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Trailer Life Towing Guide 2009 PDF

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
310 views49 pages

Trailer Life Towing Guide 2009 PDF

Uploaded by

anon_123476817
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  • Choose Wisely
  • Towing 2009
  • How to Use This Guide
  • 2009 Tow Ratings
  • Hitching Up
  • A Hitch for All Reasons
  • Anatomy of a Towing Package
  • Towing Tips
  • Rules of the Road and Towing Laws

20 0 9 GUIDE TO

TOWING

A Supplement to

OFFICIAL TRAILER TOW RATINGS


NEW FOR 2009 TOW-VEHICLE SELECTION ANATOMY OF A TOW PACKAGE HITCHING UP TIPS FOR TOWING BRAKE CONTROLLERS

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ALL-NEW 09 F-150 MAN, TRAILERS ARE LIKE

WILD ANIMALS.
Theyre always trying to get away from you.
Until now. Trailer sway control, standard.

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FIND OUT MORE AT FORDVEHICLES.COM

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09

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U I D E

EDITORIAL
PUBLISHER BOB LIVINGSTON EDITOR KRISTOPHER BUNKER MANAGING EDITOR MARLEEN CANNIFF

CREATIVE
ART DIRECTOR MIRANTE ALMAZAN

EDITORIAL/BUSINESS OFFICE
2575 VISTA DEL MAR DRIVE, VENTURA, CA 93001 TEL (805) 667-4100 FAX (805) 667-4484

Choose Wisely
Tow-vehicle selection includes careful consideration of weights and measures

ADVERTISING
Ventura, California VP/NATIONAL SALES TERRY THOMPSON BUSINESS MANAGER DENIELLE STERNBURG P.O. BOX 8510, VENTURA, CA 93002 TEL (805) 667-4100 FAX (805) 667-4379 Elkhart, Indiana MIDWEST SALES DIRECTOR CHUCK LASLEY NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES TACY HENDERSHOT NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES LOU CICIRELLI 2300 MIDDLEBURY STREET, ELKHART, IN 46516 TEL (574) 295-7820 FAX (574) 522-0418 Seattle, Washington NATIONAL SALES SCOTT OAKES, JOHN MARCIANO 1818 WESTLAKE AVENUE N, #420 SEATTLE, WA 98109 TEL (206) 283-9545 FAX (206) 283-9571 Detroit, Michigan CROMPTON HOLDINGS SCOTT CROMPTON 2031 FERNWAY DRIVE MONTGOMERY, AL 36111 TEL (334) 613-2040 FAX (334) 356-7740 TRAILER LIFE IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF AFFINITY GROUP INC. COPYRIGHT 2009 BY AFFINITY GROUP INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. TRAILER LIFE (USPS #454-970) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY TL ENTERPRISES INC. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE, U.S. AND POSSESSIONS: 1 YEAR, $15.97; 2 YEARS, $27.97. ALL OTHER COUNTRIES, ADD $12 PER YEAR. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT

10

Towing 2009
With fuel economy taking center stage for manufacturers, Ford introduces refined F-150s

15 16 31 36

How to Use This Guide 2009 Tow Ratings Hitching Up


Choosing the correct equipment for towing

A Hitch for All Reasons


Hensley offers a variety of unique hitches for travel trailers and fifth-wheels

37 40 44

Trailer-Brake Control
Latest technology improves safety and reliability

Anatomy of a Towing Package Towing Tips


Logging time behind the wheel before heading out helps make the towing process smoother

46

Rules of the Road and Towing Laws

2009 Guide to Towing Sponsors


Ford Motor Company (800) 392-3673 www.ford.com Hensley Manufacturing Inc. (800) 410-6580 www.hensleymfg.com
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Choose Wisely
Paying close attention to the tow ratings is necessary to make appropriate model and option choices
BY DUNCAN ON EAL

ith so many choices available in tow vehicles, selecting the one that works best for your application may seem like a daunting task. There are many variables to consider, including budget, brand and towing capacity, and its important to examine them all carefully before making a purchase. Going through the effort to better understand each variable and to account for all of them up front will lead to a more pleasant trailering experience later.

Weight Matters
The tow-ratings guide in this section lists the maximum tow ratings for vehicles with specific

equipment, but many buyers interpret the maximum vehicles tow ratings with far too much optimism. Always check the manufacturers figures before making a purchase. The following is an explanation of the terms you need to know which, when combined with readings from a public scale and your own calculator, should help you determine the correct tow rating for the tow vehicle you plan to buy. Gross Combination Weight Rating (gcwr): The total allowable weight of the truck, the trailer, the cargo in each, fluids and occupants. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (gvwr): The total allowable weight for the vehicle, including
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Choosing the proper axle ratio is vital to performance and fuel economy. The axle ratio indicates the proportion between the pinion-shaft and ring-gear revolutions.

fluids, options, hitch, cargo and trailer-hitch weight. The trailers gvwr is the total allowable weight of the trailer, fluids, occupants, options and cargo. Gross Axle Weight Rating (gawr): The total allowable weight on any given individual axle. This includes the weight of the tires, wheels, brakes and the axle itself. Maximum Tow Rating: The manufacturers weight limit for towed loads. For conventional trailers, this normally includes a hitch-weight limit as well; for fifth-wheels, the pin weight is applied to the trucks gvwr and its rear-axle gawr.

Trailer and Tow Rig Matchup


The gvwr and gawr for all motor vehicles are listed on the data plate, typically affixed to the drivers door frame, fuel door, glove box, end of the dashboard or other easy-to-access location. Brochures and window stickers may be inaccurate. All trailers should have a weight sticker normally found in an interior cabinet that lists the trailers Unloaded Vehicle Weight (uvw), gvwr, weight added by freshwater and LP-gas and the resulting cargo carrying capacity. In many cases, optional equipment such as air-conditioning units, generators and the fuel they run on sneaks onboard after weighing, and may not be reflected on the sticker. And dont forget the fuel-fill tanks that some SURVs offer for campsite refueling of motorcycles and ATVs. Recently enacted Recreational Vehicle Industry
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Association (RVIA) weight label requirements are more inclusive of dealer-added options and make it easier for buyers to have access to more accurate weight figures. The gvwr figures are neither guidelines nor estimates; they are limits, and there are numerous valid reasons the manufacturer arrived at the figures given. If you think these figures are close enough or have a fudge-factor percentage built in, think again. Your warranty coverage, and your safety, may be at risk. The only sure-fire way to find out what your trailer weighs is to load it as usual for a trip, right down to the towels and trinkets, and weigh it at a public scale. Without forming a long queue of commercial trucks waiting their turns at the scale, get the hitch weight, axle weight and total weight. Assuming that the axle weight is below the gawr, the total is below the gvwr and the hitch weight is below the maximum given for your tow vehicle, you can then move on to towvehicle selection. For a new trailer, consult the weight sticker on the unit of your choice on a dealers lot and refer to the uvw and cargo carrying capacity (ccc). Estimate how much cargo you will add, being mindful of the gvwr, and use that number while selecting a tow vehicle. To a lesser extent, tow-vehicle weight is variable as well. Brochures and tow guides frequently list how much a truck weighs, but this number generally applies to the most basic model in that

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configuration, without any options. In some cases, distinctions are made by engine, transmission, drive system (2WD or 4WD/AWD) and, in other cases, by cab or bed styles. If the dealer does not have a vehicle equipped as you want that is available to weigh, or cannot provide option weights, you can form rough estimates but exact figures are the only way to be certain. Bigger engines add weight, diesels more so because they come with additional accessories (700 pounds more than the standard gas engine is common). Add up to 175 pounds for an optional transmission, about 400 pounds for 4WD and a bit less than 300 pounds for longer beds. Then add other options like luxury-trim levels, as all those electric motors add up. The towing package and hitch could add another 100 pounds, and larger wheels and tires can also have an effect. Following is how to calculate the realistic towing capacity of the vehicle that interests you. For example, consider a fictional one-ton longbed, diesel, extended-cab, 2WD, single-rearwheel pickup set up for towing. Well arbitrarily assign it a gvwr of 9,900 pounds, a front gawr of

5,000 pounds, a rear gawr of 6,824 pounds, a gcwr of 23,000 pounds and a quoted maximum tow rating of 17,000 pounds. As is often the case in single-rear-wheel trucks, the rear axles gawr on this truck is derived from each tires maximum load of 3,412 pounds. Pickups such as this normally start at more than 6,000 pounds, and with a diesel, automatic and nice trim, figure that with a full tank of fuel and hitch, this unit weighs 7,000 pounds. If we add two standard-size people (154 pounds each), a few tools and some cargo, it weighs 7,500 pounds. That is split to 4,000 pounds on the front axle, and 3,500 pounds on the rear axle. The first thing you should have noticed is that the maximum tow rating cannot apply with the truck fully loaded because gcwr (23,000) minus gvwr (9,900) leaves 13,100 pounds about two tons less than quoted towing ability. After adding options and people to the example truck, and subtracting that value (7,500) from gcwr (23,000), the effective working tow rating of the truck becomes 15,500 pounds, about 1,500 pounds less than the trucks quoted maximum towing rating.

