I wasn't too sure where to insert this comment, but for a while now I've felt compelled to make an observation. I just wanted to say that I'm impressed with the patience of the forum staff. Over and over I have read threads here where people are trying to justify towing close to or over the rated capacity of their trucks. I can understand the desire to avoid upgrading a TV, I'm not rich either.
When I'm towing a camper, however, three of the most precious things in the world to me are riding along: my son, my wife, and my dog. Okay, the dog is a distant third, but I would be devastated to lose him too. Five feet behind my 5 year old son's head is a 10,000 pound fifth wheel camper. I'm sorry, but I'm going for overkill when it comes to the truck. In fact, we bought a cheaper camper so that we could put more money into the truck. It makes me sick to think of my son getting injured, and to think it was because I put him in danger, I don't know if I could live with that.
I'm a careful driver, but unless the roads are all 0% grade and have no other drivers, the sky's are sunny and clear, and a 12' electric fence has been erected on either side of the road to keep the deer and other animals away, I've got to make sure my rig is under control at all times. It's not if I'll ever have a panic situation, it's when.
Sorry, I've just felt compelled to say this for a while. Now that it's off my chest, I feel much better. Thanks!
-Dave