Pickup Truck Reviews and Comparisons

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Pickup Truck Reviews and Comparisons

Truck/SUV Review & Resource Center

Mr. Truck knows how much time it takes to research the web. Since I’m already doing it, I thought I would share my best pickup truck reviews. This should help answer questions, save time and prevent some of that good ole multiple computer monitor radiation. Pickup truck reviews towing trailers, see how trucks compare using trailers.

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Custom Bronco^® and Bronco Sport project vehicles bound for the 2021 SEMA Show demonstrate endless possibilities for enhancing and personalizing, with an extensive lineup of lift kits, wheels, racks and more from Genuine Ford Parts, Ford Licensed Accessories^* and Ford Performance Parts^** Six custom builds – including four Broncos and two Bronco Sports:  See the news story

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EPA-estimated 42 MPG City! All-New Ford Maverick Hybrid Is Now America’s Most Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Pickup The all-new 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid – the first standard hybrid pickup in America – officially has an EPA-estimated rating of 42 miles per gallon in the city. The first Maverick Hybrid pickups are expected to start shipping in December with customer deliveries expected to start in January, arriving with an EPA-estimated rating of 37 mpg combined and an EPA-estimated driving range of more than 500 miles. Ford Maverick 42 MPG

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Stellantis Introduces New Mopar ’21 Ram 1500 Special Edition in North America. 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn/Lone Star Crew Cab, powered by the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, features select Mopar Custom Shop accessories and graphics for exclusive performance appearance  Read the report…

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Ford’s ‘Mother of All Road Trips’ Tests BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving Ahead of Over-the-Air Push to F-150: Yep, they’re coming. Self driving trucks maybe someday with trailers. I asked that at a Ford media conference today. Didn’t get an answer just “stay tuned for future announcements.” That would be cool. Have a truck drive itself, change lanes, climb hills, swerve around an elk with a trailer attached. I’d pay to see that. Electric truck, self driving trucks, why not just a transporter from Star Trek to just “beam me up Scotty.” Read the story…

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Bronco Brand Teams Up with Respected 4×4 Companies to Expand Aftermarket Parts and Accessory Options for Customers: Bronco^® announces collaborations with three of the leading off-road aftermarket companies, further expanding the list of Ford-approved off-road parts and accessories available for the summer launch of Bronco two- and four-door SUVs. See the details….

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Ford Introduces All-New 2021 F-150 Police Responder with Improved Top Speed, Added Capability• All-new F-150 Police Responder now offers enhanced top speed of 120 mph and available Police Engine Idle, which lets an officer remove the key and securely exit the running truck without losing power to lights and sirens. Read More…

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Kelsey says: “This Ram TRX was one of the fastest and most powerful trucks I have ever been in. Sitting in it was pure luxury (as I would expect for 100k+). Having a 702 horsepower, 650lb-ft torque supercharged engine straight from the factory is AWESOME!”

Check it out….

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Ford Unleashes Most Off-Road Capable and Connected F-150 Raptor Ever

Tackle tougher terrain: Fully redesigned F-150 Raptor boosts its off-road capability with all-new five-link rear suspension featuring improved wheel travel, electronically controlled next-generation FOX™ shocks with Live Valve™ technology, plus first-in-class*available 37-inch tires to tackle tougher terrain on high-speed desert runs. 2021 Raptor story…

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Ford Reveals Bronco ULTRA4 4400 Unlimited Class Extreme Race Trucks to Tackle King of the Hammers Off-Road Race. Built to conquer boulder fields and dry lakes, Bronco^® – the outdoor brand of Built Wild^™ 4×4 SUVs from Ford – expands its off-road presence by debuting three custom-built Bronco ULTRA4 4400 unlimited class race trucks that will compete in this year’s grueling King of the Hammers off-road racing event, which runs Feb. 2-6 in Johnson Valley, Calif. More….

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First Ram TRX Super Truck is going to Barrett-Jackson  auction in March. The Ram 1500 TRX VIN #001 being auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale is one of 702 Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition models. Commemorating the most powerful truck with 702 horsepower straight from the factory, the 2021 1500 TRX Launch Edition is limited to 702 units – and sold out in less than three hours. For more ….

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Ford all-new 2021 Ford F-150 – a fuel economy leader among gas-powered full-size light-duty trucks.  The 3.5-liter PowerBoost™ V6 – the only full hybrid available in a pickup with the best combined fuel economy rating for gas-powered full-size light-duty pickups with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg on 4×2 models. The 4×2 PowerBoost, with EPA-estimated ratings of 25 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, has an EPA-estimated range of 750 miles on a single tank of gas.  Full Story….

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2021 Ford F150 Tremor is coming to town:  All-new F-150 Tremor® combines outstanding towing and payload capacity* with greater off-road prowess – featuring upgraded suspension and driveline hardware, increased suspension travel, approach, breakover, and departure angles**, plus standard rear locking differential and available front Torsen limited-slip differential. Read the details….

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The Sleeping Giant just opened it’s eyes and POW, ZOOM, BAM, Look up in the sky it’s Hummer EV Super Truck. The HUMMER EV will get its energy from General Motors’ all-new Ultium batteries and power from Ultium Drive, GM’s proprietary EV drive units. A GM-estimated best-in-class 1,000 horsepower and GM-estimated 11,500 lb-ft of torque are generated by three separate motors within two Ultium drive units to give HUMMER EV’s e4WD remarkable on- and off-road capabilities.  Read the beginnings if a Super Star.

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Tortured and Tested, 3.5-Liter PowerBoost Full Hybrid Powertrain in the All-New 2021 F-150. The full hybrid powertrain is the most powerful engine in the all-new F-150 lineup, delivering 430 horsepower and 570 lb.-ft. of torque.  Tests included towing fully loaded trailers over desert mountain passes in 100-plus degree temperatures, withstanding punishing terrain off-road, conquering the frozen tundra, and enduring high-humidity chambers, salt baths and roads designed to destroy. Watch the video…

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Breaking Truck News: Ford announces F150 Hybrid Warranty. What are we going to do the old hybrid batteries? Will we shipp them to Mars? More that likely they will be recycled which is good. The hybrid warranty was a deciding factory when I bought my hybrid car. Read more about all the specs on the 2021 Ford F150 including warranties. Read…

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Auburn Hills, Mich. – Ram Truck announced that production of the third installment of “Built to Serve Edition” trucks will begin next month at its Sterling Heights (Michigan) Assembly Plant.

Ram is celebrating America’s five land, sea and air-based armed forces with “Built to Serve Editions” of its popular Ram 1500 half-ton pickup truck lineup.  More…. 

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2022, it’s coming all electric juiced F150. Yes 2022 mid-summer, you can have your cake and eat it too. More power, all electric F150 for more towing, more off-roading, more power, more juice. Check out more of the breaking story..

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The Jeep® brand has introduced its new Wrangler 4xe, marking the arrival of the most capable, technically advanced and eco-friendly Wrangler ever. Jeep Wrangler 4xe models will be available in Europe, China and the United States by early 2021. The Jeep Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe models – introduced last year in Geneva – began arriving in Europe this summer. The new Jeep 4xe models follow the introduction of the Jeep Grand Commander PHEV in China last year. More story…

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New 2021 Ram Limited Night Edition in 1500 and heavy duty. The Night Edition Rams have been popular in past years. Color coordinated grill, trim and monochromatic bumpers make it a looker. 20 inch wheels on a HD dually are rare from the factory. 19 speakers for the Harmon/Kardon premium sound system, sport hood on the 1500 and everyone wants to ride in your truck.

Read the Press Release…..

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All-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX Supercharged

• Rated at 702 horsepower, 650 lb.-ft. of torque
• 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.5 seconds; 0-100 mph in 10.5 seconds
• Quarter mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph
• Top speed of 118 mph, More Details….
  

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  2021 Bronco is finally here, well pictures and video anyway. Bronco Two, Four door and Sport. Topless, doorless, front and rear lockers and front sway bar disconnect make Bronco a true competitor for Jeep Wrangler. 35 in tires,  7-speed manual transmission  and of course a 10-speed automatic is just part of the story. 200 accessories for Bronco will also be an attack on Mopar and Wrangler sales. Things are heating up in Detroit.  Video Reveal :   Of course you’ll want to put a $100 deposit and get in line. Specs and details at Bronco Stats….