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However, you have yet to check all the numbers and verify that a 15,500-pound trailer will work. If that trailer is a fifth-wheel and has 20 percent of its weight on the pin, that adds 3,100 pounds to the back of the truck. This would make the truck overweight its 7,500-pound ready-to-roll weight plus the 3,100 pounds on the pin equals 10,600 pounds 700 pounds more than the trucks gvwr, and just 224 pounds shy of the rear-axle limit of 6,824 pounds. SUVs and other non-pickup tow rigs cannot escape scrutiny. The vehicles loaded weight, with the anticipated load of passengers aboard, must be subtracted from the gcwr to determine the realistic tow rating.

Other Factors to Consider


The tow-ratings chart lists vehicle-towing maximums segregated by engine, cab style, drive and single- or dual-rear wheels as appropriate. In general, assume the maximum tow rating always requires a towing package and special towing equipment (see Anatomy of a Towing Package on page 40) and the highest numerical axle ratio offered, and as the example shows, maximums can be confusing. You can do your own estimates by starting with the information given and keeping the following generalizations in mind. Transmission: For the majority of vehicles, automatic transmissions offer the higher tow ratings when they vary by transmission. On heavyduty (HD) models, the difference may be 1,000 pounds or less, and on lighter-duty vehicles, a manual tranny might rate a 2,000-pound lower tow rating. Exceptions include high-output engines that are available only with manual gearboxes, vehicles where the manual transmission weighs more than the automatic and transmissions in vehicles designed for high performance and not towing. Axle Ratio: Lower gearing (the numerically higher ratios, e.g. 4.10:1, 4.56:1, as opposed to 3.55:1, 3.73:1), typically produces greater tow ratings because of greater torque multiplication. There is a wide variance in the axle ratios effect on the tow rating, with some diesel-powered pickups varying only a few hundred pounds. On others, changing from a 3.73:1 to a 4.30:1 sometimes increases the tow rating by 3,500 pounds. In the past, some ratings have increased by a factor greater than three (from 2,000 to 7,100 pounds) simply by using a different axle ratio. Lower gearing will also make your vehicle accelerate quicker up to 50-55 mph. In general, a onestep drop in axle ratio (4.10:1 to 3.73:1) on an HD pickup will drop tow rating and gcwr by a ton. Lower gearing has an adverse effect on fuel
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economy, but its usually not proportional to the gain in towing ability. Under the best circumstances, the difference between the highest and lowest gear ratios offered (say, 3.42:1 and 4.10:1) results in a 1.5-mpg decrease in nontowing, steady state-highway cruising. In most conditions that change is less than 1 mpg, and if you tow a relatively heavy trailer a lot, theres no question that the lowest gearing is best. Drive System: Vehicles that drive only two wheels, be they front or rear, generally have higher tow ratings (all other things being equal). Even though modern 4WD and AWD systems are quite efficient, a small amount of parasitic loss uses up energy. More importantly, 4WD systems add weight easily up to 400 pounds on some HD pickups and that weight frequently comes off the tow rating. Unless the gcwr and gvwr are higher, a 4WD version will probably tow a few hundred pounds less than its 2WD counterpart. Towing Package: If you can order a towing package, do so. Not only is it usually required to get the top tow rating, but the contents rarely can be duplicated for the original cost and it will add to resale value. Frequently you can see the hitch or tow plug, but there are often changes to the wiring system (including up-rated wire and fuses), alternator, battery, cooling system, power steering and lubricants. Bed Length/Style: If theres a difference, a longbed truck may rate slightly lower in tow capacity perhaps 150-250 pounds because the longer bed adds weight. On other cases there is no change because the longer wheelbase is beneficial. Note that the more styled beds marketed under a variety of names typically are heavier than conventional slab-sided beds, and that cab-and-chassis figures do not reflect any bed unless otherwise noted. A steel bed for a medium-duty cab-and-chassis could quickly eat up an entire ton of its gcwr.

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Single or Dual Rear Wheels: Most people assume that a dually pickup will have a higher tow rating than a single-rear wheel unit, but this is not always so. In many cases the gcwr is limited by factors other than the number of rear wheels and does not change, and in those cases the weight of the wider axle, bigger brakes and two more tires and wheels is subtracted from the gcwr. The dually no doubt provides a more stable towing platform for the heavier trailers, although not always with the highest tow rating. A dualie will have a higher gvwr because the dual-wheel rear axle might have a 10,000-pound gawr, for example, compared to the single-rear-wheel trucks 6,824pound gawr. Gawr is not always an exact calculation of the tire capacity times the number of tires. A dualie-equipped truck will be better for hauling a heavy slide-in truck camper because of the weight concentrated on the rear axle as compared to the average trailers hitch weight. Tires: Wheel sizes continue to grow commensurate with their popularity, with some tow vehicles offering 20-inch-diameter wheels as factory options. However, using a larger wheel and lowerprofile tire means a smaller air cushion and lower

tire sidewall, to the extent that tow ratings generally drop whenever the wheel size increases. Be sure to read the fine print on the packaging carefully.

Practical Application
Before purchasing any vehicle for towing, ensure that the equipment required is available for your vehicle. You may find that the new-kid-onthe-block is a very capable tow vehicle, but no one makes a fifth-wheel hitch for it. Also beware of hitch-ball and receiver ratings, as some trucks are rated for heavier loads than any easily found hardware can handle, and therefore may require special-order parts. Also keep in mind that the powertrains used in some vehicles may not be available in each of the 50 states or Canada. Before making a purchase of a new vehicle, we also suggest that you acquire the manufacturers comprehensive towing guide, available online or at dealerships. Be sure to read the fine print in the guide because in many cases the maximum rating may apply only to one particular version and be for a fifth-wheel trailer; many larger pickups may have their actual tow rating limited by the hitch and hardware. q

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Towing
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2009
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New models, styling and drivetrains improve towing prowess, comfort and fuel economy
BY

CHRIS H EMER
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U I D E Three, then touch on any new or interesting additions from foreign offerings. Since many features are offered through several lines, were going to group like vehicles together to avoid repeating the same info.

ith the fluctuation of fuel prices, you can probably guess the common theme among the crop of 2009 tow vehicles: enhanced fuel economy. While its true that the Big Three can take years to introduce entirely new vehicles, they have demonstrated their ability to make adjustments to current products in just months to meet market demands. In this case, were seeing everything from taller rearaxle ratios and new transmissions to aerodynamic improvements and even more hybrid models. But unlike Detroits mad rush to introduce fuelsipping econo-cars during the 1970s, these revised tow vehicles dont sacrifice huge chunks of performance in exchange for their fuel-efficient ways. Engineers realize that heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and SUVs still must have adequate tow ratings. After all, thats one of the main reasons we buy them. When shopping for a new tow vehicle, however, keep in mind that tow ratings can vary significantly on two identically equipped models with different rear-axle-ratio ratings (depending on whether the buyers priority is fuel economy or maximum towing capability). So, be sure to verify the rear-axle ratio before signing on the dotted line. Since we dont have room to detail whats new with all makes and models, were going to focus primarily on popular offerings from the Big

Ford Motor Company


A redesign of the popular F-150 pickup helps set it apart from the rest of the full-size truck market. Perhaps the most noteworthy highlight is the fully integrated brake control with Trailer Sway Control (TSC) a first for the F-150 which synchronizes vehicle and trailer brakes for seamless braking (even with the heaviest loads) to provide added driving control and confidence. This high-tech braking system utilizes a yaw sensor to determine if the vehicle is swaying, and then takes the appropriate countermeasures. These may include applying the brakes to one or more wheels, and/or reducing engine power to bring the vehicle back under control. The popular Ford Explorer and Sport Trac both receive standard TSC as well. An available Reverse Camera System utilizes a tailgate-mounted camera to produce a visual display in the interior rearview mirror. In addition, when paired with the available advanced VoiceActivated Navigation System, the visual is displayed on the Navigation Systems screen. The 4.6- and 5.4-liter V-8 Triton engines fea-

Ford F-450 Super Duty

Ford F-150

Chevrolet Avalanche

Chevrolet Silverado

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ture improved horsepower, and a new six-speed automatic transmission makes its debut in 09. The Flex Fuel-capable 5.4-liter V-8 helps improve fuel economy. Manual telescoping tow mirrors are available on select models to help with trailer-towing visibility. Heat, turn-signal features and puddle lamps are among the features available with these mirrors. Three cab styles, four box options and seven trim levels provide potential F-150 buyers with up to 35 different configurations. And if thats not enough, theres the new Platinum Series F150, the full-boat luxury model that serves as a substitute for the discontinued Lincoln Mark LT. For families who need the room of an SUV but want something a little more hip and economical, Ford offers the new Flex. Looking like a modern interpretation of a 1950s era Woody (sans the wood), the Flex is available in 2WD or AWD, and its 3.5-liter V-6 engine and six-speed transmission make it capable of towing up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. Up to seven passengers can soak up the sun at the same time thanks to the optional Vista roof.

