almost agree. gauges are essential, and improved suspension, brakes, etc. are a must as is a WDH. However, when it comes to cooling, you are essentially advocating a 'wait and see' approach that gambles on ... what? if we do it your way, we load up and go and
then find out we're overheating. After we're on the trip. Now what? dump the load, what?
I'm a big believer in preventative action, i.e., installing the most cooling ability I can afford BEFORE i start towing.
Having said all that, the OEM config is capable of towing a
small trailer quite easily. it all comes down to what you're hooking up to. If he's starting to push the factory ratings, then he needs to take a strong look at any and every affordable upgrade. this is a time to get the experts involved... or just get a properly equipped truck to start with. in some ways, you and I are saying almost the same thing...
I am
not comfortable taking my trucks to their limits when I don't have to. I want my truck to last forever. I'm not here to find out what it can take; I'm here to get where I'm going without breaking anything. I want to minimize the load on the power plant, suspension, and drive train as much as possible, by dissipating heat, managing the load (brake controller, WDH and such) and so on.
to be clear, this is what I'm doing:
- upgrading the radiator
- installing another, external, trans and oil cooler(s)
- e-fans are a possibility (still researching these - not entirely satisfied as to their reliability and effectiveness)
- improving suspension and brakes (very mild lift, being careful of payload here. I'm up to just shy of 10" of ground clearance, I'd like a couple more inches but I'm not willing to risk the suspension to get it.)
- since I have an 04 with the 9.75 rear, I'm considering a locker in the back and the front, but not the same one. I'm considering Detroit in the back and an OX in the front.
- and yes, a WDH, but not a 4 thousand dollar one. I'm sure that's a great WDH, but I'm also sure I'll never tow anything needing that. Not with an 04 Expy, anway. I'll be towing, at most, a two axle camping trailer in the 25' or so range.