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  Breaking News: Next-Gen Ranger Raptor coming to the USA with a 2.7L EcoBoost V-6 twin turbo

  American Blue Oval fans were understandably feeling left out when Ford refused to sell the current-gen Ranger Raptor in the U.S. But if a report from Australian news site Car Expert proves true, they might be receiving a pretty nice consolation prize. The report claims that not only will the next-gen Ranger Raptor launch in the U.S., but it’ll also be powered by Ford’s 2.7L EcoBoost V6, not some diesel engine like the current model. As reported by FordAuthority.com        Read more….

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  Breaking News 2020 Ford Ranger Performance Upgrades: Three packages with tires, Fox Shocks, light bar, engine horse power along with graphic enhancements add excitement to off-road fun. See the upgrades and read new details.

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Check out the 2021 Ford F150 online launch. Video and article with all the stats that we know. Finally a Hybrid, power air dam, built in generator, around truck lighting, seats to sleep in and a fold out table in the console.

Check it out now…

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Ram Truck today announced pricing for the 2020 Ram 1500 powered by the new 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel engine with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $­­­­­­36,890 for the Tradesman Quad Cab 2WD, plus $1,695 destination. The EcoDiesel is a $4,995 option, or $3,000 premium over the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 eTorque ($3,300 on Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Rebel and Laramie base models). “The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel offers the best torque and towing among all half-ton diesel trucks,” More details….

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DETROIT — The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the available, all-new 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine delivers an EPA-estimated 33 mpg highway and 23 city in rear-wheel-drive models. EPA-estimated fuel economy for four-wheel drive models is 29 mpg highway/23 city. With an SAE-certified 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, the Silverado 3.0L Duramax with four-wheel drive is also capable of towing up to 9,300 pounds and a max payload of 1,870 pounds, meeting the towing needs of about 90 percent of light-duty customers.  More…

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3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine on F-150 is now available on XLT (302A) models. Previously, it was only available on Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum, but now it is also available on XLT 302A, our largest volume series. Now, the diesel engine is available on 75% of F-150’s mix, and F-150 has the only diesel available in its class. Customers and dealers told us they wanted this, so we listened and have made it available. The order bank opened last week.

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New 6.2L V-8 availability for Trail Boss, RST models: For 2020, more than half of Silverado trim levels will be available with the 6.2L V-8 with an SAE-certified 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. For the Custom Trail Boss and the LT Trail Boss, powered with the 6.2L V-8 for the first time.  For 2020, Silverado will be available with an all-new 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine dedicated to efficiency and refinement. More…

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Ford F-150 Is Best Performing Pickup Truck in IIHS Passenger-

Side Safety Testing; Earns All Good Ratings: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the 2019 Ford F-150 as the only truck to earn the top-tier good rating in every category, and the best performing truck among 11 pickups evaluated in passenger-side small overlap front crash testing. This follows testing by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that awarded F-150 crew cab a five-star overall vehicle score and a five-star rating for driver and passenger for all crash test modes. More…

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2019 Ram Chassis Cab designers worked closely with engineering to give Ram’s line of halo-capability trucks an optional level of comfort with the new Limited model for those customers who have an enthusiast’s passion and want a fitting truck to handle the weight. The 2019 Ram Chassis Cab also offers the class-exclusive 12-inch reconfigurable touchscreen display with SiriusXM with 360L. Adding to its leadership in technology, the new Ram Chassis Cab is the only truck in the segment to offer adaptive cruise control, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and AEB with trailer brakes on all trim levels. More…

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All new 2020 GMC Heavy Duty is coming soon: The bigger frame, stronger propulsion and smarter technologies are expected to deliver dramatically greater towing capacity than previous models, well in excess of 30,000 pounds. The new Sierra HD marks the introduction of an all-new 10-speed Allison automatic transmission — the first-ever offered in the heavy-duty pickup segment. The all-new 10-speed transmission with closer gear spacing allows the engine to operate in an optimal range at all times with varying load and terrain conditions.  An available class-leading 15 unique camera views¹, including an industry-first transparent trailer view, help optimize the driver’s view around the truck and compatible trailers to provide added confidence when towing.  More….

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1000 lb-ft of Torque RAM Diesel for 2019: Yes it finally happened, we knew a heavy duty truck diesel would eventually reach 1000 lb/ft of torque. Ram did it first, introduced at the NAIAS Detroit Auto Show.  New Cummins with 400 horsepower max towing is 35,100 lbs. updated frame, interior, axles, suspension is class leading. 6.4L Hemi engine gets an 8-speed. Last year was all about 1/2 ton trucks, 2019 will be all about heavy duty trucks, it’s going to be exciting. More of the press release…

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2020 HD Silverado: All new look, it’s taller, longer and meaner. Saw it in person and I was impressed. Looking at it head on takes some getting used to as with all new designs. Not sure how tall the new HD is yet, but Chevy tells me that the bed rail has been lowered not raised. Two engines for 2020 HD, Duramax V-8 diesel 910 lb-ft of torque with all new 10-speed Allison Automatic Transmission. A new gas direct injection engine to replace the old 6.0L with a 6-speed auto. Read More…. 

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The all-new Ranger has earned EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined for 4×2 trucks. When configured as a 4×4, Ranger returns EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. This is the best-in-class EPA-estimated city fuel economy rating of any gasoline-powered four-wheel-drive midsize pickup and it is an unsurpassed EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating. Ford MPG Release

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The Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD chassis cab trucks — the first-ever medium-duty Silverado trucks — are in production and on their way to dealerships starting today. The new Silverado trucks are popular with upfitters because the clean, straight frame rail design has no rivets, brackets or welds to get in the way. Additionally, the seven cab-to-axle lengths can work for a variety of upfits. Some of the strongest interest has come from the housing and highway construction, landscaping and utility industries. More…

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Defining the premium off-road segment, the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 is now available with the all-new Off-Road Performance Package. The Off-Road Performance Package adds factory-installed performance upgrades that bring additional power and purpose to the Sierra AT4. More…

The all-new Ranger has earned EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined for 4×2 trucks. When configured as a 4×4, Ranger returns EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. This is the best-in-class EPA-estimated city fuel economy rating of any gasoline-powered four-wheel-drive midsize pickup and it is an unsurpassed EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating. Ford MPG Release

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The Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD chassis cab trucks — the first-ever medium-duty Silverado trucks — are in production and on their way to dealerships starting today. The new Silverado trucks are popular with upfitters because the clean, straight frame rail design has no rivets, brackets or welds to get in the way. Additionally, the seven cab-to-axle lengths can work for a variety of upfits. Some of the strongest interest has come from the housing and highway construction, landscaping and utility industries. More…

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Defining the premium off-road segment, the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 is now available with the all-new Off-Road Performance Package. The Off-Road Performance Package adds factory-installed performance upgrades that bring additional power and purpose to the Sierra AT4. More…

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New Project Truck: 1994 Dodge 1500 4×4 shortbed 4 in lift, 3 in body lift

Bought the truck from a divorce on Craigslist. But it did give me the chance to meet Ruben with Advanced Transmission & Auto Repair in Longmont Colorado for his OverKill automatic transmission rebuild which makes the factory tranny better behind my 318 gas engine than came behind a Cummins diesel in 1994. And the fun just starts, This is the truck that will challenge Big Green and Rusty Boy at www.TFLtruck.com  More….

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2019 Raptor first drive. I like ATV’s and Side X Sides for off-roading fun. My favorite one is the Ford Raptor. Yes, it’s a truck but it jumps, rock crawls, fords creeks and does all that with air conditioning and XM radio. Ford flew me to Utah last week to the Utah Motorsports Park, home of Ford Performance Racing School. If you buy a Ford Performance vehicle like a Mustang GT or Raptor, you get to spend the day at the Racing School learning how to get the most out of handling and performance. At the track we jumped humps with the Raptor and tried to tip them over on a side hill. Read more…

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Reported from HardWorkingTrucks.com Graphene – a two-dimensional nanomaterial – is slated to into more than 10 under hood components of the company’s flagship pickup. Graphene is 200 times stronger than steel and one of the most conductive materials in the world. It is a great sound barrier and is extremely thin and flexible. Graphene, while not economically viable for all applications, will be used in small amounts in fuel rail covers, pump covers and front engine covers to maximize its strength benefits. It’s in cell phones and some sporting goods – and by year’s end it will be under the hood of Ford’s F-150. More….

