07-05-2008, 11:04 AM
Anytime you start talking about truck towing and hauling capacities keep in mind that the manufacturers are trying to post the best score possible for their trucks. A very specific model with an exact combination of engine, transmission, axle ratio, cab configuration and wheel base are necessary to haul the maximum load. Hence, the words "properly-equipped" in all the manufacturer's towing footnotes.
In addition, all pickups and SUVs have two trailer towing ratings: "weight-carrying" and "weight-distribution." They are not interchangeable terms.
Weight-carrying means the maximum amount the pickup can tow without the use of a "weight-distribution" hitch. In layman's terms, the amount the truck can tow when the trailer is hooked to a standard shank-and-ball. (That's how your typical boat trailer would be towed.) Most F-Series pickups are limited to less than 6,000 pounds towing capacity in weight-carrying mode.
Weight-distribution means the trailer must be setup with a weight-distribution-type hitch using the spring-bars and chains to distribute the load evenly. (Think big travel trailer setups.)
Here's the catch: Boat trailers with hydraulic surge-type brakes can't be towed using a weight-distribution hitch because the hitch interferes with or disables the operation of the trailer brakes.
Load distribution is also an important factor. The
weight of a trailer should be 10- to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight. This requirement means a conventional trailer will be limited by weight capacities to about 8,000 pounds less than what can be towed on a Fifth wheel trailer set up. Boat trailers typically only have 6 to 8 percent torque weight.
So before you hook and go, read the towing section in your truck's owner's manual. Failing to do so can put you at great liability risk in the event of a towing-related accident.
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In addition, all pickups and SUVs have two trailer towing ratings: "weight-carrying" and "weight-distribution." They are not interchangeable terms.
Weight-carrying means the maximum amount the pickup can tow without the use of a "weight-distribution" hitch. In layman's terms, the amount the truck can tow when the trailer is hooked to a standard shank-and-ball. (That's how your typical boat trailer would be towed.) Most F-Series pickups are limited to less than 6,000 pounds towing capacity in weight-carrying mode.
Weight-distribution means the trailer must be setup with a weight-distribution-type hitch using the spring-bars and chains to distribute the load evenly. (Think big travel trailer setups.)
Here's the catch: Boat trailers with hydraulic surge-type brakes can't be towed using a weight-distribution hitch because the hitch interferes with or disables the operation of the trailer brakes.
Load distribution is also an important factor. The
weight of a trailer should be 10- to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight. This requirement means a conventional trailer will be limited by weight capacities to about 8,000 pounds less than what can be towed on a Fifth wheel trailer set up. Boat trailers typically only have 6 to 8 percent torque weight.So before you hook and go, read the towing section in your truck's owner's manual. Failing to do so can put you at great liability risk in the event of a towing-related accident.
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