How to Determine Maximum Towing Capacity for 3/4 Ton Truck
Published 11/07/2014
Question:
What is the maximum towing capacity to pull a fifth wheel for a 3/4 truck and also is the Chevy Duramax diesel reliable for long trips. Me and my wife wanted to drive to Alaska someday. I want your honest opinion.
asked by: David G
Expert Reply:
I've got a quick and dirty way you can determine the capacity of your truck.
It's not always evident what a truck's max capacity is, even by reading the owner's manual, but if you look at the ratings sticker on the driver's side door jamb, you can get an accurate statement of the truck's towing abilities. On the sticker, look for the Gross Combined Weight Rating, GWCR which is the maximum amount the truck plus the fully loaded trailer can weigh. From that, subtract the GVW, which represents the curb weight of the vehicle, plus gasoline, cargo and passengers. The result you get will be the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can handle.
The Reese Select Plus 5th wheel hitch you mentioned, part # RP300810 is an excellent choice for fifth wheels with a GVWR under 20,000 lbs. It's one piece wrap around jaw prevents the king pin from rattling around in the jaws like a slide bar or a dual jaw set-up can. This provides a smoother, more quiet ride.
When it comes to efficiency, available torque and longevity, you can't go wrong with a Diesel. If I had to pull a fifth wheel long distances, I'd choose a Diesel over a gas engine every time.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Gen-Y Torsion Pintle Hook Mounting Plate for 2-1/2" Hitches - 16 Hole - 16,000 lbs
- Search Results: tps
- Search Results: lock
- Video: Blaylock EZ Lock Trailer Coupler Lock for Lunette Ring Couplers Review
- Q&A: Can the Gen-Y Torsion Pintle Hook Mounting Plate for 2" Hitches Be Mounted In the Rise Position?
- Shop: Gen-Y Torsion Pintle Hook Mounting Plate for 2" Hitches - 14 Hole - 16,000 lbs
- Shop: Blaylock EZ Lock Trailer Coupler Lock for Lunette Ring Couplers - Aluminum
- Shop: TST TPMS for Trailers and Cars - Color Display - Signal Booster - 8 Cap Sensors
- Shop: TST TPMS for RVs - Color Display - Signal Booster - 4 Tire Sensors
- Shop: B&W Pintle Hook Mounting Plate for 2" Hitches - 13" Shank - 14 Hole - 16,000 lbs
- Shop: Curt Pintle Hook - Bolt On - 20,000 lbs
- Video: Review of Gen-Y Hitch Pintle Hitch - Torsion Pintle Hook Mounting Plate 2-1/2 Inch Hitch - GY38NR
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Article: The 5 Best Trailer Drop Hitches You Can Buy
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
on 5th Wheel Hitch