Chrysler Corporation
The biggest news from Dodge is the all-new Ram 1500. In addition to aggressive new looks and power improvements to the available 5.7-liter

Hemi (390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque), the Ram is now available in a shortbed Crew Cab configuration, which can be outfitted with an optional RamBox cargo-management system. RamBox provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into the cargo-box sides. A new chassis features a coil-spring, multi-link rear suspension for improved ride and handling. For the heavy-duty trucks, an automatic transmission is standard on all Hemi-powered 2500 Series models (a manual transmission is no longer available), and the venerable 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine is now standard on 3500 Series models, as is a limited slip rear axle. Larger brakes front and rear with twin-piston calibers are other noteworthy additions. Hybrid technology finally rolls out on the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango, with a claimed fuel economy savings of 40 percent city, 25 percent highway with Hemi power, no less. If youre looking for something a little more modest, consider Dodges all-new crossover, the Journey. Offered in three trim levels, the Journey can seat up to seven, and can be had in both 2WD and AWD versions. With the available 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 engine and sixspeed automatic transmission, the Journey can tow 3,500 pounds with the optional towing package.

Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Ford Flex

Dodge Ram 1500

Dodge Durango

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Kia Borrego

Honda Pilot

General Motors
The Chevy Avalanche now comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and a 3.08:1 rear-axle ratio on 2WD models with the 5.3-liter V-8. An integrated brake controller is standard, and a heavy-duty trailer package with a 3.42:1 axle ratio is available. Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon extended and crew cab models are now available with a 5.3-liter V-8, while a new fuel control module on the 2.9-liter engine delivers up to 25 mpg, according to GM. Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 series trucks likewise receive six-speed automatic transmissions on 5.3, 6.0- and 6.2-liter engines. The option of an Xtra Fuel Economy (XFE) model is also available, and is claimed to increase fuel efficiency by 1 mpg. New two-mode hybrid models utilize an Electrically Variable Transmission, a 300-volt energy storage system and cylinder deactivation technology to deliver city/highway fuel economy improvements of 40 percent and 25 percent, respectively. Powered by a 6.0-liter V-8, it can still tow up to 6,100 pounds. As usual, similar changes have been implemented to GMs full-size SUV line, including the Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon and Yukon XL. Six-speed automatic transmissions are standard, and an XFE model is available on the Tahoe and the Yukon. The Tahoe, Yukon and the Cadillac Escalade are available in two-mode hybrid variations. GMs midsize SUV line, including the GMC Acadia, the Buick Enclave and the Saturn Outlook, now includes the Chevy Traverse. All models are powered by an updated version of GMs 3.6-liter DOHC V-6, which now features direct injection and a 13-hp boost over last years engine. Youll notice in the accompanying guide that the Traverse has a 5,200-pound tow rating, while its siblings still carry last years 4,500pound rating. At the time of this writing, GM expected to upgrade the other models to the

Toyota Tundra

5,200-pound rating as well (except the Buick Enclave). Be sure to check with your dealer.

The Others
The Honda Pilot is all-new for 2009, and is longer, taller and wider than the previous model. Up to eight passengers can fit in the three rows, and its available in 2WD and 4WD. The standard 3.5-liter iVETEC V-6 features a revised version of Hondas Variable Cylinder Management, which allows the engine to run in six-cylinder, fourcylinder and three-cylinder modes for greater fuel efficiency. An integrated hitch receiver and hill start assist are among the many features RV owners will find useful. Kia has introduced a full-size SUV called the Borrego. Available in 2WD or 4WD, this full-size SUV means business, with a standard 276-hp V6, or an available 4.6-liter, DOHC V-8. The latter produces 337 hp and bestows the Borrego with a tow rating of up to 7,500 pounds. At press time, not much is known about Toyotas new Venza, except that it is a crossover that fills the gap between the RAV4 and the popular Highlander. Power comes from a standard 2.7-liter four cylinder, or an optional 3.5-liter V-6 producing 268 hp. Venza is available in 2WD or AWD, and all models feature a six-speed automatic transmission. q

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How to Use This Guide

nder each vehicle brand, you will find three headings: Vehicle, Engine and Tow Limit (lb). The vehicle heading describes the vehicle model and/or configuration, and indicates whether the vehicle is 2WD (front or rear), 4WD or All Wheel Drive (AWD). The engine heading shows the engine size expressed in liters, followed by the configuration (I = Inline, V = V engine as in V-6 or V-8) and the number of cylinders. Under tow limit, you will find the manufacturers stated maximum tow capacity for that vehicle. In many instances, you may note a letter(s) and/or symbol(s) after the model or tow rating, which indicates a footnote listing specific requirements for that rating, such as a certain gear ratio. When letters or symbols are separated by a comma, this indicates that more than one footnote applies; when separated by a forward slash (/) either/or can apply. A slash may also be used to separate two different models, if the ratings differ depending on how the vehicle is equipped. In these instances, ratings relative to the model or its equipment will be listed in respective order under the tow limit heading. Example:

Vehicle Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD

Engine 4.2L I-6

Tow Limit (lb) 5,400/5,300(e)

Moreover, the ratings are listed in a similar manner to the manufacturers. For example, Ford Motor Company lists conventional and fifth-wheel tow ratings separately, while Dodge, GM and Toyota list them together. Likewise, Ford lists automatic and manual-transmission-equipped models under separate headings, while other manufacturers list

them under the same headings with a separate column that denotes transmission type. Footnotes are listed immediately under each brand or vehicle family, and consist of various keys for gear ratios as well as abbreviations for vehicle configurations (LB = Longbed, CC= Crew Cab, etc.), notes about how different trim levels or options may affect towing capacity, etc. If there is no footnote, then there is only one vehicle configuration capable of towing that amount. Weve also included pertinent factory notes where applicable about each vehicle or family of vehicles, but due to space considerations, we cannot possibly list all of them. When considering a certain vehicle for purchase based on its tow rating, make sure to consult with the dealer and/or manufacturers towing guide to get specifics on what that tow rating is based upon. For example, many tow ratings are based on an unloaded vehicle with one occupant; if you normally travel with your family and equipment, you must deduct passenger/equipment weight accordingly to arrive at that vehicles actual towing capacity in your application. Most trailer weights are based on the assumption that you will be using a weight-distributing hitch (and rightfully so), and have drastically reduced ratings for the same application using a weight-carrying hitch. Finally, remember that every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this guide, but many of the ratings contained in it were considered preliminary by the manufacturer at the time of this writing (which is before official ratings have been released in many cases). Most of the time, the numbers dont change when the official ratings are released but, in some instances, they do. Perhaps more importantly, the ratings dont usually change significantly enough to affect your purchase decision. q
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Trailer Life 2009 Tow Ratings Guide


COMPILED
BY

CHRIS H EMER Traverse/Acadia FWD Traverse/Acadia FWD Traverse/Acadia AWD Traverse/Acadia AWD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 2WD Colorado/Canyon CC 2WD Colorado/Canyon CC 2WD Colorado/Canyon CC 2WD Colorado/Canyon CC 2WD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Reg Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon Ext Cab 4WD Colorado/Canyon CC 4WD Colorado/Canyon CC 4WD * With ZQ8 Sport Suspension Equinox Express/Savana 1500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 1500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 1500 SWB CV AWD Express/Savana 1500 SWB PV 2WD Express/Savana 1500 SWB PV AWD Express/Savana 2500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 SWB PV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 SWB PV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 2500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 SWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 SWB PV 2WD 3.6L V-6 3.6L V-6 3.6L V-6 3.6L V-6 2.9L I-4 2.9L I-4 3.7L I-5 2.9L I-4 2.9L I-4 3.7L I-5 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 2.9L I-4 2.9L I-4 3.7L I-5 5.3L V-8 2.9L I-4 2.9L I-4 3.7L I-5 2.9L I-4 3.7L I-5 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 3.7L I-5 5.3L V-8 2,000 5,200 (t)/4,500 (t) 2,000 5,200 (t)/4,500 (t) 3,400 (a,g) 2,400 (m,g) 4,000 (a,g) 3,200 (a,g) 2,200 (m,g) 5,500 (a,g) 6,000 (a,e/g) 4,000 (a,e*) 3,000 (a,g) 2,100 (m,g) 5,500 (a,g) 6,000 (a,e/g) 3,100 (a,g) 2,100 (m,g) 4,000 (a,g) 2,900 (a,g) 5,500 (a,g) 6,000 (a,e/i) 3,800 (a,e*) 5,500 (a,g) 6,000 (a,e/i)

