumbar support, but the older rigs do tend to be cheaper and a lot easier to customize to your needs. Plus, you won't feel so bad beating it up on the trails.

For instance a pre 97' F150 that can do all you want can be had for under $10K, except for the mileage. Throw in a 5 speed with a rebuilt engine, another $5K, and customize to your comfort level, lights, seats, rear axles or what have you for the rest of your build, and you'll be in heaven. If you want a smooth ride, the TTB suspension used by the F150 4X4 at the time is still comparable to the modern IFS systems used today, only a lot tougher IMO. Replacement parts and upgrade parts are cheap. Just a quick run to any PAP will net you 90% of your repair parts. The other 10% are still carried by your local auto parts store and are still relatively cheap. A water pump for the 4.9L I6 engine, for instance runs for less than $20. Easy to fix, easy to use. There also the added benefit that if you decide to upgrade the rear axle for better towing, just go to your local PAP yard and pull the axle from an F250/350, along with the leaf springs and you'll have your upgrade. I'm fairly certain the new axle and springs will bolt right in, with a minimum of fuss.

Have you considered full size SUVs as well? They tend to be nicer for camping since you can fold the seats up and stretch out in the back.

 

[expoguy]

Mostly focusing on newer trucks for the convince, don't really want a project project. Just something with a level or small lift, meaty tires and a couple other odds and ends.

 

[calicamper]

Titan is an odd duck and for sure aged out if your looking new or used I'd suggest sticking with the not so odd ducks so you have a better source of owner info on maint and modifications etc. I recall the Titan was a bit short on the braking power also. I'd just go F150 -F250 route given they make so many of them you have a good chance of finding a very clean low mileage example pretty easily with a little digging. If your looking at new rigs for sure wait till the all new Titan is released given it will be substantially better than the old dated and odd duck Titan of the past.