Important Towing Terms to Know Before Buying a Truck or SUV

It's universally known that pickup trucks and SUVs have enough power to transport and haul bulky and heavy cargo. With proper equipment, some can pull trailers and other bulky toys like boats and ATVs. If you intend to make the most of these capabilities, it is critical to check the owner's manual for towing terms and guidelines.

Briggs Dodge RAM Fiat has you covered no matter your towing needs. Towing jargon is plentiful, and many people are unaware of its meaning. That is why experts from our team will explain some common terms, such as towing capacity, payload capacity, and more.

Here are some terms you should know before towing a trailer:

Definitions of Common Towing Terms

Max Towing Capacity

A vehicle's towing capacity determines how much weight it can safely tow. The number depends on the vehicle's weight, configuration, load distribution, and control. You must know how much your truck can tow to keep it safe and in good working condition.

Manufacturers publish vehicle towing capacities, but these calculations assume that a vehicle towing the trailer carries only the driver. Therefore, you must consider your passengers when towing big toys such as RVs and boats.

Payload Capacity

Your vehicle's maximum load capacity is the maximum amount of weight it can carry inside its cabin and in its truck bed or cargo. In other words, this refers to the maximum weight that the cabin and bed of a truck can carry.

Tongue Weight

It is the force exerted by a trailer on a hitch. A trailer's tongue weight varies depending on the distribution of its load. Conventional trailer tongue weights should be between 10% and 15% of the overall trailer weight. This weight should be about 15% for fifth wheels and gooseneck trailers.

You must have the right tongue weight. A light tongue weight will cause your trailer to sway. Meanwhile, too much tongue weight will negatively impact your vehicle's towing capacity.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

Vehicles with GVWRs indicate how much weight they can carry and remain operable. As part of this calculation, all the vehicle's fluids, cargo, passengers, and tongue weights are considered. GVWR is calculated without including trailer weight.

Vehicle ID plates often have the GVWR information to indicate the license type. Driving restrictions on certain roads and bridges are based on your vehicle's GVWR.

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

To calculate the GCWR, you must add the weight of the vehicle, its passengers, the trailer, and the cargo. To protect your vehicle's drivetrain, staying within the recommended weight range when towing is an excellent idea.

Several factors, including the vehicle's engine, transmission, and radiator, determine the GCWR. For a vehicle to carry its maximum gross combined weight, it must meet the axle, tire, and chassis strength limits.

Curb Weight

In most cases, the vehicle's manual will indicate the curb weight. The last step in manufacturing is to weigh the vehicle with standard equipment, oil, coolant, and gas when it leaves the plant.

Tow Bar

A tow bar connects two vehicles for towing. In contrast to a hitch used to tow another vehicle with a trailer, this is used for towing another vehicle.

Hitch Types

Hitches connect vehicles and trailers. Generally, there are various categories based on their use and weight.

There are several types of hitches:

• Front-Mount Hitch: The front-mount hitch is an accessory that attaches to the front of a vehicle and is useful for a wide range of purposes. It perfectly fits cargo carriers, bike racks, and snowplows.
• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: This hitch makes towing heavy loads easier. The mount attaches to the truck bed's reinforced section for better stability.
• Gooseneck: Commercial and agricultural towing often uses this type. A gooseneck is mounted on a truck and has a tighter turning radius.
• Bolt-on Trailer Hitch: Similarly to permanent under-car hitches, this one attaches to a vehicle's frame and can accommodate light to moderate loads.
• Rear Receiver Hitch: Cars, trucks, and SUVs often have rear receiver hitches. These hitches attach directly to the vehicle's frame and have a receiver opening of 1.25 inches or 2 inches.
• Weight Distribution Hitch: When you use this hitch, your trailer's weight will be evenly distributed between your vehicle's axles. When towing heavy trailers, you should combine a rear receiver hitch with this. It also prevents the tow vehicle from sagging at the back, which improves braking and steering.
• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: A trailer hitch like this can support large, heavy trailers, such as campers and livestock trailers. It is directly attached to the back axle of a pickup truck, it adds stability and security to the vehicle.

Find a Towing-Capable Vehicle at Briggs Dodge RAM Fiat

Knowing these towing terms will help you pick the right vehicle for towing and hauling tasks. At Briggs Dodge RAM Fiat in Topeka, KS, you can find the right RAM truck or Dodge SUV for your lifestyle. For more information about the towing capacity of each vehicle, please visit our dealership and talk to one of our friendly staff members.