ACURA
Vehicle MDX Engine 3.7L V-6 Tow Limit (lb) 5,000

AUDI
Q7 Q7 Q7 Q7 3.6L V-6 3.6L V-6 4.2L V-8 4.2L V-8 5,500 6,600 (t) 5,500 6,600 (t)

BMW
X3 3.0si X5 3.0si X5 4.8Li X6 X6 3.0L I-6 3.0L I-6 4.8L V-8 3.0L I-6 4.4L V-8 3,500 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000

BUICK
Enclave FWD Enclave FWD 3.6L V-6 3.6L V-6 2,000 4,500 (t)

CADILLAC Escalade 2WD 6.2L V-8 Escalade AWD 6.2L V-8 Escalade ESV 2WD 6.2L V-8 Escalade ESV AWD 6.2L V-8 Escalade EXT AWD 6.2L V-8 Escalade Two Mode Hybrid 2WD 6.0L V-8 Escalade Two Mode Hybrid 4WD 6.0L V-8 SRX All SRX All CHEVROLET/GMC
Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 2WD Avalanche 1500 4WD Avalanche 1500 4WD Avalanche 1500 4WD Avalanche 1500 4WD Avalanche 1500 4WD * = Flex Fuel model 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8

8,300 8,100 7,600 7,800 7,500 5,800 5,600 2,000 4,250 (t)

5,100 (b*) 5,600 (e*) 8,100 (e,p*) 5,000 (b) 5,500 (e) 8,000 (e) 8,100 5,400 (e*) 7,800 (e,p*) 5,500 (e) 7,900 (e,p) 7,700 (e)

All 4.3L V-6 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8

3,500 4,400 6,700 (e/g) 6,500 6,200 6,000 6,400 (g) 7.400 (i) 8,400 (g) 10,000 (i) 7,600 (g) 10,000 (i) 6,200 (g) 7,200 (i) 8,200 (g) 10,000 (i) 6,400 (g) 9,400 (i) 8,400 (g) 10,000 (i) 7,600 (g)

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Express/Savana 3500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 LWB CV 2WD Express/Savana 3500 LWB PV 2WD

4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8

6,100 (g) 7,100 (i) 8,200 (g) 10,000 (i) 7,300 (g)

1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD

4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8

8,500 (i) 7,500 (g) 8,500 (i) 6,400 (e) 9,400 (e,p)

Silverado/Sierra 1500 Reg Cab, Std. Bed


1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Reg Cab Std. Bed 4WD * Flex Fuel model 4.3L V-6 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4,800 (d) 5,300 (g) 5,200 (d) 7,200 (g) 7,200 (a4,e) 8,200 (a4,g) 6,600 (a6,e*) 6,700 (a6,e) 9,100 (a6,e,p*) 9,200 (a6,e,p) 5,100 (g) 6,000 (e) 6,400 (e) 8,900 (e,p) 7,900 (g) 8,900 (i)

Silverado/Sierra 1500 CC, Shortbed


1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 4.8L V-8 4,700 (d) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 4.8L V-8 6,700 (g) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 5.3L V-8 6,100 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 5.3L V-8 9,600 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.0L V-8 6,600 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.2L V-8 6,600 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.0L V-8 9,600 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.2L V-8 9,600 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.0L V-8 10,600 (g,t) 1500 CC Shortbed 2WD 6.2L V-8 10,600 (g,t) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 4.8L V-8 5,400 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 5.3L V-8 6,000 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 5.3L V-8 9,500 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 6.0L V-8 6,300 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 6.2L V-8 6,300 (e) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 6.0L V-8 9,300 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 6.2L V-8 9,300 (e,p) 1500 CC Shortbed 4WD 6.0L V-8 10,400 (g,t) Manufacturers Note: Travel trailer ratings are shown; fifth-wheel ratings may be considerably less (up to 1,000 lb).

Silverado/Sierra 1500 Ext Cab, Std. Bed


1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 1500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 4.3L V-6 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 4,400 (d) 4,900 (g) 4,700 (d) 6,700 (g) 6,700 (a4,e) 7,700 (a4,g) 6,200 (a6,e) 9,700 (a6,e,p) 6,700 (e) 9,700 (e,p) 10,700 (g,t) 5,500 (e) 5,900 (e) 9,400 (e,p) 7,500 (g) 8,500 (i) 6,400 (e) 9,400 (e,p) 10,400 (g,t)

Sierra Denali CC Shortbed, 1500 2WD and AWD


Sierra Denali CC Shortbed 2WD 5.3L V-8 6,100 Sierra Denali CC Shortbed 2WD 5.3L V-8 9,600 (p) Sierra Denali CC Shortbed 2WD 6.2L V-8 6,600 Sierra Denali CC Shortbed 2WD 6.2L V-8 9,600 (p) Sierra Denali CC Shortbed AWD 5.3L V-8 6,000 Sierra Denali CC Shortbed AWD 5.3L V-8 9,500 (p) Sierra Denali CC Shortbed AWD 6.2L V-8 6,300 Sierra Denali CC Shortbed AWD 6.2L V-8 9,300 (p) Manufacturers Note: This model is neither designed nor intended to tow a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer.

Silverado/Sierra 1500 Reg Cab LB


1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 4.3L V-6 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4,700 (d) 5,200 (g) 5,100 (d) 7,100 (g) 7,000 (a4,e) 8,000 (a4,e) 6,500 (a6,e) 10,000 (a6,e,p) 4,900 (g) 5,800 (e) 6,300 (e) 9,800 (e,p) 7,900 (g) 8,900 (i)

Silverado/Sierra 1500 Ext Cab, Shortbed


1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 1500 Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 4.3L V-6 4.3L V-6 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 4.8L V-8 4,400 (d) 4,900 (g) 5,800 (e) 6,800 (g) 6,800 (e) 7,800 (g) 6,700 (e) 9,700 (e,p) 5,500 (e)

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09
1500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 1500 Ext Cab LB 4WD * Flex Fuel model

O W I N G

U I D E

Silverado/Sierra 1500 Ext Cab LB


5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 7,600 (a4,g) 6,000 (a6,e) 9,500 (a6,e,p) 5,700 (e) 9,200 (e,p) 7,600 (g*) 7,300 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 3500 Reg Cab


3500 Reg Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Reg Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Reg Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Reg Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Reg Cab DRW 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 10,300 (g) 12,800 (i) 15,800 (g) 10,000 (g) 12,500 (i) 16,800 (g) 10,000 (g) 12,500 (i) 15,400 (g) 9,700 (g) 12,200 (i) 16,500 (g)

Silverado/Sierra Two-Mode Hybrid


Two-Mode Hybrid 2WD Two-Mode Hybrid 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6,100 (b) 5,900 (b)

Silverado/Sierra 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed


2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 2WD 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 2500 Ext Cab Std. Bed 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 10,200 (g) 12,700 (i) 15,500 (g) 9,900 (g) 12,400 (i) 14,500 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 3500 Ext Cab


3500 Ext Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Ext Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Ext Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Ext Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Ext Cab DRW 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 9,900 (g) 12,400 (i) 15,400 (g) 9,500 (g) 12,000 (i) 16,300 (g) 9,600 (g) 12,100 (i) 14,900 (g) 9,200 (g) 11,700 (i) 16,100 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 2500 CC Std. Bed


2500 CC Std. Bed 2WD 2500 CC Std. Bed 2WD 2500 CC Std. Bed 2WD 2500 CC Std. Bed 4WD 2500 CC Std. Bed 4WD 2500 CC Std. Bed 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 10,000 (g) 12,500 (i) 15,300 (g) 9,800 (g) 12,300 (i) 13,900 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 3500 CC
3500 CC SRW 2WD 3500 CC SRW 2WD 3500 CC SRW 2WD 3500 CC DRW 2WD 3500 CC DRW 2WD 3500 CC DRW 2WD 3500 CC SRW 4WD 3500 CC SRW 4WD 3500 CC SRW 4WD 3500 CC DRW 4WD 3500 CC DRW 4WD 3500 CC DRW 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 9,700 (g) 12,200 (i) 15,100 (g) 9,300 (g) 11,800 (i) 16,200 (g) 9,400 (g) 11,900 (i) 14,800 (g) 9,100 (g) 11,600 (i) 15,900 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 2500 Reg Cab LB


2500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 2500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 2500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 2500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 2500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 2500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 10,500 (g) 13,000 (i) 15,800 (g) 10,200 (g) 12,700 (i) 15,500 (g)