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New Silverado 2.7L Turbo: The all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the technologically advanced 2.7L Turbo offers full-size truck customers a capable and efficient choice with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway in rear-wheel-drive models. To achieve both better performance and overall efficiency, engineers made smart choices with engine technologies, advanced manufacturing and the use of mixed materials. The base curb weight of the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado with the 2.7L Turbo is 380 pounds less than the current Silverado with the 4.3L V-6, despite having more interior room and cargo space.  More…. 

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DEARBORN, Mich., – It’s almost here. As the 2019 Built Ford Tough Ranger nears production, Ford announces its all-new midsize pickup for North America will deliver best-in-class payload, gas torque and towing capability. “Think of Ranger as the biggest and most capable backpack for your gear,” says Rick Bolt, Ford Ranger chief engineer. “With 1,860 pounds of maximum payload, Ranger can haul nearly a ton of gear to enable your next adventure.” The 2019 Ford Ranger’s standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® produces 270 horsepower and, more importantly, 310 lb.-ft. of torque. More….

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The 2019 Ram 1500 Rebel 12 special edition offers unique technology never before available on Rebel, including Ram’s Uconnect 4C with 12-inch screen and navigation. The fourth-generation Uconnect system includes enhanced processing power, multi-touch gestures, vivid imagery, sharper graphics and the ability to support smartphone integrations. The class-exclusive, 12-inch reconfigurable touchscreen display offers split-screen capability and tailor-made graphics. Next generation in-car audio entertainment debuts with industry exclusive SiriusXM with 360L – on-demand content and a personalized listening experience……More…..

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The upgraded 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor has picked up a new feature – Trail Control. It’s like cruise control for off-road driving.

This new innovation manages throttle and braking, allowing drivers to focus on steering through challenging off-road conditions. It makes taking Raptor through the rough stuff more fun than ever. Trail Control can be activated at speeds from 1 mph up to 20 mph. More…

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The Colorado ZR2 Bison joins Chevrolet’s midsize truck lineup as an all-new performance variant. Bison is Chevy’s first collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), a premium off-road aftermarket manufacturer.For maximum protection of key undercarriage elements while driving over rocky, jagged terrain, Bison features five skid plates covering the engine oil pan, fuel tank, transfer case and front and rear locking differentials. Designed by AEV, these skid plates are constructed of hard, durable hot-stamped Boron steel.  More…

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2019 Ford F-150 Limited has Raptor Engine, Ford now has Three 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 Engines:

Rated at 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque, the new Ford F-150 Limited leads the competition, offering more power than any light-duty pickup on the road. F-150 Limited sports a new dual exhaust system with exhaust tips smoothly integrated into new rear bumper cutouts. More….

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2019 Chevrolet Silverado Chassis Cab 4500HD MSRP Starts at $48,465

DETROIT – The manufacturer suggested retail prices for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado chassis cab trucks will start at $48,465, Chevrolet announced today. This includes a $1,495 destination charge, but excludes taxes, title and additional dealer fees. Customers can visit one of more than 400 Chevrolet commercial medium duty dealers to customize and price the all-new work truck. Production will begin in late 2018.

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2019 Silverado Delivers More Truck, More Capability, More Value

DETROIT – Today, Chevrolet announced that the 2019 Silverado LT will be larger, more capable, more fuel efficient and feature a starting at MSRP that is up to $700 less than the outgoing model.

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GMC Reaches New Heights with Next Gen 2019 Sierra Elevation

DETROIT – The launch of the next generation Sierra lineup continues with the introduction of the new 2019 GMC Sierra Elevation. Adding to other recently revealed bold, powerful models of the Sierra, the Elevation makes a statement in design, capability and advanced connectivity.

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The new 2018 Ford F150 diesel – has some surprising rpm and tow/haul mode characteristics I haven’t seen in a diesel. In the Ford Super Duties with 6.7L diesel in tow/haul mode, braking or towing downhill will down shift the transmission to slow you down. The diesels will only downshift if there is enough RPM band left to not go over redline around 3500 RPM. GM Duramax  diesel will defuel and go up to 4000 RPM’s with downshifting in tow/haul mode. Ford Super Duty and GM Heavy Duty diesels in the last couple of years will even continue to slow down after down shifting.  More….

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Ford is making its iconic F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup – even better with upgraded technology including class-exclusive, electronically controlled FOX^™ shocks, new Trail Control^™ and all-new Recaro sport seats. The upgrades are focused on key components that have made F-150 Raptor the benchmark in off-road trucks for an even tougher, smarter, more capable trail runner. More…

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A Silverado — and an Engine — for Every Need: The all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 offers six engine and transmission combinations, including an all-new 2.7L Turbo, and V-8 engines with industry-first Dynamic Fuel Management offering 17 different modes of cylinder deactivation. An all-new Duramax 3.0L Turbo Diesel with start/stop technology paired with a 10-speed transmission will be available as an option in early 2019…More….

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The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger Price & Build is live at More…..  Dealer order banks are now open and consumers may pre-order.

The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger starts at $25,395 including destination and delivery. The all-new Ranger is designed and engineered for the North American market. More….

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Ranger Trailer Blind Spot System: “You know, you may wonder why a midsize truck would need trailer Blind Spot. But it is the truck class that needs it the most. Ford F150 and Super Duty had this option in Bliss a couple years ago. But the bigger trucks can have wider towing mirrors and their body’s are wider, allowing the trailer mirrors to see more of the trailer sides. The narrower mid size trucks without towing mirrors will have a hard time seeing the trailer sides. Mid size trucks can now tow up to 7700 lbs. More…..

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Authentic Off-road Capability 

Sierra AT4 comes standard with a factory installed 2-inch suspension lift that provides additional ground clearance and four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case.

Sierra AT4 also includes standard off-road tuned Rancho monotube shock absorbers, a locking rear differential and Hill Descent Control, a driver assistance feature that leverages the anti-lock braking system to enable smooth, controlled descents on steep grades without the driver having to touch the brake pedal under certain conditions. The locking rear differential directs engine power equally to both rear wheels for the greatest traction on slippery or uneven terrain. More….

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Chevy 2019 Silverado first drive was in Jackson Hole Wyo. followed by GMC Sierra first drive in Newfoundland Canada. Big year for changes. Next year we’ll see new heavy duty trucks, my guess is we’ll see them first at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Yes truck prices are going up. There is so much safety equipment on trucks, you would have to try hard to get in an accident, that and all the pollution controls drives up new truck prices. Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra stand apart more with more recognizable individual features than I remember in past years.  More story….

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Ford F150 2018 Introduced in Detroit:

I just got use to the Ford F150 for 2017 with the new second generation Eco Boost 3.5L twin turbo with more power, dual injection and 10-speed auto tranny. But Ford flew me to Detroit to take a peak at the 2018 F150. Course it will be on sale this fall, but January seamed early to be looking at 2018. It was a embargoed news release and I was lucky enough to get to video an interview with the new Ford Truck group Marketing Manager, Todd Eckert. More…

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Yes, another project truck: 1971 Ford F250 High Boy Pickup Truck.

