Towing with a half ton

Sessionh wrote:
Thanks again for all the advice. My sticker on the door says to not exceed 1703lbs.

Ok, this is your starting point.

Next, have you added any accessories or options to your truck since you bought it new? If yes, then the weight of those need to be subtracted from your 1703 lbs.

Next, you need to gather up all the stuff you plan on putting in or on your truck, including you, passengers, equipment, tools, camping gear, wood, etc. and subtract that from the figure you got above.

What is left over will be the maximum weight of a travel trailer's tongue weight your truck will safely handle.

So, find the trailer to your liking and get the GVWR of the trailer and multiply that weight by .15 (15%). That will give you the trailer's tongue weight. Match that up with what payload figure you came up with above. If under, you're pretty much good to go. If over, find another trailer.

As mentioned in a previous reply above, you will also need a weight distribution device...preferably one with integrated sway control. There are basically two different systems.

First is those controlled by friction (ie: Reese Dual Cam and Equal-i-zer) and those controlled by mechanical means (ie: Hensley Arrow and Pro Pride). The mechanical device will eliminate the possibility of sway, but their cost is much more than the friction type. Finding a used one on ebay will cut the cost a lot.

The friction type units are much cheaper, but keep in mind they only help to control sway....not eliminate it.

If you are purchasing a new trailer, maybe you can get the dealer to include one of the mechanical devices in on the price of the trailer.

Good luck in your quest.

Ron