Becky -

My $0.02 worth:

If you aren't doing a lot of trailering w/ your horses, a 1/2 ton pickup is "enough" for most simple 2 horse trailers. I live in the upper midwest - its relatively flat and straight. Lot's of people get away w/ a two horse and a half ton like this. Most of the horse people I know who do a lot of trailering, or who plan long trips west or south, have a 3/4 ton or bigger.

As you move up to a bigger trailer, you will quickly bump up against the limits of your truck. The engine and transmission is probably fine. I'd think about the suspension though.

If you are going to more horses, or going to a 2 horse w/ a dressing room in front, both total weight and tounge weight go up quickly. This can push the limits of the load carrying ability of a 1/2 ton.

Another consideration that always concerns me is the fact that you are towing a "live" load. As you know, horses move, their balance shifts - and without enough suspension in the truck, you'll know it.

I re-read your post - a gooseneck is more stable to tow, a two or three horse stock style and small dressing/tack area may be light enough for your existing truck - but I'd be careful about much more.

Check the empty weight of the trailer, guesstimate the weight of the critters, tack, hay water, and so on, add in the people, and then check it all against the capacity listings in owners manual or on sticker inside the drivers door. (FYI: my aluminum skinned, 3 horse, slant load, bumper pull has an empty weight of around 4100#).

Another option which I haven't checked myself is to beef up the suspension of your existing truck...there are shops that can re-spring, improve shocks, etc and this might do the trick. I'm told its not too expensive, but not sure what that means.

Good luck -

Stan

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