Size of truck

jerem0621 wrote:
....snip......
Here is my opinion and how to break this all down simply.

Forget half-ton, 3/4 ton, 1 ton designations.

1) figure out your trailers GVWR, if its a TT multiply that by 15%, if its a fiver multiply that GVWR number by 25%. Now you have two important numbers

Pin/Tongue weight and GVWR.

2) Calculate what your truck Has to carry normally... this number will be passengers, and gear in the truck (while towing I suggest loading the trailer and use the vehicle for passengers while towing.. JMHO, especially if you have a lighter payload number)

3) Add the normal cargo number and the Pin/Tongue weight... this will give you an approximate MAX that your truck will be required to carry.

Does your truck or the truck you are thinking about buying measure up?

Example...

I have a family of four...

Me- Decreas payload by -85 (150 of which is calculated in the curb weight of the truck, so decrease payload by 85 lbs, I weigh 225 lbs)
DW - decrease available payload by -150lbs
DS1- Decrease available payload by -175lbs (will increase as child ages)
DS2- Decrease Available payload by -155 lbs (will increase as child ages)
Misc weight- diabetic meds, snacks, purse, video game junk, pillows, blankets etc... -100 lbs.

Weight my truck HAS to carry = 665 lbs, or round up to 700 lbs.

I want a really nice BunkHouse for my boys... so I have to go out and find one that when loaded for camping in our style will have a tongue weight around 700-800 lbs.

Don't forget to account for the weight of the hitch too.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

Even easier, simpler, and more accurate, load the tow vehicle as it will be for towing and run it across the scales and subtract that number from the factory gvwr rating. It is too easy for forget firewood, tools, generators, truck caps, fuel, etc. You will probably be surprised at how little payload the average half ton has available. Lots less than the salesman said.