Why Does a Factory Class V Hitch on a GMC Sierra have Lower Capacities than Aftermarket Hitches

Published 10/24/2014

Question:

I have a 2006 GMC Sierra 2500hd 6.5foot bed. The factory installed hitch is rated as follows:V-5 weight carrying max trailer weight 7500lbs tongue 1000lbs weight distributing max trailer weight 12000lbs tongue 1500lbs If it is a class v, why is the weight lower than a typical class v?

asked by: Justin

Expert Reply:

Most aftermarket Class V hitches will have higher ratings than factory hitches. Most aftermarket hitches have higher ratings than the vehicles they are designed for. Since your hitch is factory GMC probably just decided to put the rating that the vehicle has instead of just the hitch so as not to confuse people.

Going with a hitch with a higher rating than what the vehicle is rated for would not give you additional capacity. You are only as strong as your weakest component.

With that being said, you still have pretty high capacities. Especially if you use a weight distribution system.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well.

I also attached an FAQ article on weight distribution for you to check out as well as an FAQ on hitch classifications.

expert reply by: Jameson C