How to Determine Towing Capacities of a Vehicle with and without Weight Distribution
Question:
I am buying a new 2015 gmc sierra 1500 with a towing capacity of 9200 pounds and a hitch tongue weight capacity of 500 pounds What is the maximum trailer weight that i can tow with existing hitch and with a new increased capacity hitch? Same question with weight distribution? What impact regarding truck squatinch and how to correct it.
asked by: Gene B
Expert Reply:
The limiting factor of a towing setup is always the weakest component. What you need to do is find out the overall towing capacities of the vehicle with a weight distribution system as well and you will know all of the capacities for the truck. Typically in the towing section of the manual there will be a weight carrying capacity as well as a weight distribution capacity listed right next to it. If the truck can only safely tow a certain amount you can not increase this capacity just by going with a higher rated hitch.
A WD system will help greatly with squat from towing a heavy trailer. For more information on WD systems check out the link I attached.
