I hear you DevilDog but I do have one other concern with keeping my truck for the tow vehicle. I’m really close to being maxed out according to factory specs and most likely over with any weight in the truck/trailer. I’m concerned that if I’m ever unfortunate enough to get in some kind of accident whether it’s my fault or not that if I’m over capacity some lawyer is going to come after me and my insurance company will say sorry, too bad so sad, you weren’t legal.
The great debate of payload and GVWR is not fun.
But for this sake...lets go with the DOT is going to weigh your axles. I feel you would be under all axle weights with the current truck.
But, if you are buying another...but ultimately not getting a bigger camper or doing it weekly...i would stick with a 1500.
If you feel you may get another larger camper or start going more often...then definitely get a 2500. But the RPM issue is not going away.
I own 3 RAM trucks, all Gas engines. I have also owned a Cummins. For what I do....the gas engines do it just fine...BUT, I am perfectly fine holding 3rd gear and running 3000 RPM.
Although the power of the Diesel is great...exhaust brake is the only thing I miss. At my speeds in my area with my camper...there is no need for more power and the Diesel is just such a nail biting experience wandering what the next issue will be. So, the Cummins is gone and the mighty 8.0l V10, the high stung 5.7 HEMI and the great 392 share towing duties at my house. I love hearing them sing their anthem. They work great.
If I could use a 1500 I would...but I haul more than I tow and haul while towing...so I need a 2500 and need the 8 foot bed.
I have one other question...have you camped before? I only ask cause I see so many wanting to be a camper and then realizing they do not like it. You said you are new to towing, just thought maybe new to camping. It is a great hobby...but boy is it crowded right now, and really is a lot of work.
Hope it all works out for you. Bored on my morning break...so just thought i would reply one more time.