Finally I’m getting a Ford High Boy ( Factory High Rider ) again. I had a 1976 High-Boy 20 years ago. It was my favorite truck of the 20 plus trucks I’ve owned over the years. Doing brakes first, then tires, getting ready for the rocky trail.  More…. SOLD

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First drive in the all new 2019 Ram 1500 at Arizona. Cactus are tall and the boulders are big. The all new Ram is quieter, more fuel efficient with less vibration. Improved steering and handling. 12 inch touch screen will be the most talked about feature. Like a large tablet in the dash. Like a large tablet in the dash. New Rebel is more off-road worthy with best looking interior in my opinion. Tire track on the seats, red accent interior. Rebel steel progressive coil standard 1 in lift, air option 2 in lift.  Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs. Now with Quad cab or the new longer crew cab. More Ram 2019

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2019 truck parade for all new trucks

About every 10 years or so most of the trucks will come out all new and shiny over a couple of years. This year 2018 Ford’s new F150 diesel will be out in the second quarter. I went to the Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS) in January where Chevy showed us the all new 2019 Silverado 1/2 ton and Ram introduced it’s 2019 all new 1500. 2019 GMC is coming next. Ford re-introduced the 2019 Ranger that was missing since 2011. It won’t be out until the beginning of 2019 with the all new Bronco after that. Jeep has a new midsize truck that will join the growing midsize segment in 2019  See the new 2019 trucks….

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Ford answers the call from truck customers looking for an affordable, rugged, and maneuverable midsize pickup that’s Built Ford Tough; torture-tested alongside Ford F-150 trucks, Ranger quality starts with a rugged high-strength steel frame backbone, proven Ford-built 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine and class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission. Already #2 in global sales for midsize.  Comes in Super Crew with a 5 ft. bed and Super Cab with a 6 ft. bed. One wheelbase, one transmission, one engine, there’s a theme going on here. The rest of the report…..

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2019 Edge SUV: Ford begins introducing the coveted ST brand to its SUV lineup with the unveiling of the all-new Edge ST today, building on its best-ever SUV sales year in the U.S. The all-new Edge ST  Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by the Ford Performance team  features the most powerful V6 engine available in its class with a specially tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost^® engine pumping out 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s also outfitted for dynamic handling with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, an available performance brake package, and ST-tuned sport suspension…. More…

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Ford F150 New 2018 turbo diesel 3.0L PS. Does Ford finally has a 30 MPG full size pickup truck? They think so. In the early eighties, Ford Ranger had a Perkins diesel option rated over 40 MPG but not a big trailering machine. The new 2018 Ford F150 3.0L V6 turbo diesel can tow 11,400 lbs properly equipped, that’s a big number. Also in the eighties with gas station lines from oil shortages, we thought we’d see 1/2 ton diesels. All we got was the 5.7L Olds diesel in GM trucks that almost ended pickup truck diesels. Today it’s a different story. Read more….

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The new 2018 Expedition with the only engine choice, 3.5L Eco Boost V-6 twin turbo with 400 horsepower and 480 foot pounds of torque like the F150. The Platinum, top package gets a little more power out of the Eco Boost. New is the 10-speed auto like the F150 and aluminum skin like the F150. The EL package is replaced with MAX for the longer version. This gives you larger second row doors and sliding seats. Captain chairs will give you seat belts for seven, middle roll bench seats means seats for eight. The new 10-speed tranny is controlled with a knob, big knob. Read more….

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All-new 2019 Silverado builds on 100 years of Chevy Truck expertise

The 2019 Silverado’s strong, modern design advances Chevrolet’s history of industry-leading pickup design. It’s a legacy built on decades of experience with models such as the Advance Design trucks of the 1950s and the C/K series of the 1960s. Those trucks set the standard for pickup design in their eras, and currently are some of the most coveted vintage trucks on the market. The next-generation Silverado is poised to change the face of trucks again. There’s More….

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New Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel Has Best-in-Class EPA Estimated: Videos near top page

30 MPG Highway Fuel Economy Rating
• Efficient: 2018 F-150 3.0-liter Power Stroke® diesel has a best-in-class EPA-estimated fuel
economy rating of 30 mpg highway
• Powerful: First-ever F-150 Power Stroke diesel engine offers best-in-class 250 diesel
horsepower and 440 lb.-ft. of torque
• Capable: Diesel-equipped F-150 brings best-in-class diesel towing and payload capacity.

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CM Truck Bed Review and Install: On the farm I found my favorite tool when I put a steel flatbed on my 1977 C30 Chevy dually. With the stiff springs in the 1977 one ton, adding the weight of the steel flatbed, calmed down the ride. I could drink coffee finally and drive. But it was so useful, had a Montezuma toolbox, generator, vice, torch and a recessed gooseneck ball. I put my backhoe bucket on the end of the bed, chain it to the ball, and lifted the backhoe front tires off the ground. After disconnecting the hydrostatic transmission, I was rolling down the road at 60 mph without a trailer. That truck flatbed was my portable shop bench. See the review..

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The 2018 Super Duty more power for 2018: Best-in-class 450 horsepower (a 10 horsepower improvement over 2017). Best-in-class 935 lb.-ft. of torque (a 10 lb.-ft. improvement over 2017). Best-in-class 34,000 pounds of gooseneck towing, when properly equipped (a 1,500-pound improvement for the new F-450 4×2 model). Best-in-class 21,000-pound conventional hitch towing. Best-in-class 7,630-pound payload capacity. Read More…. 

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Stable Boy RV Horse Hauler

Stable Boy Aluminum Modular Horse Stalls for your RV Toy Hauler: When toy haulers first appeared, I knew they would be big. You can haul ATV’s, motorcycles, snowmobiles and golf carts. RV’s have less trouble with police and the questions of being commercial or civilian. So why not use a RV toy hauler to haul horses. Imagine a 5th wheel RV, walking up to the bedroom, stand around the bed, open the closet and dresser drawers and you’re still standing up. Now think about the gooseneck of your horse trailer The full story…

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2019 GMC 1500 Denali and Sierra SLT reveal first look from Detroit

First look at the 2019 GMC 1500 Sierra trucks. New body, new bed, super tailgate, carbon fiber bed, diesel and so much more. New trailering aides with trailer camera, trailer tire pressure and heat monitoring. New truck braking, 10-speed tranny, brake controller to the right side. And even a centered steering wheel.

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2019 Ram 1500 debut in Detroit, all new truck. All new 2019 Ram 1500 makes it’s first appearance at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. New look, new frame, lighter, bigger cab, longer wheelbase and a new Rebel.

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2017 Heavy Duty diesel: Finally its’ a real 2017 truck. GM has teased us for years about their new Duramax diesel for HD trucks. We seen them in camouflage in the Rockies towing trailers, we’ve seen spy photos with a new hood scoop and this went on for years. GM flew me to Texas to drive the new heavy duties on the Texas Motor Speedway ahead of the State Fair of Texas. Chevrolet set a record on the track towing the largest US flag behind the new truck in a dramatic introduction with a group of Chevy owners with high mile Chevy trucks following. Read more….

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2017 Ford Raptor Excitement ‘ I didn’t know a truck could get me this excited and I live and breath trucks ! I’ve been steering trucks for 45 years and this is the most fun I’ve had. We climbed rocks that would make a horse nervous, floated on the Ocotillo Wells desert at 100 mph in Southern California and took on switchbacks on pavement that would make a car slide. So many changes for the second generation Raptor, from the 6.2L V-8 replaced with the EcoBoost 3.5L twin turbo with new electronic waste gates, dual injectors taking the power up to 450 horse power and 510 lb. ft. of torque. And the new 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters …..More

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Titan XD Diesel: Big news doesn’t happen in the pickup truck world very often. But Nissan has become aggressive after 12 years at the rear of Class one. The new diesel XD is Class one and a half. Blurring the line between 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton pickup truck, Titan XD should be on your shopping list if you need more than a half ton but don’t need to tow a tank. The XD is set up with standard towing equipment. It comes with a Cummins 5.0L V-8 diesel, integrated trailer brake controller, factory gooseneck ball hitch, rear anti-sway bar, recirculating ball steering, towing mirrors and 10 ply tires. Sounds like a 3/4 ton. More……

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 Ford introduces 2017 Super Duty trucks, setting a new standard in Heavy Duty Pickup Trucks: Yes 2017 truck models are finally revealed. I’ve seen them in camouflage on I-70 but now we know what they really look like. I can stop saying how ugly the Ford dually fenders are because they changed. Still has the round lip but behind that is a real boxy fender. The controversial 2015 F150 with the aluminum body is now on the Super Duty F250-350-450-550. Not just an aluminum cab but the same cabs as the F150 on regular, Super and Crew Cab. The Ford Super Duty was the largest crew cab 16 years ago but became the smallest of the Detroit Three. The Ford F150 grew with a large flat floor under the second row and larger front doors. Ford saved some money and now uses the same cabs on all their trucks. This made the Super Duty crew cab 4 inches longer and it’s taller. More….

