Hitch Weight
Currently looking at SUV' s as a tow vehicle and my question is how much weight will these vehicles accommodate (safely) without over loading. Is there a place on the internet where this information i...
Forum Discussion
The owners manual will list a GCWR for your specific cab/trim/axle ratio and engine.
On the drivers door jamb, you will find the GVWR and rear axle GAWR. If you do not know what these terms mean, check the manufacturers towing guide.
Now get the truck weighed with full passenger load, cargo and full fuel.
GCWR - loaded truck = maximum loaded trailer weight (not dry weight)
GVWR - loaded truck = maximum loaded trailer pin or hitch weight.
Forget the dry weight and brochure weights on the trailers. You can easily be 500 to 1000# over the dry weight. Any item listed as an option is not included in the dry weight. things like the A/C, microwave, TV, batteries, propane, awning, etc.
To estimate a hitch weight on a trailer, use 12% of the trailers GVWR as a good estimate.
The trucks tow ratings are maximums from the manufacturer are a maximum and are rated on a stripped base model truck with no cargo, no hitch, no options or accessories and only a 150# driver on board. So you cannot use these unless you are a small guy that travel alone in a stripped down base model truck.
Ken
On the drivers door jamb, you will find the GVWR and rear axle GAWR. If you do not know what these terms mean, check the manufacturers towing guide.
Now get the truck weighed with full passenger load, cargo and full fuel.
GCWR - loaded truck = maximum loaded trailer weight (not dry weight)
GVWR - loaded truck = maximum loaded trailer pin or hitch weight.
Forget the dry weight and brochure weights on the trailers. You can easily be 500 to 1000# over the dry weight. Any item listed as an option is not included in the dry weight. things like the A/C, microwave, TV, batteries, propane, awning, etc.
To estimate a hitch weight on a trailer, use 12% of the trailers GVWR as a good estimate.
The trucks tow ratings are maximums from the manufacturer are a maximum and are rated on a stripped base model truck with no cargo, no hitch, no options or accessories and only a 150# driver on board. So you cannot use these unless you are a small guy that travel alone in a stripped down base model truck.
Ken
