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2013 3500 Mega DRW diesel fifth wheel?

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Old Sep 28, 2020 | 09:33 PM
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Default 2013 3500 Mega DRW diesel fifth wheel?

Anyone towing with a 3500 Megacab? I'm looking at 2013 DRW 4x4 with around 100k. I'd like to haul my family across the country with a 17000lbs toy hauler. Is this truck up to task? Can I make modifications to enhance it? I love the idea of having the space in the back for the kids. I'm typically a Ford guy so Dodge is all new to me but is starting to appear more reliable.

I'd appreciate any feedback guys. Thank you.
 
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Old Sep 29, 2020 | 08:52 AM
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Gas or diesel? Manual or auto? A quick look shows they can tow up to 30,000 pounds....... And do it comfortably. (I assume that's for the diesel engine though, gas might be rated somewhat lower.)
 
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Old Sep 29, 2020 | 12:04 PM
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Originally Posted by HeyYou
Gas or diesel? Manual or auto? A quick look shows they can tow up to 30,000 pounds....... And do it comfortably. (I assume that's for the diesel engine though, gas might be rated somewhat lower.)
Sorry it is Diesel and it is an auto.
 
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Old Sep 29, 2020 | 12:05 PM
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Then 17000 pounds will probably not even phase it. Only time you will notice it is there, is when you are trying to stop. With trailer brakes, you may not even notice then.
 
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Old Sep 29, 2020 | 12:41 PM
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Originally Posted by HeyYou
Then 17000 pounds will probably not even phase it. Only time you will notice it is there, is when you are trying to stop. With trailer brakes, you may not even notice then.
Good to know. Now just to make sure there were no extremely expensive items I would need
 
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Old Sep 29, 2020 | 12:48 PM
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Originally Posted by Travelnfam
Good to know. Now just to make sure there were no extremely expensive items I would need
It's already under the hood.

Make sure it has a trailer brake controller.... I think it was actually offered as a factory option....
 
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Old Oct 25, 2020 | 12:19 PM
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I own a dodge 2010 3500 laramie SRW diesel and tow with a fifth wheel 12000 RV trailer. I've also towed 20k trailers around the mountains up here as well. Depending on you, you might want to get a larger tank or a slip tank for more cruising range. I average 250 - 300 miles a tank while towing. My 2010 typical is hooked up to a trailer and is more a work truck these days.

The exhaust brake is awesome, you don't even need push the brakes to stop. My truck automatically shifts down (in tow haul mode) and keep the exhaust brake working. Probably the best truck e-brake in the business.

I would find a truck with the 4.10 gears, but other than that you should be good to go. How heavy is the trailer pin weight? If you going to heavy side, you might want air bags.

Just remember to pack lotsa beer and steaks.
 
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