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why_fly_high's avatar
why_fly_high
Explorer
Mar 09, 2018

Warning newb question

I apologize if this is asked regularly but want to use my own numbers to understand things the best I can.

We want to get a travel trailer to pull with our 2015 Tahoe. The tow capacity is not an issue. We are looking at trailers well under that limit of 8300lbs. I am trying to get my head around the vehicle capacity limit.

My vehicle has a useable load limit of 1554lbs.

My family of 2 adults and 2 teenage boys weigh 640lbs
a full tank of gas weighs 140lbs.
our 2 dogs together weigh combined 80lbs
weight distribution hitch 100lbs
misc stuff in car: 50lbs
Total: 1,010lbs

Would that not leave me with a maximum tongue weight allowed of 544lbs?

Thanks!
  • kerrlakeRoo's avatar
    kerrlakeRoo
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2018
    As Camp-n-family said your number from the factory supposedly allows for a full tank of fuel, and I believe 150 lbs for the driver.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 09, 2018
    If at all possible load everything up like your going camping and drive across a set of scales. Mfg published numbers are often no where close when it comes to an wctual vehicle.
  • camp-n-family's avatar
    camp-n-family
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2018
    Close. Your payload includes full fluids so no need to deduct 140lbs for fuel. Your total weight added would be 870lbs leaving 684lbs for tongue weight. That would put you in the ballpark of a trailer under 5k loaded. Some tongue weight does get transferred back to the trailer with a WD hitch but if you need that to stay under ratings you’re pushing the limit.

    Going a little over payload won’t hurt just be sure to stay under tire and axle ratings.

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