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2017 Honda Ridgeline: Is it a truck? Yes, it’s different though it may be the future of trucks. I see it as another choice in a crowed midsize category. The good: this new model looks more like a truck (maybe an El Camino) than the last Ridgeline. May not be a truck for a farmer or rancher, but could be a second truck and would fit lots of folks in town just needing a few trips to Home Depot or towing a boat. The new Ridgeline is a utility tool with a tailgate that swings down or to the side for ease of loading and a trunk under the bed that could be a hot tub or a weather proof storage trunk. The bed size is useful,  5’5″ long 50 in wide, the same inside with as a dually.  More….

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The Biggest Truck Test with Trailers: Once again I’m privileged to be on the team with PickupTrucks.com for their extreme heavy duty truck comparison, class 2 and 3. It’s called the 2014 Ultimate HD Challenge with mostly 2015 HD trucks. I drove all the trucks, towed trailers with all the trucks, brake tested, raced, hill climb, MPG, Davis Dam, Eisenhower Tunnel, 2 miles in the sky up 7% grades, dessert heat, as good as a truck test gets. Load Trail supplied 30K goosenecks with 2 weeks on the road. Read the 3/4 ton Gas Truck contest : Read the 1 ton Diesel Dually contest.

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Ram Power Wagon 2016, the Off-Road King. When you think of a heavy duty truck, you think heavy for towing trailers. The Ram Power Wagon is heavy, curb weight of 7056 lbs. When you think of an off-road truck, you think light duty or Jeep size. But the Power Wagon breaks all the rules, a solid truck that can go anywhere, just like they did in World War II.  But the new Power Wagon is an agile mountain goat. With locking front and rear differential, a 12,000 lb winch, a lift kit, skid plates and the front sway bar disconnects for tremendous wheel travel over rocks.  It’s the only truck that comes with a 12,000 lb. winch from the factory.  Read the reivew….

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Titan: I was the

re when it all started, in 2003 Nissan introduced the all new 2004 Titan 1/2 ton truck at Napa Valley California.  The truck I just reviewed is the new 1/2 ton 2017 PRO-4X crew cab 4×4 with a 5′ 6″ bed. The original Titan was fun to drive, it would spin the tires at will, burn kitties and donuts, a blast on the autocross track. The new truck still has a 5.6L V-8 but updated, improved and now 390 horsepower with 394 torque. Also new is the 7-speed automatic transmission. More….

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Nissan brings out the second in-between XD pickup but with a gas engine. Super It’s the same truck we reviewed earlier with the Cummins diesel, but now the 5.6L V-8 gas engine and new 7-speed automatic tranny. Same body, same frame but the gas version is 500 lbs lighter without the diesel engine, DEF tank and different exhaust.  This gives the all aluminum 5.6L V-8 a big space in front of the engine. This truck feels like a heavy duty truck but a little more nimble than the diesel version, due to less weight especially up front and one more gear in the tranny improves…..More…

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 2016 all new Toyota  Tacoma: New look, new body, new engines, new transmissions and it’s about time. It’s just been 11 years since any big change. The truck I tested was a loaded double cab TRD Off-Road 4×4. The new 6 speed automatic replaces the 5-speed auto. A 3.5L  V-6 with 278 horsepower and  265 torque, replaces the 4.0 L V-6 with 42 more horsepower now. New direct fuel injection and one port injector for 7 injectors on a V-6. Quieter cab, less road noise, doors and glass have improved seals. The new frame has more high strength steel.The Review…..

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Super Duty: All-new aluminum body F-Series Super Duty can tow heavier trailers and haul heavier cargo than ever before, with maximum gooseneck towing capacity raised to 32,500 pounds on F-450 SuperCrew 4×4, fifth-wheel towing capacity boosted to 27,500 pounds and conventional towing to 21,000 pounds; maximum payload now rated at up to  7,630 pounds. These new weights puts Ford on top for class 3 truck rating. 2017 F350 dually now has a gooseneck capacity of 32,000 lbs. up from 26,500 lbs for 2016, which….More….

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Ram Cummins diesels are keeping Ford up nights with 900 lb.-ft. of torque for 2016 Competition improves choices: when I think of the trucks I had in the seventies and how often I changed alternators, starters, clutches, u-joints etc. verses my truck now that I just change oil, I’m glad we have a strong rivalry between truck manufactures. This is why we have integrated trailer brake controllers, factory exhaust brake and factory gooseneck hitches in our new trucks. The big contest was between Ford and Chevy. Now Ram with Cummins raised the bar making the big battle between Ram and Ford in the heavy duty market.

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Ford Super Duty 2015

2015 Ford Super Duty: My big problem with Ford Super Duty Power Stroke diesel since 2011, is the lack of an exhaust brake. No button to turn it on, it came on automatically in tow mode according to Ford. We tested it on 7% grades with maximum capacity trailers and were very disappointed, very little exhaust brake. Scroll ahead to this years 2015 second generation Power Stroke diesel F250, F350 and F450 with a larger turbo and a dedicated “exhaust brake” button and it’s night and day… More…..

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 First Drive, Aluminum 2015 Ford F150, 700 lbs Lighter. Now for the Ford F150 for 2015, it’s an all new truck. I lost track after I counted 10 major changes. We’ll all been hearing about the aluminum skin for over a year now. We also know that the 2016 Ford Super Duty will be aluminum skin. But wait there’s more, more than any other truck in history has changed this much. More….

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Nissan Titan, the truck is back from the Dead… The new XD Titan diesel has clues pointing that it’s beefier that a 1/2 ton. Five leaf springs at the rear axle with two overload leafs. Recirculating ball steering not found in modern 1/2 ton’s, a factory gooseneck ball hitch in the bed, reinforced boxed frame, 12,000 lb plus trailer capacity, and oh yes a Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. Read More…

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It’s Real Horse Race with Ram Going after Fords 2015 Power Numbers: In 15 years of reviewing trucks, 
Someone woke up the sleeping Ram bear and it’s growling. Ram fans have a winner and are enjoying the battle between Ram and Ford. We got use to Ford battling GM for the title for decades, but Ram pushed GM’s Chevrolet and GMC back to third place. With GM dropping their Class 4 and 5 cab & chassis truck, Ram is using Ford’s play book. More….

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Heavy Duty Ram for 2015 has only one change.  But it’s embargoed for another week. You have to come to my website MrTruck.com to found out in September. Meaning this review will help even for the 2015 Ram. I was part of the PickupTrucks.com Ultimate HD Challenge published last week. We had  3 new 3/4 ton gas trucks towing trailers around Detroit for a week of hill climbs, brake tests, 1/4 mile racing and MPG tours. Then 2 weeks later we were towing my trailers in the Rockies from Dillon to the tunnels on I-70. The winner for the heavy duty gas engine trucks was the 2014 Ram 2500 with the Hemi 6.4L. More…..

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Ram Truck Announces Industry’s Broadest Alignment with Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2807 Towing Standards Across All Pickup Truck Segments

Ram Truck is the only full-size pickup truck manufacturer to adopt the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2807 towing practices in all three pickup truck segments (½-ton, ¾-ton and 1-ton) Maximum towing capacities unchanged or improved under SAE standardized J2807 More….

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GM 1500 with 8-speed in 6.2L

GM Gears Up For More Truck Wars 2015: The 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 maintains a 12,000-pound maximum trailering rating under SAE J2807. Chevrolet and GMC have confirmed a new eight-speed automatic transmission will be standard on 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra models equipped with the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8.

First year for the integrated trailer brake controller for electric over hydraulic brakes. Quieter again with the Duramax diesel. They’ve always been quiet going back to 2001 birth, but now…. More….

Ram EcoDiesel 28-MPG

The EcoDiesel-powered 2014 Ram 1500 has earned a 28-mpg rating from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the best highway-cycle test result ever achieved by a full-size, half-ton pickup.

