Understanding towing weights?

FootSoldier wrote:
Ok, first, big thanks to JIMNLIN! He pointed me to the 2021 GM Online Order Guide where I could find all the detailed info I could not find in other brochures or sources. All right there together.

Thanks to everyone for your help and advice. I had to get to this spot understanding the how and why, now I feel like I'm there.

I won't go all into our trailer choice, but suffice it to say, it's way over anything I thought we'd ever do. 34'3", 12,995 GVWR.

The truck need list; fit into our garage, safely/legally tow our trailer, and not be a PITA to drive when not towing. My preference was 3/4 ton diesel because I knew (from owning my old 1500HD 6.0L for 20 yrs) would fit in the garage and be enjoyable to drive. The towing capability part? That I didn't know at all.

After your help and JIMNLIN's, now I can list my choices and understand them.

Our new truck will be a 3500HD 4x4 diesel SB SRW GMC. Compared to the 2500HD; curb weight +128, RR GAWR +650, max trailer weight +2800, payload +622, and cost MSRP +$1200.

The 3500 will easily check all the boxes on my list and give us a little extra wiggle room for the safety/confidence factor, for almost no difference in $$. A truck with DRW LB would require extensive remodel or a new garage.

All that, and we got it done in less that 4 pages! LOL! I really do appreciate everyone's willingness to help us.

Safe travels!

Steve

cptqueeg wrote:
Yes payload is the limiting factor. Forget the 3/4T. There is no reason to buy a 3/4T vs a 1T to tow a 34' FW.

In 6 pages from now we'll be discussing a 350/3500 and whether it should be a SRW or DRW. ;)

I thought it was done on the 4th post, just a few mins over an hour from your OP. ;)


I do understand and find it very comforting to understand all the deets behind the decision, though and appreciate the sharing of knowledge here.