Trying to understand payload

fla-gypsy wrote:
Your reluctance to consider a domestic truck is too bad. Some offer much more payload when configured properly and they are very well made. You have limited your choices severely by buying into the deception about the superiority of foreign based trucks.

I agree with this but that doesn't mean that imports don't have some strengths. I've owned both and the Import was used mainly as a commuter vehicle. In that role, it shone. As a towing vehicle, not so much.

I think what most folks go for are the name brand, the bling, and then the economy. The Toyota trucks have most of that.

As is becoming shown here, there are a couple of different schools of thought about towing and ratings. Some folks think that towing/loading up to or even over the ratings is OK. The other school is that one should have plenty of "headroom" regarding the ratings and larger trucks are best. I know what works for me and that doesn't have to be for everybody but, IMO, hauling right on the edge of the weight ratings is going to effect the longevity of the vehicle. It may also effect safety.