RE: Trucks & Hauling

["Corbelletta, Antonio" <Antonio_Corbelletta@affymetrix.com>]

We have been hauling horses for years to various endurance rides, NATRC, and
shows.  I will give you my opinion from my experience.  
From what you say you will need a full size truck.  I will also say that you
will need a 3/4 ton type/package on it.  Also, the minimum gas engine size
should be a 350 cubic inch V-8.  
I don't know anything about the Toyota (I never looked at the import trucks
because they were too small, maybe that has changed) but the 3 American
makers all have a LARGE selection of engines and transmissions to choose
from.  This can make it complex but that is the way to go with either Ford,
Dodge or Chevy.  I drive a Chevy 3/4 Extended cab, automatic, turbo diesel.
Very nice.  BTW I prefer diesels because they are made for hauling and get
better gas milage.  Then again if you are worried about the gas milage you
are in the wrong sport. LOL
Now beyond engines you want to make sure that the truck has an OIL COOLER,
and a TRANSMISSION COOLER.  These are NOT optional unless you want to
replace engines and transmissions regularly.  Now the nice thing is, the
American trucks come with a tow package that includes these things.  It
costs extra.  Very worth it.
The other thing is the brakes!!  You will be carrying lots of wt. That is
why I say to get a 3/4 ton at least.  The brakes are much bigger than the
1/2 ton.  This a safety reason, more breaking power.  You will also need
electric brake controller for the trailer.
In my opinion and experiance get the biggest most heavy duty truck that you
can afford.  You will same much headaches down the road.  Hauling horses
puts much more stress on the vehicle than hauling boats and other stuff.
Horses move around back there.  
As far as duelly are concerned you only need them if you plan on getting a
large gooseneck trailer.  
Hope this helps.  Anymore questions please ask, happy to help.
Tony Corbelletta


-----Original Message-----
From: guest@endurance.net [mailto:guest@endurance.net]
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2001 1:06 PM
To: ridecamp@endurance.net
Subject: RC: Trucks & Hauling


Annette Shumway wildpony@san.rr.com
Help! 

I have finally decided I must buy a new truck.  Can you experienced haulers
give me some advice?

I want to buy the smallest truck I can get away with, (for mileage) but
still feel secure when I haul. I haul about once a month.  I'd like -
Automatic, Extended cab, Gas only, no dually's, no 4x4.  I will be hauling
flat, hills & mountains (S. Calif.).  

Currently I have an old bumper pull 2 horse. It weighs about 1750#, but
loaded I guesstimate about 4000#.

The trailer I would like to own, but will not be able to afford for several
years, when loaded will weigh around 6000#. This is a bumper pull, 2 horse
slant with small dressing room.  

The salemen at Ford, Dodge & Toyota all say any of their V8's with a tow
package can handle this.  I'm pretty sure they are correct with my current
trailer, but I'm not so sure they can haul my trailer of the future.  (I
have no interest in upgrading my truck in a few years).

If a truck is rated to haul 7000#, can it really?  safely?  up a hill? 

Thanks for any advice you can give.

Annette




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