Quote:
Originally Posted by MarkEHansen
There are a few things to keep in mind when you look at this question:
1. You should always assume the trailer is loaded to GVW. Then assume 10-15% of that is the tongue weight.
2. Look at the payload sticker on your driver's door post (the yellow sticker). It will give you the payload max for your vehicle. That payload needs to account for everything you put in the truck, including people, cargo, the WD hitch and the tongue weight of the trailer.
3. Look at the GCWR for the truck/trailer (provided by the towing guide for the truck) and make sure you're not exceeding that (GCWR is the combined gross weight of both the truck and trailer).
There are others, but these are the big hurdles. Make sure you're okay with these and then start looking for the other issues (like axle weight ratings, tire ratings, etc.)
Keep in mind that you don't just need to have enough truck to pull the trailer. You also need enough to stop the combined rig as well as enough truck to control the combined rig in the event of an emergency situation, like swerving to miss a road animal, tire blow out, etc.
It's good that you're asking. There are a lot of great folks on this forum that will help with these questions.
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Since when is the Tow Vehicle designed to stop the combined weight (CGVW) with no trailer brakes? On a 6%+ down grade at 70mph? No Way.