I plan on towing a trailer with a maximum of 12000 lbs. I am looking at maybe getting a GMC or Chevrolet 2500 truck or a Tundra with the 5.7 V8. I think the GMC and Chevy are rated to tow more than the Tundra but I am worried about the reliability of the 2500. I had a 1500 Chevy back in the day and it was trying to bankrupt me by constantly breaking down.
Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you!
GM 2500 100%, there will be less wear and tear and you will be able to go longer for maintenance intervals. The Tundra is not designed to tow heavy constantly. The Japanese made a perfect truck for the off roader/ toes a boat or camper once in awhile in the summer. The 3/4 GM was purpose built to tow heavy constantly and to be able to handle it.
Even looking past the grogginess of the 5.7, that Tundra's transmission is never going to survive towing that much frequently.
GM's 2500's are fine, as long as it's not an emissions diesel.
Also consider, if you're looking for no-frills reliability for hard work, depending on your budget I would consider a 2011-2017 6.2 Ford. If that's too new or expensive, it wouldn't be a bad idea to opt for a 06-10 6.8 Ford.
the 5.7L engine is now 20 years old. It's going to be hard finding a low mileage one, and especially one mounted to a truck that's in good order. You might consider a newer one with a 6.0L engine.
Tow 6 tons? IMHO, you should be shopping for a 1 ton or a 3500 GMC or Chevrolet with 7.4 or 8.1 liter or current equivalent engine without cylinder deactivation.