Silverado/Sierra 2500 Ext Cab LB


2500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 2500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 2500 Ext Cab LB 2WD 2500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 2500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 2500 Ext Cab LB 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 10,000 (g) 12,500 (i) 15,300 (g) 9,800 (g) 12,300 (i) 13,800 (g)

Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Yukon,Yukon XL, Yukon and Yukon XL Denali 1500 Series
Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 2WD Tahoe/Yukon Two-Mode Hybrid, 2WD Tahoe/Yukon 4WD Tahoe/Yukon 4WD Tahoe/Yukon 4WD Tahoe/Yukon Two-Mode Hybrid, 4WD 4.8L V-8 4.8L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.2L V-8 6.0L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.2L V-8 6.0L V-8 4,500 (d) 4,800 (g) 5,400 (b) 5,900 (e) 8,400 (e,p) 8,500 (e) 6,200 5,700 8,200 (p) 8,100 6,000

Silverado/Sierra 2500 CC LB
2500 CC LB 2WD 2500 CC LB 2WD 2500 CC LB 2WD 2500 CC LB 4WD 2500 CC LB 4WD 2500 CC LB 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.6L V-8 TD 9,900 (g) 12,400 (i) 14,500 (g) 9,600 (g) 12,100 (i) 13,000 (g)

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Suburban/Yukon XL 2WD Suburban/Yukon XL 2WD Suburban/Yukon XL 2WD Suburban/Yukon XL 2WD Suburban/Yukon XL 4WD Suburban/Yukon XL 4WD Suburban/Yukon XL 4WD Yukon Denali 2WD Yukon Denali AWD Yukon XL Denali 2WD Yukon XL Denali AWD

5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.2L V-8 6.2L V-8 6.2L V-8 6.2L V-8

5,100 (b) 5,600 (e) 8,100 (e,p) 8,100 5,400 (e) 7,900 (e,p) 7,900 8,100 8,100 7,600 7,900

Caliber Charger Charger Grand Caravan Grand Caravan Grand Caravan Journey Town and Country Town and Country Town and Country

2.4L I-4 3.5L V-6 5.7L V-8 3.3L V-6 3.8L V-6 4.0L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.3L V-6 3.8L V-6 4.0L V-6

2,000 (t) 2,000 2,000 2,000 (t) 3,600 (t) 3,600 (t) 3,500 (t) 2,000 (t) 3,600 (t) 3,600 (t)

Dodge Dakota Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon XL 2500


2500 Long Wheelbase 2WD 2500 Long Wheelbase 4WD 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 9,600 9,300 Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 3,350 (m6,c) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 4,700 (a4,f) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 5,000 (a4,h) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 4.7L V-8 6,000 (a5,f) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 2WD 4.7L V-8 7,200 (a5,h) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 3.7L V-6 3,950 (m6,f) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 3.7L V-6 4,800 (a4,h) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 4.7L V-8 5,800 (a5,f) Dakota Ext Cab Shortbed 4WD 4.7L V-8 7,000 (a5,g) Dakota CC Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 3,200 (m6,c) Dakota CC Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 4,500 (a4,f) Dakota CC Shortbed 2WD 3.7L V-6 4,800 (a4,h) Dakota CC Shortbed 2WD 4.7L V-8 5,850 (a5,f) Dakota CC Shortbed 2WD 4.7L V-8 7,050 (a5,h) Dakota CC Shortbed 4WD 3.7L V-8 3,800 (m6,f) Dakota CC Shortbed 4WD 3.7L V-8 4,600 (a4,h) Dakota CC Shortbed 4WD 4.7L V-8 5,650 (a5,f) Dakota CC Shortbed 4WD 4.7L V-8 6,850 (a5,h) Manufacturers Note: V-6 weight ratings shown are for ST trim levels, V-8 ratings are for SXT trim levels. Actual ratings may differ slightly between V-6 ST and SXT, depending on model (Extended Cab or Crew Cab).

Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Envoy Denali


Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD Trailblazer/Envoy 2WD Trailblazer/Envoy 4WD Trailblazer/Envoy 4WD Trailblazer/Envoy 4WD Trailblazer/Envoy 4WD Trailblazer/Envoy 4WD Trailblazer SS 2WD Trailblazer SS AWD Key to GM Section a = Automatic Transmission a4 = Automatic Transmission, four speed a5 = Automatic Transmission, five speed a6 = Auto Transmssion, six speed m = Manual Transmission b = 3.08:1 axle ratio d =3.23:1 axle ratio e =3.42:1 axle ratio g =3.73:1 axle ratio i =4:10:1 axle ratio p = Cooling-package required 4.2L I-6 4.2L I-6 4.2L I-6 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 4.2L I-6 4.2L I-6 4.2L I-6 5.3L V-8 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 6.0L V-8 5,400/5,300 (e) 5,900/5,800 (g) 6,400 (i)/6,300 (i) 6,300 (e)/6,100(e) 6,800 (g)/6,600 (g) 5,200 (e) 5,700 (g) 6,200 (i) 6,100 (e)/6,000 (e) 6,600 (g)/6,500 (g) 6,800 (i) 6,600 (i)

AWD = All Wheel Drive CC = Crew Cab LB = 8-foot bed Shortbed = 5-foot 9-inch bed Std. Bed = 6 12-foot bed SWB = Short Wheelbase LWB = Long Wheelbase DRW = Dual Rear Wheels SRW = Single Rear Wheel CV = Cargo Van PV = Passenger Van TD = Turbodiesel t = Tow package required

Dodge Durango
Durango 2WD 3.7L V-6 3,800 (a4,h) Durango 2WD 4.7L V-8 4,550 (a5,c) Durango 2WD 4.7L V-8 6,000 (a5,f) Durango 2WD 5.7L V-8 5,950 (a5,c) Durango 2WD 5.7L V-8 8,950 (a5,h) Durango 4WD 4.7L V-8 5,900 (a5,f) Durango 4WD 5.7L V-8 7,250 (a5,f) Durango 4WD 5.7L V-8 8,750 (a5,h) Durango 4WD hybrid 5.7L V-8 6,000 Manufacturers Note: Weights shown are the highest available for a given model/ engine. Weights can vary depending on the model and equipment chosen.

CHRYSLER/DODGE Chrysler 300 3.5L V-6 Chrysler 300 5.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 2WD 4.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 2WD 4.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 2WD 5.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 2WD 5.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 4WD 4.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 4WD 5.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 4WD 5.7L V-8 Aspen Limited 4WD hybrid 5.7L V-8

2,000 2,000 4,400 (c) 5,900 (f) 5,900 (c) 8,900 (h) 5,750 (f) 7,200 (f) 8,700 (h) 6,000

Ram 1500 Regular Cab Shortbed


1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 2WD 3.7L V-6 3.7L V-6 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 3,300 (m,h) 3,800 (a4,f/h) 6,650 (a5,f) 7,650 (a5,h) 6,100 (a5,c) 8,100 (a5,f) 9,100 (a5,h)

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09

O W I N G 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8

U I D E Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD Ram 2500 LB 4WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 13,550 (a6,g) 13,550 (a6,i) 9,050 (a5,g) 11,050 (a5,i) 12,100 (m6,e) 13,100 (m6,g) 10,200 (a6,e) 13,200 (a6,g) 13,200 (a6,i)

1500 Reg Cab SB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 4WD 1500 Reg Cab SB 4WD

6,400 (a5,f*) 7,400 (a5,h*) 7,900 (a5,f*) 8,900 (a5,h*)

Ram 1500 Regular Cab Longbed


1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 3.7L V-6 3,100 (m,h) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 3.7L V-6 3,650 (a4,h) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 4.7L V-8 6,500 (a5,f) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 4.7L V-8 7,500 (a5,h) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 5.7L V-8 6,000 (a5,c) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 5.7L V-8 8,000 (a5,f) 1500 Reg Cab LB 2WD 5.7L V-8 9,000 (a5,h) 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 4.7L V-8 6,350 (a5,f*) 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 4.7L V-8 7,250 (a5,h*) 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 5.7L V-8 7,750 (a5,f*) 1500 Reg Cab LB 4WD 5.7L V-8 8,750 (a5,h*) *Ratings for LT265 tires. LT275 tires rated 50-100 lb less depending on model.

