Tow Vehicle, what should I get?

[THawkbh]

Thanks for all the good input guys. I'm considering all of it.

Is 4wd really that important. Llime rock and wgi are pretty much completely paved.

[Ron Earp]

I don't own either of these suggestions, but if I were doing the tow truck thing all over again I'd look for either a Ford 250/350 diesel 2wd six speed (rare, it'll be at least seven years old and in your budget), or a Dodge 2500/3500 diesel 2wd six speed (not as rare as the Ford).

Where I live 4WD is not required thus eliminating it removes weight and complexity (plus lowers the ride height to a reasonable level for a short guy), and maybe that is the same for you. Simple, proven, and durable.

[dickita15]

I am towing a 24 footer packed full of crap with a 5 year old Dodge Ram 2500 4X4 with a Hemi. I bought new with the towing and plowing packages. I would love to have the diesel but do not be afraid of the gas motor. It is faster up hills than Greg’s V10 E350 and way faster that my buddy’s 350 Chevy half ton even when he is using the open trailer.

[joeg]

I rely on 4X4 a bit. Grassy paddocks can turn into muddy paddocks and with a nose heavy diesel, I often grab the 4X4 lever.

[Greg Amy]

The only time I've ever needed 4WD was to use our diesel Excursion to pull a Class A motorhome and its 40-foot trailer out of the muck at Pocono...

[benspeed]

Greg, if I get stuck I'm looking for you, bro!!!

[JeffYoung]

4X4 where we live is not needed, and is an expensive option on the Ram.

It's pretty easy to locate 6speed manual Rams, and the pre 04 ones go for just under 10k right now. Great engine, decent truck.