Hello, newb to Ram Trucks

[FlynG]

I’m researching trucks. I don’t know what I want just yet. So I’ll throw this out there. I’m a longtime RV user, we had one of the first F-250HD power stroke CC short beds in our town. Towed gooseneck horse trailers, 5th wheel, etc. A long time ago.

We are considering selling our current Class C for a Cougar 24RDS 5th wheel. 1400 pin, 7500 dry, a claimed 2500ish useful load. I believe it’s 10K GVWR.
Also selling my daily for the truck. I’m about 4 years from retirement. I put about 15k on my vehicle a year. Probably another 3-5K on the RV.
I am leaning towards the Cummins. I wanted the 2500 CC SB 4x4 but figuring the pin weight will climb some we would be close on payload. So how is it to daily a 2500 or a 3500 empty 70 miles round trip mixed backroads and interstate? What’s a real world empty MPG? Towing a smaller Fiver?

If you have read this far, thanks!
What are the must have options for primarily 5th wheel towing?

thanks!
Flyn G

 

[flan]

Welcome aboard G. I’m a bumper pull camper guy so I can’t help with the 5er questions, but someone will be along shortly who can!

 

[AH64ID]

I have an auto-level 3500 and find that it rides better than most 2500’s as well as handles weight fantastic. I will often daily drive it and it’s a very comfortable commuter. Your drive sounds like it will be ok on the emissions system.

For 5th wheel towing I would look at a 3500 HO, auto-level suspension, long bed for 50 gallon fuel tank, cargo camera, and 5th wheel prep as a base build.

There are other options that are nice such as the digital rear view mirror, trailer TPMS, and dual alternators. It comes down to what you’re planning to do with the 5th wheel.

 

[buzzuti]

Welcome!

@AH64ID statements are solid and on point, imo.

From experience, I would go bigger than what you think you need (2500 v 3500).
You are most likely going to grow and change, much like you are now, and going bigger will give you the most flexibility.

I really appreciated the OEM Air-Suspension on my 3500, proved its value numerous times.