Ram 2500 Quad Cab Shortbed


Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab SB 4WD * Power Wagon model 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 9,250 (a5,g) 11,250 (a5,i) 12,300 (m6,e) 13,300 (m6,g) 10,400 (a6,e) 13,400 (a6,g) 13,400 (a6,i) 8,800 (a5,g) 10,800 (a5,i) 10,500 (a5,i*) 11,850 (m6,e) 12,850 (m6,g) 9,950 (a6,e) 12,950 (a6,g) 12,950 (a6,i)

Ram 1500 Quad Cab


Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD 3.7L V-6 3.7L V-6 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 2,950 (m,h) 3,450 (a4,h) 6,350 (a5,f) 7,350 (a5,h) 5,800 (a5,c) 7,800 (a5,f) 8,800 (a5,h) 6,100 (a5,f) 7,100 (a5,h) 7,550 (a5,f) 8,550 (a5,h)

Ram 2500 Quad Cab Longbed


Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 2WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD Ram 2500 Quad Cab LB 4WD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 9,100 (a5,g) 11,100 (a5,i) 12,200 (m6,e) 13,200 (m6,g) 10,250 (a6,e) 13,250 (a6,g) 13,250 (a6,i) 8,650 (a5,g) 10,650 (a5,i) 11,700 (m6,e) 12,700 (m6,g) 9,800 (a6,e) 12,800 (a6,g) 12,800 (a6,i)

Ram 1500 Crew Cab


Ram 1500 CC 2WD 4.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 2WD 4.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 2WD 5.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 2WD 5.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 2WD 5.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 4WD 4.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 4WD 4.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 4WD 5.7L V-8 Ram 1500 CC 4WD 5.7L V-8 ** Models with Rambox are rated 100 lb less. 6,250 (a5,f**) 7,250 (a5,h**) 5,700 (a5,c**) 7,700 (a5,f**) 8,700 (a5,h**) 6,000 (a5,f**) 7,000 (a5,h**) 7,450 (a5,f**) 8,450 (a5,h**)

Ram 2500 Mega Cab


Manufacturers Note: Ratings shown are for base ST models with 17-inch wheels. SLT and Laramie models, and/or models with 20-inch wheels have lower ratings, depending on model and equipment. See dealer for details. Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 2WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 8,850 (a5,g) 10,850 (a5,i) 11,850 (m6,e) 12,850 (m6,g) 9,950 (a6,e) 12.950 (a6,g) 12,950 (a6,i) 8,500 (a5,i) 10,500 (a5,g) 11,550 (m6,e)

Ram 2500 Regular Cab Longbed


Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 2WD Ram 2500 LB 2WD 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 9,550 (a5,g) 11,550 (a5,i) 12,450 (m6,e) 13,450 (m6,g) 10,550 (a6,e)

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Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4WD

6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD

12,550 (m6,g) 9,600 (a6,e) 12,600 (a6,g) 12,600 (a6,i)

Ram 3500 Regular Cab Longbed


Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Regular Cab LB DRW 4WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 12,100 (m6,e) 14,100 (m6,g) 10,150 (a6,e) 14,150 (a6,g) 16,150 (a6,i) 11,700 (m6,e) 13,700 (m6,g) 9,800 (a6,e) 13,800 (a6,g) 16,800 (a6,i)

Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab DRW 4WD

6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD

14,050 (a6,g) 16,050 (a6,i) 11,600 (m6,e) 13,600 (m6,g) 9,650 (a6,e) 13,650 (a6,g) 15,650 (a6,i) 11,650 (m6,e) 13,650 (m6,g) 9,700 (a6,e) 13,700 (a6,g) 16,700 (a6,i) 11,250 (m6,e) 13,250 (m6,g) 9,300 (a6,e) 13,300 (a6,g) 16,300 (a6,i)

Ram 3500 Quad Cab Shortbed


Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab SB SRW 4WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 12,300 (m6,e) 14,300 (m6,g) 10,350 (a6,e) 14,350 (a6,g) 16,350 (a6,i) 11,900 (m6,e) 13,900 (m6,g) 10,000 (a6,e) 14,000 (a6,g) 17,000 (a6,i)

Ram 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab


3500 Regular Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab SRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 3500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 4500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 4500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 4500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 4500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 5.7L V-8 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 12,500 (m,e) 17,500 (m,g/i) 16,450 (a6,g) 17,45 (a6,i) 12,250 (m,e) 17,250 (m,g/i) 16,200 (a6,g) 17,200 (a6,i) 11,050 (a5,i) 12,200 (m,e) 17,200 (m,g/i) 17,150 (a6,i) 10,800 (a5,i) 11,950 (m,e) 16,950 (m,g/i) 16,900 (a6,i) 12,100 (m,e) 17,100 (m,g/i) 16,050 (a6,g) 17,050 (a6,i) 11,900 (m,e) 16,900 (m,g/i) 15,850 (a6,g) 16,850 (a6,i) 10,700 (a5,i) 11,850 (m,e) 16,850 (m,g/i) 16,750 (a6,i) 10,450 (a5,i) 11,600 (m,e) 16,600 (m,g/i) 16,550 (a6,i) 18,400 (m) 18,350 (a6) 18,050 (m) 18,000 (a6)

Ram 3500 Quad Cab Longbed


Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 2WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB SRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 4WD Ram 3500 Quad Cab LB DRW 4WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 12,150 (m6,e) 14,150 (m6,g) 10,200 (a6,e) 14,200 (a6,g) 16,200 (a6,i) 11,750 (m6,e) 13,750 (m6,g) 9,850 (a6,e) 13,850 (a6,g) 15,850 (a6,i) 11,750 (m6,e) 13,750 (m6,g) 9,850 (a6,e) 13,850 (a6,g) 16,850 (a6,i) 11,400 (m6,e) 13,400 (m6,g) 9,450 (a6,e) 13,450 (a6,g) 16,450 (a6,i)

Ram 3500 Mega Cab


Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 2WD Ram 3500 Mega Cab SRW 2WD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 12,000 (m6,e) 14,000 (m6,g) 10,050 (a6,e)

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09

O W I N G 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD 6.7L I-6 TD

U I D E 18,000 (m) 17,900 (a) 17,700 (m) 17,600 (a) 18,350 (m) 18,300 (a6) 18,000 (m) 17,950 17,950 (m) 17,900 (a6) 17,600 (m) 17,550 E-350 Super Duty Extended Van E-350 Super Duty Extended Van E-150 Wagon E-150 Wagon E-350 Super Duty Wagon E-350 Super Duty Wagon E-350 Super Duty Wagon E-350 Super Duty Wagon E-350 Super Duty Ext. Wagon E-350 Super Duty Ext. Wagon 6.0L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 TD 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.0L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 9,400 (d) 10,000 (f) 6,000 (f) 7,000 (e) 6,700 (e) 8,500 (e) 8,900 (e) 10,000 (f) 6,500 (e) 10,000 (f)

4500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 4500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 4500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 4500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 5500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 5500 Regular Cab DRW 2WD 5500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 5500 Regular Cab DRW 4WD 5500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 5500 Quad Cab DRW 2WD 5500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD 5500 Quad Cab DRW 4WD

Edge, Escape, Explorer, Expedition, Flex


Edge Edge Escape 2WD/4WD Explorer Explorer 2WD Explorer 4WD/AWD Explorer Explorer 2WD Explorer 4WD/AWD Sport Trac 2WD Sport Trac 2WD/AWD Sport Trac 2WD Sport Trac 2WD/AWD Expedition 2WD/4WD Expedition 2WD Expedition 4WD Expedition EL 2WD/4WD Expedition EL 2WD Expedition EL 4WD Flex Flex 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 2,000 3,500 (t) 3,500 (t) 3,500 (d,all) 5,375 (e) 5,205 (e) 3,500d (all) 7,285 (d,t) 7,115 (d,t) 5,250 (e) 5,080 (e) 7,160 (d) 6,990 (d) 6,000 (all) 9,200 (t) 9,000 (t) 6,000 (all) 8,900 (t) 8,700 (t) 2,000 4,500 (t)

Sprinter
Sprinter All 5,000 Manufacturers Note: Weights shown are for 60-inch cab-to-axle models in ST trim. Longer cab-to-axle lengths will reduce tow rating by as much as 300 lb, depending on model. See dealer for details. Key to Dodge Section a = Automatic Transmission a4 = Automatic Transmission, four speed a5 = Automatic Transmssion, five speed a6 = Automatic Transmission, six speed m = Manual Transmission c = 3:21:1 axle ratio e = 3.42:1 axle ratio f = 3:55:1 axle ratio g = 3.73:1 axle ratio

h = 3.92:1 axle ratio i = 4.10:1 axle ratio CC = Crew Cab QC = Quad Cab LB = Longbed SB = Shortbed SRW = Single Rear Wheels DRW = Dual Rear Wheels (dually) TD = Turbodiesel t = Tow Package Required

FORD
E-Series Van/Wagon
E-150 Van E-150 Van E-150 Van E-250 Van E-250 Van E-250 Van E-250 Extended Van E-250 Extended Van E-250 Extended Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Van E-350 Super Duty Extended Van E-350 Super Duty Extended Van E-350 Super Duty Extended Van E-350 Super Duty Extended Van 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 4.6L V-8 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.0L V-8 TD 6.0L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6,000 (e) 6,500 (f) 7,400 (e) 6,000 (e) 6,400 (f) 7,400 (f) 5,900 (e) 6,300 (f) 7,300 (e) 7,300 (e) 7,300 (f) 9,100 (e) 10,000 (f) 9,500 (d) 10,000 (f) 7,200 (e) 7,200 (f) 9,000 (e) 10,000 (f)

