Fifth Wheel Towing Capacity for 2008 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 4x4 Duramax

Question:

I am wondering what the fifth wheel tow capacity is for my truck. It is a 2008 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 4x4 with a 6.6l Duramax diesel. I am looking to upgrade my camper to a fifth wheel. The one I am looking at has a dry weight of 12,100 pounds. Any help is greatly appreciated.

asked by: Brian W

Expert Reply:

The best place to confirm a vehicle's towing capacity is in the owner's manual, since this should reflect the specific complement of equipment installed at the factory, including the rear differential which is just one of the components that affects towing capacity. 4WD trucks with the 4.10 axle ratio top out at just over 12K trailer weight. Cab style and bed length affect it too.

You can also contact your local dealership with the truck's VIN and they can look up its equipment and towing capacity.

The other way is to check the door jamb plate on the driver's door. Find the GCWR (gross combined weight rating). This is the most the truck plus trailer can weigh together. From this figure subtract the GVW (gross vehicle weight) which is the most the truck itself can weigh. The difference is the towing capacity.

If you have a 6-1/2-foot bed you will need a slider type hitch in order to have enough turning clearance, one like # C16521 from Curt which is rated for 16K. If you have an 8-foot bed you can used a fixed hitch like 16K Curt model # C16120.

expert reply by: Adam R