Forum Discussion

FL_JasonR's avatar
FL_JasonR
Explorer
Oct 24, 2020

Has anyone tried to modify their 1/2 ton?

I am looking for a toy hauler to put a golf cart in. I’ve seen a few but they will be about 10,000 pounds after everything is loaded. Current tow capacity on the truck is 9300lbs. With GVWR @ 7,000lbs. I found a shop that will add an extra leaf to the rear end (.47in steel leaf, was told that would add roughly 600lbs each side) and install HD sway bars. Do you think this will be enough to increase my GVWR?
  • I'm going to lock this as it is double posted in towing section.

    YES it is NOT illegal to up the gvwr of a vehicle. Aftermarket places do it on a daily basis. They can change the gvwr of said rig. A lot of things get done aftermarket to vehicles. Probably half of the motorhomes on the road have a different gver on them as they have aftermarket tag axles, or the body manufacture wants it to have a gvwr equal to the sum of the axles!

    With this all said. The OP may be able to add the add a leafs and be fine. Then again, as noted, something else may break, warranty is out the door.....

    Marty
  • Buddy put a dually rear axle assembly under his F150. Rear axle could handle a big load, the rest of the truck was soon destroyed. There are some who think axle ratings are all that matters. I disagree.
  • Adding leafs to the springs or air bags will take care of sagging, but they won't cure your 1/2T brakes, transmission, drive line or the rear axle itself. I don't understand why people buy 1/2T SUVS.

    Bill
  • replies in your other posting say it well. Adding leaf springs, air bags, are not a due load capacity upgrade.
    At issue is the safety of your family and us others. Far cheaper and simpler to upgrade your tow vehicle to heavy standard than to make a 1/2 t into a3/4t
    a 1/2 t is what it is, a grocery hauler. To attempt to make it do more than designed is not advised.
    a well matched truck for load will give many miles and years of good service with no add on costs
  • YOU can’t increase your truck’s capacity. That shop can’t increase your truck’s capacity.
  • Even if it did, you still wouldn't be able to safely tow what your listing.
  • Legally you cannot increase your GVWR, that is set by the manufacturer. You could tow as is and no one would care.