Buying new 2018 Surveyor

[bikendan]

YES, check the payload capacity on each truck you look at.
Ram and Tundra 1/2 tons tend to have low payload capacities on their crew cabs.
The 2019 Rams are supposed to have higher numbers now.

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[mawilson]

Okay, I'm a Ford truck guy. Even though Ford wasn't on your short list, If you look at them focus on the 3.5L Eco Boost. The optimum tow configuration is 3.5L, 10 spd, 3.55 elec lock, crew cab, 6.5' bed and, most important, Max Tow. That config is rated at 18.5K combined, 13+K trailer. Good luck finding one, though, especially with tow mirrors. It's rated tow capacity is about 1200# less than an F250 gasser.

Good things to have on that 1/2T are transmission oil cooler, aux. engine oil cooler, and as much payload as possible. You might want to check out the section on towing for considerations. Since you don't have any hard numbers for weight and capacity, err on the side of caution. Whatever you do, take what the (trailer or truck) sales person says with a grain of salt. The book numbers are all out there even though those can be misleading as well. Check the ratings on the inside of the driver's door and the ratings posted on the trailer.


Y'all are embarking on a new, thrilling adventure. Please take the time to learn as much as you can about the more technical aspects. This forum has a lot of really good resources for that. I probably spent the equivalent to a 3hr college course before I ever got my Surveyor.

[mannagills]

I tow our 287 BHSS with a Ram 1500. I have no problems at all. In addition to what everybody else has said, try to get the integrated trailer brake controller and factory tow mirrors. I got the brake controller and it works much better than the aftermarket controller on my prior vehicle. I just spent about $500 to install aftermarket tow mirrors because I did not get the factory ones. Both items works better and make towing simpler and safer.

[zmandunk4]

We bought a 2019 Surveyor 287BHSS this year after buying a Keystone last year. The difference was astounding. We love our new camper. It has the typical new camper issues (loose screws, minor seal issue on the roof) but the fit and finish is awesome. I would absolutely recommend this brand. I also tow it with a Ram 1500 and have zero issues. Hope this helps.

Z

[Coolharts]

Our early 2017 3 slide 33RETS is holding up well, we have had a few minor issues since the warranty expired, I do all of the repairs.


Be particular with it under warranty and get it repaired ASAP, usually stuff will fail in the first year if it is bad from the factory, after that it is usually wear and tear.