Does Weight Capacity of Tow Dolly Refer to Curb Weight or Axle Weight

Updated 05/06/2021 | Published 05/05/2021

Question:

LOOKS LIKE I CAN USE A TOW DOLLY WITH MY 2018 F150 4x4. I GOT CURB WEIGHT FROM DEALER AT 4,734 POUNDS. DO THE 4800 POUND DOLLY WORK? OR MAYBE I CAN USE TH E4300 POUND? NOT SURE IF GOES BY CURB WEIGHT or WEIGHT ON THE FRONT END?

asked by: JOHN S

Expert Reply:

Ford makes no mention of dolly towing in the 2018 Ford F-150 owner's manual, so I'd recommend checking with your dealer for the proper procedure.The # RM-2050-1 Roadmaster tow dolly you'd looked at has a 4250 lb capacity, so your truck would be too heavy for it.

I'd go with the Demco Kar Kaddy SS, part # DM9713045. The Kar Kaddy SS uses surge operated disc brakes for reliable and predictable braking that won't require a brake controller. The dolly has a higher capacity at 4800 lbs, which would allow for more of a safety margin, and the tow dolly is foldable, so it takes up less space at the campsite and when in storage.

I've linked to a demonstration video for the Demco Kar Kaddy.

expert reply by: Mike L