It also exceeds the EPA highway rating for the top-ranked small pickup. The breakthrough results mean Ram keeps the half-ton fuel-economy record set last year by the 2013 Ram 1500. Equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 gasoline engine, the truck earned 25 mpg highway, a rating that stands for model-year 2014. The Ram 1500 now owns the half-ton pickup segment’s top two spots in the EPA’s 2014 highway fuel-economy rankings. More…

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Ford for 2015 has an all new aluminum body F150 with Adaptive Cruise Control, 360-degree camera system, Smarter Trailer Tow Module like you’re always wanted. Adaptive Cruise means you can lock on to the speed of the car in front of you. The new Tow Module will tell you when a blinker bulb goes out on your trailer and the 360 camera will keep you out of the body shop.Read more….

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Ram 2014 mega changes

Ram finally got serious about the truck race in 2013 with one innovation after another with a diesel in the Grand Cherokee, 4 corner air suspension on the 1500 and eight speed auto, 30k trailer towing in the 3500 and Smart Exhaust Brake, then a few months later for 2014, rear air suspension or coil for the 2500, rear hybrid air suspension for 3500 and the new 6.4L HEMI V-8. Wow, what’s left to improve on trucks? Ram just jumped ahead a decade in 2 years. More…

Grand Cherokee Diesel

 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland EcoDiesel: Watch out European SUV diesel’s, Grand Cherokee is a contender with V-6 diesel, 8-speed automatic transmission and four corner air suspension.  The EPA rates the diesel for 28 mpg on the highway, my highway driving was over 30 mpg. The diesel is quiet and smooth with the 8-speed.. More…..

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Ford F150 CNG

Ford introduced the F150 for 2014 with a CNG option, betting more companies and some consumers will buy a truck that burns American fuel and could be the future of having the US oil independent.  Besides making T. Boone Pickens happy, more short haul truck fleets are converting to LNG (liquid natural gas) especially at ports like in California.

Video CNG F150 part 1  Video CNG F150 part 2

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The 2013 Ram 3500 will change the truck and trailer industry. The top end trailer size for pickups will go from 20k to 30k capacity quickly. I doesn’t seem that long ago when one ton dually trucks could tow 15,000 lbs, then in 2011 model year it went up to over 22,000 lbs and now Ram is boosting 30,000 lbs for a gooseneck trailer. A big dramatic jump in towing capacity, we new it was coming. In the seventies we called a decked out one ton dually a “Cowboy Kenworth”, now we’re over 1/2 way to the big rigs. CB and an air horn should be options on this Laramie Longhorn. read the review…

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King of Beasts, truck shootout

King of Beasts shootout with Pickuptrucks.com and MrTruck.com. Because of all the turmoil around standardized testing for heavy-duty trucks, we knew it was time to take the two strongest HD pickups on a fact-finding mission to explore their maximum tow capacities and how that translates into the real world. It’s a big review, took over a week and a couple thousand miles.

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DETROIT – The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and High Country and the GMCSierra and Sierra Denali 1500, available this fall, with a 6.2L V-8 produces an SAE-certified 420 horsepower (at 5600 rpm) and 460 lb-ft of torque (at 4100 rpm), the most power of any pickup engine and torque of any light duty pickup truck engine.The 6.2L V-8 available for Silverado LTZ and High Country and Sierra SLT and Denali models also delivers class-leading maximum available trailering capacity of 12,000 pounds when properly equipped. Read more…

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Spied by MrTruck in Thornton CO, what I think is the 2016 Ford F450, maybe aluminum skin like the 2015 F150. 10 lug points to F450.

It has a deeper front grill. It’s a tall truck that is heavily disguised.  Looks like a larger crew cab and new dually fenders. More pictures….

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Big News from Ford: Super Duty jumps ahead of Ram for towing capacity. Second-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbo diesel boosts horsepower to a class-leading 440 horsepower; torque to class-leading 860 lb.-ft. for all models. F-450 chassis upgrades raise maximum gooseneck trailer towing capacity to class-leading 31,200 pounds, and gross combined weight rating to a class-leading 40,000 pounds. F-350 available with maximum towing package that increases fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer towing capacity to 26,500 pounds. More news…. 

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But wait, there’s more: Ford’s already teasing us with 2016. F650-750 are making a comeback with gas and diesel options. Offered in three cab styles – Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab – and three models – straight frame, dock height and an all-new dedicated tractor model for heavy towing – the new F-650/F-750 features a bold look inside and out, a powerful and efficient second-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 diesel, medium-duty six-speed TorqShift® automatic transmission. More story…

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2013 Ram 1500 Big Changes, now we’ll see what Fiat’s management improvements to the Ram will be– improved fuel economy fuel-saving systems including a more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine and first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension. A Hemi with air ride and 8 speed 

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Ford Super Duty 2013: You wouldn’t know there’s a recession going on with truck sales this year. And for 2013, Ford ups the ante with their most luxurious model Super Duty yet, the Platinum. I always thought King Ranch was as high as a truck could get and my favorite. Platinum, like the F150 is about the chrome, chrome on mirrors, door handles, tailgate and a chrome perforated mesh in the horizontal bars in the grill. Bigger nav. screen and more…..

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The Outdoorsman model has a complete trailer option package with mirrors, brake controller, heavy duty engine and transmission cooling , the Hemi 5.7L MDS, 3.92 axle ratio, 6.5 screen GPS, and backup camera. My favorite option, double folding center console storage that folds up for the middle seat for six. More…

Ram Outdoorsman 1500, Hemi and a Gun Rack towing a Logan Coach; Outdoorsman model 1500 Ram, crew cab a loaded model. This truck is ready for elk season. This media truck had a gun rack in the bedrail weather poof RamBox storage for two rifles with scopes. A better option over guns in scabbards on the truck floor. More…

GMC Sierra 3500HD Wins Best Overall HD Truck; 2011-08-15 DETROIT – The GMC Sierra 3500HD won PickupTrucks.com’s “Heavy Duty Hurt Locker” comparison test, a grueling showdown among industry heavyweights that included towing 19,400-pound fifth-wheel trailers up and over some of the most demanding grades in the United States. 2012 HD Upgrades announced….

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2011 Heavy- Duty Hurt Locker Ultimate Truck Towing Comparison

PickupTrucks.com and MrTruck.com present the 2011 HD Pickup Truck “Hurt Locker” Towing Test. Towing at the trucks max capacity, we travel, deserts, mountains, extreme grades, and trailer brake test. Part one… Part two…

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2011 GM HD 2500 LT singe cab. Such big improvement to the GM HD line for 2011, from diesel engine, frame, suspension, steering, braking etc. This model of the GMT900 platform is the most significant truck improvement for GM since the Duramax diesel came about in 2001.

2011 Chevy HD 2500 LT single cab with big gauges, a nice layout, you can see them at a glance while driving. You need to know at a glance if engine temp in the normal range, oil pressure, transmission temp, battery charge all in operating range. A change in gauge readings will give you early warnings Read more…

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Towing with 2011 Toyota’s, Cimarron and Titan Trailers Tundra full size 1/2 ton is a top towing truck in it’s class. Towing ability is the hidden equation with most trucks. Marketing departments keep the public confused on how much trucks can tow by bragging about a trailer towing weight and then in the fine print explaining that weight is only for a 4×2 regular cab.

Finally there’s hope comparing truck models towing ability. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) has established towing standards that go into affect 2013. Toyota takes the lead with tow ratings, being SAE J2807 standard compliant on all 2011 models already. With the price of fuel you may need an oil well above or a load of hay to ride your horse to Starbucks. We tow Cimarron and Titan trailers with 2011Tundra and Tacoma More…

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2011 FORD F-150 SVT RAPTOR ADDS SUPERCREW, TOWING, 6.2-LITER ENGINE: “We spent a lot of time getting the ride and suspension characteristics of the SuperCrew similar to that of the SuperCab.” A larger 36-gallon fuel tank and increased towing capability – rated at 8,000 pounds – keep F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew a mainstay in the desert environment, with capabilities as a chase or tow truck. More…

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2011 Heavy Duty GM’s, More Power, More Frame and More Suspension: For 2011 GM went massive truck improvement, as in frame, suspension, payload, brakes and towing ability puts Chevy and GMC HD trucks at the top of their segment. It’s improvements we all want and of course the power and fuel mileage have also improved. The new suspension keeps the power under control and tires planted on the pavement. Read MrTruck review…

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Grand Cherokee Limited and Featherlite Trailers: Cherokee’s have always been fun to drive. That’s why I write, to have fun on the road. This all new re-designed Grand Cherokee Limited is as loaded as it gets. The new design is slightly larger with more room inside, but hasn’t lost the sharp looks or off-road ability it’s famous for. The Grand Cherokee has many off road controls like Land Rover.

