What Does GVWR Mean for a Truck

Updated 06/24/2015 | Published 06/23/2015

Question:

I have a 1997 Dodge Ram 2500 short bed with Quad Cab. I am looking at a class V hitch. What is the max weight I can pull with my truck? I know the hitch will have a higher towing capacity but what can my truck safely pull? I do not understand the ratings.. GVWR1 8800 lbs Maximum Trailer Weight Rating2 8400 lbs Maximum GCWR3 14000 lbs Can I pull a boat that weighs 8500 lbs and the trailer weighs 2500-3500 lbs. Thanks

asked by: Scott W

Expert Reply:

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or gross vehicle mass (GVM) is the maximum operating weight/mass of a vehicle as specified by the manufacturer including the vehicle's chassis, body, engine, engine fluids, fuel, accessories, driver, passengers and cargo but excluding that of any trailers.

Maximum trailer weight rating is the heaviest trailer you can tow. So for your truck the heaviest trailer you can tow would be 8,400 lbs regardless of what hitch you use. So you would not be able to tow your trailer that weighs over 8,500 lbs.

expert reply by: Jameson C