Forum Discussion

bubba_and_dog's avatar
Mar 03, 2016

Weight to tow thru mountains

I'm looking at 2 trailers that should be well within my truck's towing capacity on paper, but it will be towed thru mountains (Smoky and Rocky) at least part of the time. The trailers are very similar, but one has a small dinette slideout, and is 1000 lbs heavier. That small slideout gives a little more kitchen space, which my wife would like, and more room for the dog. (Wife will accept either trailer.)

Just wondering whether I'd regret the extra weight driving in the mountains.

2013 Tundra Crewmax 5.7 w/tow package
dry trailer wts 5400 vs 4400; gross 7500 vs 6500; 23&24 ft boxes.
Jay Flight 23RB vs 24RBS w/extras

Thanks!
  • Thanks, all! I'm now more comfortable going with the slideout.

    As you can tell, I don't want to abuse the truck or neglect the wife. I'd like to keep them both for awhile!

    I'll check the tire situation.

    Just noticed an interesting error in my original post, which I corrected. There was a "d" after 5.7 in my truck description. It is NOT a diesel Tundra. Don't know if that affects any opinions.
  • the bear II wrote:
    Wife must be happy.....nuf said.

    Yep. If the DW isn't happy, it would be easier and cheaper to get a bigger truck. :)
  • I think in the end you will both be happier with the slide out.
  • You'll be fine with either.
    You may have some wiggle due to P tires on your Tundra as others find with P tires and max trailer size. If that happens many move up to a LT C (50 psi) or even a D (65 psi). Just make sure the Tundras OEM wheel are rated for 65 psi if you plan on using them at those pressures.

    The 7500 GVWR trailer weighs 5400 dry which means it has approx 2000 lb CCC. I would guess the trailer may weigh closer to 6800 lbs when its loaded = 900-1000 lb hitch weight.