Full size (non-Tacoma) related towing question

I'm considering buying a 2013 Dodge 2500 Cummins from a family member as a secondary vehicle and tow rig. I've never owned a full size so I'm looking for thoughts / opinions regarding the realistic towing capability of a 3/4 ton diesel.

In my mind Id like to get a dual axle trailer in the 30+ foot range. That would let me load up my Taco, a tractor or other piece of equipment (thinking in the future here), or even two smaller vehicles. Likely in the 12-14k lbs range in terms of trailer + payload weight depending on how everything shakes out. This is all theoretical at this point.

Skimming some articles online and official Dodge ratings, it looks like all that (and more) can be done without any issue. GCWR of 25,000 and a max trailer weight of 17,270 for the year / model truck in question.

To the guys that have full size trucks and tow with them, what are your opinions in terms of a realistic number?

 

Had a coworker go through this. Crawl the forums, as Dodge offers a couple of different transmission/differential options in the heavy duty class. There's one that's rated for big trailers, and another that can't really pull more than your average camper.

Check your build configuration and get the heaviest drivetrain combo you can.

 

The larger trucks (and trailers) bring up the same questions that the smaller trucks do.

Payload is often the limiting factor. A heavy diesel engine can cut into available payload of 3/4 ton pickup. Check your door sticker for payload.

Gooseneck trailers will put more weight on the ball than bumper pull, so bumper pull is often easier to remain within payload of a 3/4 ton pickup.

If you find that you're close to being over payload, you can often move load back on trailer or spin it around so engine is towards rear, etc to lessen weight on the pin. If in doubt, drive loaded truck and trailer over CAT scale.

 

Glad you brought that up actually. Didn't want to make my first post too long winded, but I see goosenecks as 'purpose-built' for larger loads which makes them 'better' in my novice mindset. That said all my preliminary numbers have been based on bumper pull. Simply because Id like to keep the bed free for other stuff I see myself wanting to do if I had a full size.

To @Rock Lobster s point the configuration Id be buying is ~2400-2500 max payload iirc. So definitely something Ill keep in mind

 

@ColoradoTJ you tow a bunch of heavy things with full size trucks don't you?

 

Awesome thanks for all the info man. Ill take a read through that thread you linked.

Ill have to check out Midsota. Certainly don't mind a bit of a drive for the right trailer that will be as versatile as possible for me in the future. Upgraded axles seem like a no brainer to me. I had done some research into Appalachian Trailers, Kaufman Trailers, and Texas Pride - just what turned up on google. Seems like 8k are either standard equipment or optional upgrades on most.

And just to clarify, Im not necessarily setting out looking for a dedicated tow rig. Family member of mine happened to mention he's looking for a new truck. Got me thinking about buying his 2500 because I know the full history on it. That in turn got me thinking about towing, and what reasonable numbers are

 

Ain't that the truth. Trucks were rated very conservatively years ago compared to today.

If I remember right, my old Ford F350 DRW had a published "tow rating" of 13K. That's half ton truck territory these days.