Ranger
Ranger Regular Cab SB 2WD Ranger Regular Cab LB 2WD Ranger Regular Cab LB 2WD Ranger SuperCab 2WD Ranger SuperCab 2WD Ranger SuperCab 2WD Ranger SuperCab 2WD Ranger SuperCab 2WD Ranger SuperCab 4WD Ranger SuperCab 4WD Ranger SuperCab 4WD * = Sport model. 2.3L I-4 2.3L I-4 4.0L V-6 2.3L I-4 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 2,240 2,220 6,000 2,080 (a,f) 3,400 (m) 3,220 (m*) 5,860 (a,d) 5680 (a,d*) 3,140 (m) 5,600 (a,e) 5,600 (a,f)

F-150
F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD 4.6L V-8 2V 4.6L V-8 2V 4.6L V-8 2V 4.6L V-8 2V 4.6L V-8 3V 4.6L V-8 3V 5,400 (a4,d) 5,900 (a4,e) 5,500 (a4,d) 6,000 (a4,e) 8000 (a6,c) 8,400 (a6,d)

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F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 2WD F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 Reg. Cab LB 4WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCab LB 2WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCab LB 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Shortbed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD

5.4L V-8 8,000 (a6,b) 5.4L V-8 9,800 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (a6,e,t) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,700 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,700 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,000 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 7,700 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 8,600 (a6,d/e) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,800 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,800 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,200 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 7,800 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 9,500 (a6,d/e) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (a6,e,t) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,200 (a4,d) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,700 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,800 (a6,c) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,200 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 7,800 (a6,b) 5.4L V-8 8,600 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,300 (a4,d) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,800 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,200 (a6,c) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,500 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 8,600 (a6,b) 5.4L V-8 9,800 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (a6,e,t) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (a6,e) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,400 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,500 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,000 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 7,600 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 8,400 (a6,d/e) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,500 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,900 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,400 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 8,300 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 9,700 (a6,d/e) 5.4L V-8 11,200 (a6,d/e,t) 5.4L V-8 11,000 (a6,e) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,200 (a4,d) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,700 (a4,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,500 (a6,b) 4.6L V-8 3V 8,100 (a6,c) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,500 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 8,500 (a6,b) 5.4L V-8 9,800 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (a6,e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,800 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,300 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 8,200 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 9,700 (a6,d/e) 5.4L V-8 11,200 (a6,d/e,t) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,100 (a4,d) 4.6L V-8 2V 5,600 (a4,e)

F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 2WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 4WD F-150 SuperCrew Cab Std. Bed 4WD

4.6L V-8 3V 8,000 (a6,c) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,300 (a6,d) 5.4L V-8 8,400 (b) 5.4L V-8 9,700 (d) 5.4L V-8 11,300 (e) 4.6L V-8 3V 7,600 (a6,d) 4.6L V-8 3V 9,200 (a6,e) 5.4L V-8 8,100 (a6,c) 5.4L V-8 9,600 (a6,d/e) 5.4L V-8 11,100 (a6,d/e,t)

F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty, Conventional Towing, Automatic Transmission


F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SC SRW 4WD F-350 SC DRW 2WD F-350 SC DRW 2WD F-350 SC DRW 2WD F-350 SC DRW 2WD F-350 SC DRW 4WD F-350 SC DRW 4WD F-350 SC DRW 4WD F-350 SC DRW 4WD F-250/350 CC SRW 2WD F-250/350 CC SRW 2WD F-250/350 CC SRW 2WD F-250/350 CC SRW 2WD F-250/350 CC SRW 4WD F-250/350 CC SRW 4WD F-250/350 CC SRW 4WD F-250/350 CC SRW 4WD F-350 CC DRW 2WD F-350 CC DRW 2WD F-350 CC DRW 2WD F-350 CC DRW 4WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8 V-10 6.8 V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8 V-10 6.8 V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 10,200 (e) 12,200 (f) 12,500 (f/g) 12,500 (all) 9,800 (e) 11,800 (f) 12,500 (f/g) 12,500 (all) 12,200 (f) 15,000 (all) 15,000 (all) 11,800 (f) 14,600 (f) 15,000 (g) 10,000 (e) 12,000 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 9,500 (e) 11,500 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 11,800 (f) 14,700 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 11,400 (f) 14,300 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 9,700 (e) 11,700 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 9,300 (e) 11,300 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 14,500 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 14,000 (f)

2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide | 23

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09
F-350 CC DRW 4WD F-350 CC DRW 4WD F-450 DRW 2WD F-450 DRW 4WD

O W I N G 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD

U I D E 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 16,000 (g) 16,000 (g) F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Cab DRW 4WD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 11,300 (f) 14,100 (f) 16,100 (g) 15,300 (e) 14,500 (f) 16,000 (g) 15,700 (e/f) 18,200 (g,t) 14,000 (f) 15,500 (g) 15,200 (e/f) 17,700 (g,t) 24,600 (g,t) 24,200 (g,t)

F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty, Fifth-Wheel Towing, Automatic Transmission


F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Regular Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Regular Cab DRW 4WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4 V-8 TD 6.4 V-8 TD 6.4 V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4 V-8 TD 6.4 V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 10,200 (e) 12,200 (f) 15,000 (f) 16,800 (g) 16,300 (d/e) 9,800 (e) 11,800 (f) 14,600 (f) 16,500 (g) 15,800 (e) 12,200 (f) 15,100 (f) 16,600 (g) 15,800 (d) 16,300 (e/f) 18,800 (g,t) 11,800 (f) 14,600 (f) 16,100 (g) 15,800 (e/f) 18,300 (g,t) 10,000 (e) 12,000 (f) 14,800 (f) 16,600 (g) 16,000 (d/e) 9,500 (e) 11,500 (f) 14,400 (f) 16,300 (g) 15,600 (e) 11,800 (f) 14,700 (f) 16,200 (g) 15,600 (d) 15,900 (e/f) 18,400 (g,t) 11,400 (f) 14,300 (f) 15,800 (g) 15,500 (e/f) 18,000 (g,t) 9,700 (e) 11,700 (f) 14,600 (f) 16,500 (g) 15,800 (d/e) 9,300 (e)

F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty, Fifth-Wheel Towing, Manual Transmission


F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Reg. Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Cab DRW 4WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 SuperCab SRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 2WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-350 SuperCab DRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 9,200 (e) 11,200 (f) 14,000 (f) 16,000 (g) 16,300 (e) 8,800 (e) 10,800 (f) 13,600 (f) 15,600 (g) 15,800 (e) 11,200 (f) 14,100 (f) 16,100 (g) 16,300 (e/f) 10,800 (f) 13,600 (f) 15,600 (g) 15,800 (e/f) 9,000 (e) 11,000 (f) 13,800 (f) 15,700 (g) 15,900 (e) 8,300 (e) 10,300 (f) 13,100 (f) 15,100 (g) 15,300 (e) 10,800 (f) 13,700 (f) 15,700 (g) 15,900 (e/f) 10,400 (f) 13,300 (f) 15,300 (g) 15,500 (e/f) 8,700 (e) 10,700 (f)

24 | 2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide

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F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 2WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-250/F-350 Crew Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Cab DRW 4WD

6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD

13,700 (f) 15,600 (g) 15,800 (e) 8,300 (e) 10,300 (f) 13,100 (f) 15,100 (g) 15,300 (e) 13,500 (f) 15,500 (g) 15,700 (e/f) 13,000 (f) 15,000 (g) 15.200 (e/f) 18,600 (g,t) 18,200 (g,t)

F-350/F-450/F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab, Conventional Towing, Automatic Transmsission


F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8 V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8 V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 9,500 (e) 11,500 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 9,100 (e) 11,100 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 9,600 (e) 11,600 (f) 14,500 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (e/f) 9,200 (e) 11,200 (f) 14,100 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (e/f) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 9,200 (e) 11,200 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 8,700 (e) 10,700 (f) 12,500 (all) 12,500 (all) 14,100 (f) 15,000 (g)

F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD

6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD

15,000 (all) 13,700 (f) 15,000 (g) 14,900 (e/f) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 9,000 (e) 11,000 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 8,500 (e) 10,500 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 14,000 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (e/f) 13,500 (f) 15,000 (g) 14,700 (e/f) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all)

F-350/F-450/F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab, Conventional Towing, Manual Transmission


F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 9,500 (e) 10,500 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 8,100 (e) 10,100 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 8,100 (e) 10,600 (f) 13,500 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 7,700 (e) 10,200 (f) 13,100 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all)

