How to Determine Vehicle Towing Capacity Using GVWR and GCWR

Question:

I have a 2016 silverado1500 in side door says 6800 gvwr..what weight rv can I tow?

asked by: James B

Expert Reply:

The door jamb sticker on a vehicle will tell you the most trailer weight it can tow by you doing one math calculation using two separate figures. You need the GVWR, gross vehicle weight rating, and also the GCWR, the gross combined weight rating (the maximum combined weight of the vehicle and trailer). If you subtract the GVWR from the GCWR you end up with the maximum trailer weight.

If the sticker does not provide a GCWR to allow you to do the calculation then you can refer to the owner's manual or to the auto maker's towing guide. The towing capacity for a truck like your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a function of several features. These include engine displacement of course, but also the drivetrain (2WD or 4WD), the axle ratio and whether or not it has the Max Trailering Package. The range is 5600-lbs to 9400-lbs.

If you cannot find the two figures on your door jamb sticker you can simply inquire at a dealership using the truck VIN.

expert reply by: Adam R