What's the best MPG pickup out there for $12000? or what's a good trailer to get I'm debating on whether to trade in my wrangler for a truck or just buy a trailer ( something I hate having to use )
New truck or trailer?
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Trailer 
(broken link removed to http://www.heavyhaulertrailers.com/store/detail/6ft7in_x_12ft_single_axle_utility_trailer_5000
vw_28)
(broken link removed to http://www.heavyhaulertrailers.com/store/detail/6ft7in_x_12ft_single_axle_utility_trailer_5000vw_28)
If you're looking for something for firewood, a trailer works well. I especially like the lower loading height over a pickup. Depends on what you want and are comfortable with. I've been pulling trailers around since I've been able to drive.
Eatonpcat
Minister of Fire
Trailer
Wow...That does not look like a 5,000 gvwr trailer, but the price says it's as 5,000 lb axle. This being said, I think it would be easy to find a dual axle car hauler for the same price that would be a better choice! IMHO
5k axle but maybe 2-3k frame, not to mention 4 pin plug means no brakes!
Agree for hauling wood, 7-10k car trailer is the best choice. Can load 2 cords on it.
The little trailers do work, but the more trips made means that wood is costing more and more.
Agree for hauling wood, 7-10k car trailer is the best choice. Can load 2 cords on it.
The little trailers do work, but the more trips made means that wood is costing more and more.
Any suggestions on a pickup? Does anyone have any experience with Lowes trailers. If I go with a trailer it will be for firewood trash hauling and supplies from the hardware store. I hate using the jeep as a tow vehicle which is why Im considering a truck but at the same time still considering a trailer because I hate to get rid of my jeep its a lot of fun.
Eatonpcat
Minister of Fire
Or hell a Pete 379 with dump box... a winter (or three) of wood in one trip!... only set you back about $100k... pocket change for most of us right? 
Yeah that's a good idea I think Ill go to the dealer tomorrow and pick one up or maybe two so the wife can haul firewood too.Or hell a Pete 379 with dump box... a winter (or three) of wood in one trip!... only set you back about $100k... pocket change for most of us right?
I think I've seen ComputerUser posting pics of a Wrangler with a trailer full of wood. Can anybody confirm that? If I remember correctly, for the 2 door, you can move 2500lbs. I think the tongue weight has to be a light 250lbs though.
Matt
Matt
I towed a small pop up camper one before and it wasn't fun. Was for sure a case of the tail wagging the dog the whole trip.
Eatonpcat
Minister of Fire
It can be done but it's not fun. A full trailer load on a light, short wheelbase with brakes adequate for stopping only the vehicle makes for some interesting driving.
Not sure in your area but ~$3k here will get you a decent used truck, not the best on fuel or prettiest but a solid truck.
Eatonpcat
Minister of Fire
If I go the the used route Id be looking at anywhere from 3-6k for a decent used truck. This really is turning into a big debate in the household and in my head Im torn on what to do here. Id love to keep the jeep and buy a truck.
I need to sell my '94 Ranger there. Picked it up for $2400 in 2007 with 50K miles on it. Now has 56K. It has a true overdrive 5th gear and gets an easy 32 mpg on the freeway. Not a spot of rust on it, never seen road salt.
+1 on the Ranger. Its a great little truck as is the older Toyota Tacoma. For your price range the only full size trucks youll find will have relatively high mileage.Towing or more specifically backing up a trailer takes a little practice and if its a big enough trailer to carry a couple of green cords you will need something more than a jeep to pull it anyway. plus you need a place to park the trailer when youre not using it.
I'd look for a used trailer. Not too big so you're not tempted to over load it. If you try it & decide it'd not for you you can sell for what you paid & look for a truck. You're out nothing but some time.
Eatonpcat
Minister of Fire
I purchased a $100 popup stripped it down to the frame and rebuilt it into a wood hauler. ( I am not saying for you to strip and rebuild ) reason being it has no motor and I can pull it with anything that has a hitch. This means your not reliant on a motorized truck only for you firewood.
Pete
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