Gooseneck vs. 5th Wheel Towing Capacity for 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Diesel 4x4

Question:

Hi, My Silverado 2500HD Diesel 4x4 lists Max Towing load values for 1 conventional towing and 2 5th Wheel towing. Ive always inferred that the gooseneck max load values are just the same thing as the 5th wheel max values,... But my question here is: Are the Weight Distribution System max load values also the same thing as the 5th Wheel max load values... And is this fairly well accepted to where if I am stopped and checked while pulling a trailer load that is within the 5th Wheel max limits and my weight distribution system is properly set up to where both pickup axles are within their listed gross weight limits, then should I be legally OK from a max load standpoint? Otherwise, I will seek to significantly invest in a gooseneck boat trailer fairly expensive for pulling my heavy boat in the Florida Keys where you do get stopped and checked ... Because like many, I really prefer to not have a dually pick-up towing solution, as it would also have to double as my daily driver. Thanks.

asked by: Gary M

Expert Reply:

Sometimes a truck's towing capacity for gooseneck trailers may differ from those for 5th wheels. This is usually a function of the specific hitches installed rather than an actual difference in towing capability for the two types of trailers.

Trailer weight capacity for bumper pull towing with a hitch receiver that is rated for use with weight distribution will not necessarily be the same as the gooseneck and 5th wheel ratings due to hitch differences. A Class V receiver hitch like # C15302 from Curt carries a 2400-lb tongue weight (TW) rating and a 16K trailer weight rating. Rated trailer weight capacity increase with use of weight distribution to 17K-lbs.

The surest way to determine your truck's towing capacity is to check the door jamb sticker. Find the GCWR (gross combined weight rating) which is the most the truck and any trailer together can weigh. Then from that subtract the trucks actual weight. The difference is the vehicle's absolute maximum towing capacity regardless of the type of trailer towed.

Keep in mind that a particular gooseneck, 5th wheel or receiver hitch may be rated lower or higher than the vehicle. In such cases always the lower value determines overall capacity.

expert reply by: Adam R