Towing Capacity 1/2 Ton Pickup

[tmeisen]

I tow a 4700 lb camper trailer with my Chevy 1500 with the 6.2l motor and max trailering package, which pulls this unit fairly easily. I am thinking of purchasing a 6000 lb trailer and wonder if I would notice much difference with the additional 1300 lbs. Trailer dimensions are roughly the same. Has anyone done something similar? Thanks.

 

[John&Andrea]

Welcome to the group. I would say first look at the tow capacity on you truck. I think keeping max weight at 80% of max will be good for you. Keep in mind your cargo as a part of the total. I towed a 6500# with a 1/2 ton years back and with cargo I was very close to max. Not sure I would do it today. Today the 1/2 tons are better equipped, stopping and stability it a huge part as well. Good luck.

 

[Rosy]

As mentioned above, your payload capacity will be the limiting factor. Check the capacity on the sticker inside the driver's door and compare that to the weight of you and all passengers, all gear in the cab and bed of the truck and the expected tongue weight of the trailer.

Remember that the dry tongue weight stated by the trailer manufacturer doesn't include battery, propane tanks or anything on the hitch or around the front of the trailer. Try to estimate the weight of the stuff you'll put in the trailer (most folks assume 1000 lbs as a starting point) and plan to get 10-15% of the gross (loaded) weight of the trailer on the tongue.

What year is your truck?

 

[tmeisen]

Welcome to the group. I would say first look at the tow capacity on you truck. I think keeping max weight at 80% of max will be good for you. Keep in mind your cargo as a part of the total. I towed a 6500# with a 1/2 ton years back and with cargo I was very close to max. Not sure I would do it today. Today the 1/2 tons are better equipped, stopping and stability it a huge part as well. Good luck.

Thank you.

 

[Ventana]

This article appeared in RV Travel recently. Good info.

RV engineer answers: Is maximum towing capacity just smoke and mirrors?

 

[Mrgunguy]

This article appeared in RV Travel recently. Good info.

RV engineer answers: Is maximum towing capacity just smoke and mirrors?

Good read! Makes me wonder if my Jeep TJ has enough capacity to tow my two bicycles, LOL!