totaldla wrote:
Payload gets tossed around a lot, but I think it needs a bit more definition.
So what happens if you exceed the door plate ratings?
If you're 100 lbs over, nothing ... but if you're consistently 500+ lbs over payload on a 1/2 ton truck you can certainly expect to start seeing drive train issues. It's the raison d'etre for 3/4 and 1 tons. :p
I just reviewed my own Trailer Towing Capacity Worksheet - my 2012 Silvy has a GVWR of 7000 lbs and a stickered payload capacity of 1450 lbs. However, after weighing it with a full tank of gas I find it's actual curb weight as it sits ready to be hitched to a trailer is 5600 lbs, leaving a real world payload capacity of just 1400 lbs. Our 19' trailer averages only ~ 4800 lbs loaded & ready to camp, yet once I factor in the weight of 2 adults, one BIG dog in the cab, 200 lbs for average cargo load in the truck bed, 90 lbs for weight distribution, plus an average 625 lbs of trailer gross tongue weight I'm only 25 lbs below the truck's maximum payload capacity of 1400 lbs. And this is with a trailer weighing just 4800 lbs. :E
