Is Trailer Towing Capacity Based on the Gross Combined Weight Rating aka GCWR?

Question:

So if you use the curb weight of the truck GVW, which represents the curb weight of the vehicle, plus gasoline, cargo and passengers.inch do you also use the curb weight of the trailer.inch My F-250 has a 7,000Lbs. Curb weight and a GCWR of 19,200Lbs. Question 1 Can I pull a 14,000Lbs GVWR trailer regardless of what the curb weight of the trailer is as long as I dont exceed the truck axel, trailer axels, tongue weight rating for my setup. To me that looks like 21,000lbs. or 2 Can I only pull a 14,000Lbs. GVWR trailer loaded with a curb weight of 12,200 as long as I dont exceed the truck axel, trailer axel, tongue weight rating for my setup. Looks to me like 19,200Lbs. actual combination vehicle weight CVW. or 3 Is my truck with a GVWR of 10,000Lbs. only capable of pulling a trailer with a GVWR of 9,200Lbs. Will state patrol only look at the GVWR sticker or are they concerned with the CVW only. Thanks for you help and time.

asked by: Jerry H

Expert Reply:

With your GCWR of 19,200 lbs, you will subtract your GVWR of your truck not the curb weight to determine your maximum towing capacity. The loaded weight of your TRAILER should not exceed that maximum towing capacity.

Regarding the trailer, you will need to be sure the axles, suspension, wheels, tires, coupler and all other components are rated for the trailer load. The tongue weight rating of your trailer should be between 10 and 15% of the total gross weight for a travel trailer or under 25% for a 5th wheel trailer.

The state patrol will want to make sure you and the other drivers are safe, so you will need to be within the GCWR of your truck and trailer and have the proper equipment for your capacities.

expert reply by: Jason S