How much HP/Torque

[Rick A]

We are considering a conversion. Leaning towards a 28' box with a 106" BBC truck to keep overall length managable. Want to be able to tow about 15K lbs as well. Ideally, what HP/Torque ratings would suit this setup. I have looked into Freightliner, International, and Kenworth so far. They seem to run about 300 - 330 hp and 950 to 1200 ft/ld of torque. It is all so confusing looking all these numbers. Any suggestions appreciated!

 

[spooner]

Rick A
where are you located and where do you travel?
IMHO towing here in the west i would recommend to set the bar a little higher

i personaly like one of the bigblocks (like the Cat C15 or Cummins N14/ISX) set at its base setting of ~430 hp/ 1500+ lbs torque. superior power for the monster grades around here but not too bad in MPG.

 

[KAYE RIVERCITY]

....I go along with spooner......maybe you won't need all the torque everytime....but it will sure be handy when you have a long grade and you get slow start up from the bottom with a full load.....trailer and all....geofkaye

 

[fastlap]

My conversion is approx 28' frt. bumper to ball on hitch (smaller than most)
weight empty is 27000lbs
My engine is 525 hp 1850ftlbs!
My fuel mileage is 10.3 mpg avg more if I slow down (slightly more )
My world is flat ! There is no such thing as a hill ( even with a loaded trailer )
I down shift to slow down , I upshift to climb hills !
How much hp an tq is enough ? I am right at the minimum now ! good luck t.