I to had your experience after purchasing a new 1500 that was rated max tow for the class . My first 2 TV ‘s were 3500/350 . But I listened to manufacturers/ sales people stating Oh the 1/2 tons can do what you need. Bought 2- 2016’s both new , lossed around 6k . Now I’m back to a 3500 & a deisel . This was after 2 wd hitches, air bags and several trips to the scales. It’s all physics . We very much enjoy towing now , and maybe the lesson was expensive but I know for sure now. Reminds me of the tv show house “everybody lies”
Best of luck