Push button start, you can keep the key in your pocket. Fun to drive, who wants to make payments on a vehicle that is boring. We towed a Featherlite horse trailer. Featherlite Trailers is one of the few companies that started the aluminum horse trailer craze that’s still strong today.  Aluminum lasts, looks good for decades. If Featherlite didn’t change the graphics from time to time, you wouldn’t know a 20 year old trailer from a one year old trailer. More…

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2011 Super Duty, Fuel Efficient Fords; Finally better fuel mileage, no diesel engine price increase, all new 6-speed automatic, standard exhaust brake and telescoping steering wheel, oh my! You may think this is Ford’s first diesel, in a truck in the USA, you’re right. But Ford has diesels around the world. My New Holland swather in the eighties had a Ford industrial diesel, and Ford tractors had diesels built in England. Building the diesel engine and new 6-speed transmission in-house, is part of the answer to holding price down. Turbo lag is gone, we’ve been promised this before, and now smooth acceleration all the way to redline.  The rest of the report….

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The Infintiti QX56 is a fun ride that works well towing trailers. With a 8500 lb. trailer capacity, the Q56 can tow a 3 horse trailer under control. Rear automatic air leveling ride kept the trailers I towed, level. Even the automatic high intensity discharge xenon headlights, are auto leveling. A class 4 receiver hitch, 400 hp V-8, 413 torque going through a 7-speed automatic is made for mountain towing. More….

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2010 Heavy Duty Shootout Comparison

It’s time again for our truck shootout. Every couple of years, we have enough all new trucks in a category to compare. Of course it’s with trailers, towing up 16 % grades, drag racing, testing brakes, exhaust brakes, grade shifting and fuel mileage. With graphs, charts and butt dyno. Score a truck to tow your trailer, here is the guide. The whole story….

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2010 Toyota Sequoia Tows Featherlite, 4Runner Tows Safr and Hat Catcher Review: Sequoia full size SUV, is a luxury ride and can tow trailers. Car like ride, firm in response to bumps, but not harsh and not a boat float ride like the old wagons. The transmission has…4Runner came with Hill Start and Down Hill Decent, equipped well for off-road fun. The seats are comfortable. The V-6 towed well, staying closer to 3000 RPM’s, but shifted often. 4Runner is… Hat Catcher, small and easy to take along. Good hats aren’t cheap, you can’t leave them on the truck seat. Newer cars, SUV’s and trucks headrest… More….

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2010 Toyota Tundra 4.6L I towed the Titan dump trailer back from Kansas with the Toyota Tundra and the new 4.6L V-8. Also towed some Titan horse and stock trailers when I toured the factory in Waterville Kansas. The power of the 5.7L V-8 is awesome and a great towing combination with the 6-speed auto and 4.30 axle ratio, but with fuel prices uncertain….more…

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2009 Dodge 1/2 ton, the theme of the new Ram with rear coil springs, handling, cornering, stability and storage. I’ve been a fan of rear leaf springs for decades and considered coil springs that most SUV’s have now, as less desirable for towing. But if you put a truck on a lift with rear leafs and move the axle, it’s surprising how much play is back there with the axle hanging. I towed a horse trailer and a travel trailer, was impressed with the handling. Click for story….

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2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty, 2500-5500

Now a full size Crew Cab and an eight ft. bed. 2010 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab still only in a short bed (6′ 4″), new sexy more aerodynamic fenders are all metal now. Styling cues inside and out are from the 2009 Ram 1500 for a quieter, tighter cab. No Urea (diesel exhaust fluid) like Ford and GM diesels for 2010 new emission laws. Dodge will be the only truck offering a manual and automatic transmission.The review…

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I know it’s hard to find trucks equipped to tow the big trailers. We’ve found them. Click to see the inventory. Light Duty, Class 2-3 Medium Duty,Class 4-5 and Heavy Duty Class 6-7-8 or call 1-800-909-7071.Larger trucks for your larger Trailers .

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2009 Silverado Crew Cab, new 6-speed auto tranny tows a Logan Coach well in Rockies. Crew cabs are the new “mini” van with folding rear seats for hauling cargo inside and cup holders galore. Factory option trailer brake controller, new for GM 1/2 tons. More…..

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Sterling Bullet makes a great hauler truck. The 6-speed heavy duty Aisin auto, grade shifted a couple of times, using the built in exhaust brake, kept my foot off the brake coming down Loveland pass towing a Cimarron LQ horse trailer. The variable turbo sleeve controls air flow to the engine and closes making the exhaust brake. A unique efficient design. You can add a bed from 8′ to 16′ to the different wheel bases available. 7000 lb. front axle, 13,500 lb. rear axle on a 50,000 psi frame with 34″ frame railing to accommodate More…

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At the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio, I was doing circle contests with the Freightliner M2 and the GMC Denali Quadrasteer. Of course the Quadrasteer won. But when I shut off the 4-Wheel Steer, the Freightliner M2 won. When means the M2 can turn tighter than just about any truck.

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Ford announces 2009 F150 with more towing features. Trailer sway control can determine from the yaw motion of the truck if the trailer is swaying and….Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is factory-installed and allows direct More…

The new 2009 Ford F-150 offers customers the most choice with more configurations than any other full-size pickup on the market. With three cab styles, four box options and seven unique trim levels, the F-150 comes in 35 different configurations to…. More…

2009 Ford F150 with new 6-speed, diesel and turbo gas engines coming in 2010. The striking F-150 Platinum features More…

Update: 2009 Ford F150, King of Towing, You may not need a F250! Ford King Ranch, gorgeous brown paint, thick full grain leather seats, big towing mirrors, 6-speed automatic, bold chrome grill, 20 inch wheels, just makes you drool ! At least if you’re into towing trailers. Tops the 1/2 ton class at 11,300 lbs trailer capacity for all three cab configurations, not just a single cab. That makes it easy to match your trailer. Growing segment of folks downsizing and still towing. Ford is leading the pack for 1/2 ton trailer capacity and payload. SuperCrew has the only 1/2 ton truck with a 6.5″ bed option. This helps with gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers. No V-6 or manual transmission More…

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ShootOut 2008 for 2009 1/2 ton trucks: At PickupTrucks.com and MrTruck.com, You want all the truck details so that you can make the best decision possible. That’s why we created Light-Duty and Heavy-Duty Shootouts that put these ever-changing trucks to the ultimate tests.

Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4

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Ford 2009 F150, most popular vehicle fighting for position. The new 2009 Ford F150 is part of the trend to 1/2 trailering with trailer brake controller, similar to the option with Super Duty, first time extendable trailer mirrors and trailer sway control. Higher towing weight rating, higher payload, stronger frame, a new 6-speed auto tranny with grade shifting like big brother F250, make the F150 on the border of 3/4 ton capacity. The Roll Stability Control detects when your trailer is swaying and controls the truck to counter act the trailer sway. Or Max Trailer Tow Package option, will also apply the trailer brakes automatically in a trailer sway…. More…

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First time I herded Buffalo, I mean Bison and my first trip to Yellowstone, was a kick driving the all new 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser 200 series. The Land Cruiser was Toyota’s first vehicle to the US back in 1957. he Cruiser, makes a great tow vehicle. The ride and handling is smooth, you’re in a solid vehicle with very little outside influence like wind making no difference with a heavy 5690 lb curb weight. The Land Cruiser has the tightest steering I can remember. This makes driving fatigue go away. Rest of the review….

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2009 Dodge Ram, new coil spring rear suspension, finally a normal crew cab called Ram Crew, bed storage under the rail and cab floor storage, plus more. More….

