[ManualTrans]

I have to pick up a small Cletrac Dozer that weighs 9,000 lbs. the 14k rated tiltbed equipment trailer weighs 3,000 lbs.

My truck is an 02 Auto, 4x4, quad cab long bed, 3.54 gears, all stock.

Am I crazy to drive from the Bay Area Ca with an empty trailer to Clovis, New Mexico? About 1,300 miles one way. I figure I might be able able to get 350-400 miles per tank, filling up 9 times round trip.

Can these trucks handle it? I realize I'm probably on the too heavy side of what the truck is rated for.

Still cheaper than hiring the job out on Uship if I do it myself.

 

[bigfish95971]

If all is in good shape all should be fine. Take it easy. Use OD off loaded or any up hill empty with trailer. Take your time. Change all fluids first and carry extra. You should get about 12-15mpg on flat towing.
Tire size? Factory sizes are best.

 

[Blue Diamond Construction]

phuck no brother tow that sh!t! these trucks were made for hauling weight. its about the max id tow that distance. i occasionally tow a dump trailer with 10-15k of dirt/concrete/stuff and have had another 5k in the bed once or twice. keep a steady pace and enough room in front of you going down hills. you will be fine.

 

[Syco67]

You might do better than that with the empty trailer at least. I hauled a 3500lb camper and was able to go 500+ miles before filling up. That was when my truck was mostly stock, just had the exhaust and a BHAF at the time. That was mostly flat highway though, just a couple long hills thrown in.

 

[KATOOM]

I advise against it... 12,000 is a lot of weight for the stock auto and you dont have an exhaust brake crossing over some of those CA hills.