Is a Diesel Engine Truck Required for Fifth Wheel Towing in the Mountains
Question:
We are looking at buying a fifth wheel travel trailer about 36-38 feet around 14,000 GVW. We have been told that if we intend to drive in the mountains that we MUST have a diesel. We currently have a 2002 GMC 2500 HD with the Allison transmission and 8.1 gas engine. We are looking to trade but do we really need a diesel?
asked by: Carol
Expert Reply:
The 8.1 liter gas engine in your 2002 GMC 2500HD is a beast and will have plenty of horsepower and torque to do what you are trying to do. The only advantage to a diesel is that they tend to get slightly better fuel mileage for the amount of power they make. Which this is usually offset by the fact that diesel costs more per gallon.
If you are planning on a newer GM truck than a 2007 as a replacement for your truck your only real option would be to go a diesel route since the 8.1 was discontinued after 2007.
