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Argar865
02-15-2015, 10:14 PM
Hi everyone! First post here!

I am considering purchasing the following truck:
1982 GMC Dually with 6.2 liter diesel, banks turbo kit, hi/lo gear selector

The owner doesn't know anything about it really other than the condition is good and it has been well taken care of.

He found out that the tranny is a Th400 and it has a dana 70 rear with he thinks 3.42 gearing.

He shared the capacity pic for it but it doesn't include (as near as I can figure) the gcvw or the actual weight of the truck.

It appears to have a rating according to the pic of 10,000 gvwr 3800 frt gawr and 7056 rear gawr.

I am looking at buying this as a sometimes driver but also to occasionally pull my 36' 16,000lb. Gvwr fifth wheel. I don't want to tow more than its rated for due to insurance reasons. I know with this 6.2 I won't win any speed races but is it enough to pull this trailer or do I need to go newer which have the more capacity ratings.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!
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wingnut60
02-16-2015, 09:48 PM
The older trucks were all lacking in actual towing/load capacity.
A 16000 GVWR trailer could have a pin weight of 3200lbs, +/-
I think you can do it, but it would be close on weight ratings. And, no, you wont win any races.
i also don't think you would have a problem with insurance--have yet to hear of a verified insurance denial due to overweight on an RV.
Joe

billr
02-17-2015, 04:30 PM
We used to tow with an older GMC Dually, was a 13K fifth wheel. About 2400lb pin. No issues except over heating and lack of umph on hills. Slowed down to 30 mph on not so steep grades... It had a 454 no diesel. 410 gear. The same tranny, but is was always maintained well. A must on those.

Your Gross capacity on the truck will be over with the pin as Joe mentioned.

Short local trips might be fine, long hauls might need more thought.

billr
02-17-2015, 04:35 PM
We used to tow with an older GMC Dually, was a 13K fifth wheel. About 2400lb pin. No issues except over heating and lack of umph on hills. Slowed down to 30 mph on not so steep grades... It had a 454 no diesel. 410 gear. The same tranny, but is was always maintained well. A must on those.

Your Gross capacity on the truck will be over with the pin as Joe mentioned.

Short local trips might be fine, long hauls might need more thought.

mikey4813
05-17-2015, 02:21 PM
At 3200 pin weight you will apprach or exceed your rear axle weight rating. With older trucks, just about all will get her moving, but gettin the "whoa" thing to work is another ball game altogether! Be careful of your choices.

Travel safe to enjoy your journeys!