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Longer 2008 Nissan Titan. Longer beds, more payloads, the Titan reaches for more customers. Last year I drove across the bridge that collapsed in Minnesota across the mighty Mississippi twice, once going to the Minnesota Horse Expo and to the 2008 Nissan Titan press preview traveling from Minnesota to Wisconsin. Off-roading at Apple Valley Farms near Sand Creek, Wisconsin, the new e-locker rear differential lock that you turn off and on. did well in the muddy trail. More….

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2008 Ford F450, will be here soon. Factory bed, factory step and had rail built into the tailgate, power folding trailer mirrors, quite exhaust & yes, the 6.4L twin turbo diesel.More

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GM Hybrids, 40% improvement in city fuel mileage gets your attention. That’s the story of hybrids, incredible mileage tooling around town. Part of that is to regenerative braking, which charges the batteries when you brake. With Active Fuel Management, the truck can run on half of it’s cylinders. GM hybrids can tow up to 6,100 pounds. More…

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MrTruck.com joins PickupTruck.com for their 2007 Heavy Duty Shootout with trailers. This is one intense truck comparison. Part One Part Two Part Three

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New 2007 Tundra, the Limo that Tows Trailers Fast,2007 Tundra introduced at the National Western Stock Show & Detroit Auto Show. Nice for Toyota’s 50 anniversary to introduce a true full size truck. Known as dependable, Toyota trucks may now set benchmarks for how full size trucks are designed. I’m impressed.read the review…

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First look at the 2007 Silverado and Sierra. Still waiting to drive the new truck, but I am excited that the seat belt is back in the ceiling, adjustable and the end of side terminal batteries. The new GMT900 platform from which the 2007 GM SUV’s…Click….

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Cinch plus GM plus Monroe equals Cool Crew Cab 2007. The Cinch package from Monroe, has awesome leather seats, 15.3 inch overhead DVD, center console, backup cameras on both hitches and tow mirrors. When you use the blinker, the camera shows what that outside mirror sees in your GPS screen in the dash. You can get air ride cab, rear axle and seats. The Duramax 6.6L LMM diesel and the 8.1L gas engine both come with the 6-speed Allison Automatic. It’s rated to tow 16.500 lbs. This is conservative and I expect it to go up. More…

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New Active Fuel Management Cylinder Deactivation shows in the dash when switching from V8 to V4, all seamless you wouldn’t know it if you didn’t look at the indicator in the dash. This is part of reason this new Tahoe gets 21 highway mpg EPA rating on the 4×4.. Even with a bolder bigger nose, the Tahoe has 8% less drag as wind resistance. The dash has more digital info with a tire pressure read out and tranny…More…

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2007 Ford Expedition EL, longer, stronger and a 6-speed. I took the new Expedition through the winding Washington hills as fast the tires would hold me. It handled superbly, with no resemblance of the old leaning SUV’s we drove a few years back. More….

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I took the 07 Sport Trac off road near Camp Pendleton. With front & rear traction control, it climbed like a rock crawler. Having traction control instead of limited slip or locking differential, allowed me to turn corners in 4WD, have traction and no wheel hop. Roll Stability Control, standard on the Sport Trac, great for a truck with an empty bed as well as stability in bad road conditions. I think all trucks need it.  More…

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I’m reviewing a 2006 GMC Sierra SLT HD 2500 now with the Duramax with 360 horsepower and 650 torque right from the factory is addicting. I towed a new 6 horse Cimarron trailer through Eisenhower tunnel in January out the west side in a snow storm and had complete control with the manual switch on the new 6-Speed Allison that let me down shift by pushing a button making the torque converter lockup in each gear as…..More…

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2006 Explorer, new 6-speed auto, 3-valve 4.6L V-8 and it’s quieter and of tows more. I flew to New York to drive it. 15 years of the #1 SUV, read my review… also SUV’s and towing revisited.

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2006 Lincoln Mark LT Truck Towing a Hart Thoroughbred. The luxury truck market is a fickle one. Maybe it’s the 4×4 option or the fact that it’s great looking F150 or maybe the hip hop stars haven’t bought as many Lincolns as the Cadillac Escalade. But it’s a sharp looking truck! The waterfall grill, chrome, chrome and more chrome does say Bling More…

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2005 Ford F350’s TowCommand trailer brake controller, TowingFeatherlite, and reviewing TireStep. Plus Elk Herding at Estes Park. The first manufacture to offer a “built in” trailer brake controller, Ford introduced the TowCommand last fall in the 05 SD. I tried it at the Ford proving grounds. This is an update towing in the Rockies. Read…

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All new from the frame up, the 05 Frontier & Xterra are over engineered, using the Titan 5-speed auto transmission, Dana 44 rear axle & frame rails. With the most horsepower in the midsize class, the Frontier sits low with great off-road capability. I like the folding passenger seat for my laptop. If you think driving using cell phones are dangerous, wait till you see me driving & reading email. More

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2004 Infinity QX56 SUV & Hart aluminum horse trailers are both upper scale and make a good looking couple. The new 2004 QX56 is the first Infiniti model assembled in North America. Hart Medallion aluminum horse trailer reminds me of the beautiful sheet metal on Audi’s and Porshe. Also in this review are Tow-N-See extended mirrors Much more..

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#17) I drove the 05 Ford Escape Hybrid in Denver. With $2 gas, the Escape is the first SUV to go Hybrid. And a true hybrid, developing it’s own energy to charge it’s batteries from applying the brakes and run on an eclectic motor alone. Something we did a lot of in downtown Denver. More…

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Quadrasteer GMC towing a Zeppelin travel trailer to Estes Park at the Spruce Lake RV Park. The Denali is on the move again showing off it’s backing skills in the picturesque Rocky Mountains. It makes me want to move to the hills near the Big Thompson River. Read more…

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#16) The Quadrasteer Adventure Tour Part 1, Towing a Horse Trailer at 14,000ft. Extreme Towing I. Read my first article in the series and see what your missing. Also Reviewing a Logan Contender Steel Horse Trailer. More….

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Quadrasteer Adventure Tour Part 2. Cutting edge Denali QS truck tows the cutting edge loader from Bobcat. My review of the Toolcat 5600 4-Wheel-Steer loader. And more opinions of towing with Quadrasteer by first timer Read More…

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Quadrasteer Tour Part 4 Reviewing Outfitter’s Caribou popup camper showing how far into the mountain forest I can get with this truly versatile combination. We tow boats and horse trailers, because we can. There is enough payload capacity left for the tongue weight of a boat or 2-horse trailer. Also Torklift’s camper tie down review. Read.

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Hummer H2 proved to be a great trailer tower.Equalizer wdh made it a easy pulling a 34′ travel trailer from Nevada to Colorado in December threw mountain passes and snow storms. Read the story from Ultimate Hummers Magazine.

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SUV’s aren’t my first choice as a tow vehicle, but I do understand the economics. Not everyone can afford a truck and a car. And the size, weight and height of a SUV gives you the feeling of safety in traffic. You want that same safety towing a horse trailer by making the right choice matching your trailer and SUV. More…

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04 Titan XE King Cab off-roading with the Outfitter Popup Camper.Made for each other, the Titan stays level with the 1500# camper onboard. The tailgate had to come out, but that’s simple. It’s not hard to find a camper that will fit the Titan. Bed dimensions are very close to a Ford F150 97-03 models. Read the whole story.

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2003 Lincoln Aviator and Coyote travel trailer.

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1) Desert Test drives starring Ford 6.0L PS

2) The GM Suburban Quadrasteer reviews.

3) 2003 Dodge diesel & Featherlite.

4) 2003 Hummer 2 review

5)  2004 Ford F150

6) 2003 Lincoln Aviator

7) 2004 Nissan Titan

8)  03 Dodge Hemi 2500 & dump trailer

9)  2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee

10)  2004 Nissan Pathfinder Armada

11) Hemi Durango review, along with Ice Driving School and Red Rocks. Read More…

12) 2003 SS Silverado by Rick Vorce

13) 2nd look at the all new Ford F150 & sailboats that live in Colorado. click to see the whole story…

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