2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide | 25

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09

O W I N G 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD

U I D E

F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD

16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 8,200 (e) 10,200 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 7,700 (e) 9,700 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 13,100 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (e/f) 12,700 (f) 14,700 (g) 14,900 (e/f) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 8,000 (e) 10,000 (f) 12,500 (f) 12,500 (e) 7,500 (e) 9,500 (f) 12,400 (f) 12,500 (e) 13,000 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,000 (all) 12,500 (f) 14,500 (g) 14,700 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all) 16,000 (all)

F-350/F-450/F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab, Fifth-Wheel Towing, Automatic Transmission


F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 9,500 (e) 11,500 (f) 14,400 (f) 15,600 (e) 9,100 (e) 11,100 (f) 14,000 (f) 15,000 (e) 9,600 (e) 11,600 (f) 14,500 (f) 16,000 (g) 15,700 (e) 15,600 (f) 9,200 (e) 11,200 (f) 14,100 (f) 15,600 (g) 15,200 (all) 18,500 (h) 18,300 (i) 17,600 (g/h) 21,600 (h,t) 18,100 (all) 17,300 (g/h) 21,300 (h,t) 18,300 (all) 17,500 (g/h) 24,500 (h,t) 18,000 (all) 17,100 (g/h) 24,100 (h,t) 9,200 (e) 11,200 (f) 14,000 (f) 15,100 (e) 8,700 (e) 10,700 (f) 13,600 (f) 14,700 (e) 14,100 (f) 15,600 (g) 15,300 (all) 13,700 (f) 15,200 (g) 14,900 (all) 18,000 (all) 17,200 (g/h) 21,200 (h,t) 17,700 (all) 16,800 (g/h) 20,800 (h,t) 17,900 (all)

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F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD

6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD

17,100 (g/h) 24,100 (h,t) 17,500 (all) 16,700 (g/h) 23,700 (h,t) 9,000 (e) 11,000 (f) 13,900 (f) 14,900 (e) 8,500 (e) 10,500 (f) 13,400 (f) 14,400 (e) 14,000 (f) 15,500 (g) 15,100 (all) 13,500 (f) 15,000 (g) 14,700 (all) 17,900 (all) 17,000 (g/h) 21,000 (h,t) 17,500 (all) 16,600 (g/h) 20,600 (h,t) 17,700 (all) 16,900 (g/h) 23,900 (h,t) 17,400 (all) 16,500 (g/h) 23,500 (h,t)

F-350/F-450/F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab, Fifth-Wheel Towing, Manual Transmission


F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 2WD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 8,500 (e) 10,500 (f) 13,400 (f) 15,600 (e) 8,100 (e) 10,100 (f) 13,000 (f) 15,000 (e) 8,100 (e) 10,600 (f) 13,500 (f) 15,500 (g) 15,700 (all) 7,700 (e) 10,200 (f) 13,100 (f) 15,100 (g) 15,200 (all) 18,500 (all) 17,600 (g/h) 19,600 (h,t)

F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Reg. Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Reg Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Super Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab SRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-350 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-450 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD

6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD

18,100 (all) 17,300 (g/h) 19,300 (h,t) 18,300 (all) 17,500 (g/h) 19,500 (h,t) 18,000 (all) 17,100 (g/h) 19,100 (h,t) 8,200 (e) 10,200 (f) 13,000 (f) 15,100 (e) 7,700 (e) 9,700 (f) 12,600 (f) 14,700 (e) 13,100 (f) 15,100 (g) 15,300 (all) 12,700 (f) 14,700 (g) 14,900 (all) 18,000 (all) 17,200 (g/h) 19,200 (h,t) 17,700 (all) 16,800 (g/h) 18,800 (h,t) 17,900 (all) 17,100 (g/h) 19,100 (h,t) 17,500 (all) 16,700 (g/h) 18,700 (h,t) 8,000 (e) 10,000 (f) 12,900 (f) 14,900 (e) 7,500 (e) 9,500 (f) 12,400 (f) 14,400 (e) 13,000 (f) 15,000 (g) 15,100 (all) 12,500 (f) 14,500 (g) 14,700 (all) 17,900 (all) 17,000 (g/h) 19,000 (h,t) 17,500 (all) 16,600 (g/h) 18,600 (h,t)

2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide | 27

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09

O W I N G 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD 6.8L V-10 6.4L V-8 TD 6.4L V-8 TD

U I D E

F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 2WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD F-550 Crew Chassis Cab DRW 4WD Key to Ford Section *F-250/350 models with 5.4-liter V-8 and manual transmission are rated to tow 1,000 lb less. Ratings for 6.8-liter V-10 and 6.4-liter V-8 turbodiesel models are the same as automatic-transmission ratings. a = Automatic Transmission a4 = Automatic Transmission, four speed a6 = Auto Transmission, six speed m = Manual Transmission b = 3.15:1 axle ratio c = 3.31:1 axle ratio d = 3.55:1 axle ratio e = 3.73:1 axle ratio

17,700 (all) 16,900 (g/h) 18,900 (h,t) 17,400 (all) 16,500 (h) 18,500 (h,t)

JEEP
Commander 2WD Commander 2WD Commander 2WD Commander 4WD Commander 4WD Commander 4WD Grand Cherokee 2WD Grand Cherokee 4WD Grand Cherokee 2WD Grand Cherokee 4WD Grand Cherokee 2WD Grand Cherokee 4WD Grand Cherokee 2WD Grand Cherokee 4WD Grand Cherokee SRT8 Liberty 2WD Liberty 2WD Liberty 4WD Liberty 4WD Wrangler Wrangler Unlimited Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon a = Automatic transmission 3.7L V-6 3,500 4.7L V-8 6,500 5.7L V-8 7,400 3.7L V-6 3,500 4.7L V-8 6,500 5.7L V-8 7,200 3.0L TD V-6 7,400 3.0L TD V-6 7,200 3.7L V-6 3,500 3.7L V-6 3,500 4.7L V-8 6,500 4.7L V-8 6,500 5.7L V-8 7,400 5.7L V-8 7,200 6.1L V-8 3,500 3.7L V-6 3,500 (m,t) 3.7L V-6 5,000 (a,t) 3.7L V-6 3,500 (m,t) 3.7L V-6 5,000 (a,t) 3.8L V-6 2,000 3.8L V-6 3,500 3.8L V-6 3,500 m = Manual transmission

f = 4.10:1 axle ratio g = 4.30:1 axle ratio all = All available gear ratios apply AWD = All Wheel Drive CC = Crew Cab SC = SuperCab LB = 8-foot bed Shortbed = 512-foot bed Std. Bed = 612-foot bed SRW = Single Rear Wheel DRW = Dual Rear Wheels 2V = Two valves per cylinder 3V = Three valves per cylinder TD = Turbodiesel t = Tow package required

HONDA
Odyssey Pilot 2WD Pilot 4WD Ridgeline 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3,500 3,500 4,500 5,000

KIA
Borrego Borrego Sedona Sorento Sorento Sportage 3.8L V-6 4.6L V-8 3.8L V-6 3.3L V-6 3.8L V-6 2.7L V-6 5,000 7,500 3,500 3,500 5,000 2,000

HUMMER
H2 H2 SUT H3 H3 H3 Alpha H3T H3T H3T Alpha a = Automatic transmission 6.2L V-8 8,200 6.2L V-8 8,200 3.7L I-5 4,500 (a) 3.7L I-5 3,000 (m) 5.3L V-8 6,000 3.7L I-5 4,400 (a) 3.7L I-5 2,900 (m) 5.3L V-8 5,900 m = Manual transmission

L AND ROVER
Land Rover LR2 Land Rover LR3 Range Rover Range Rover Range Rover Sport Range Rover Sport x = Trailer brakes required 3.2L I-6 4.4L V-8 4.2L V-8 4.4L V-8 4.2L V-8 SC 4.4L V-8 SC 3,500 (x) 7,716 (x) 7,716 (x) 7,716 (x) 7,716 (x) 7,716 (x)

HYUNDAI
Entourage Santa Fe 2WD Santa Fe 2WD Santa Fe 4WD Santa Fe 4WD Tucson Veracruz (all) x = Trailer brakes required 3.8L V-6 3,500 2.7L V-6 2,000 (x) 3.5L V-6 2,000 (x) 2.7L V-6 2,000 (x) 3.5L V-6 2,000 (x) 2.7L V-6 2,000 (x) 3.8L V-6 3,500 (t) t = Tow package required

LEXUS
RX 350 RX 400h (hybrid) GX 470 LX 570 3.5L V-6 3.3L V-6 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 3,500 3,500 6,500 8,500

INFINITI
QX56 2WD QX56 AWD FX35 FX50 5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 3.5L V-6 5.0L V-8 9,000 8,900 2,000 3,500

LINCOLN-MERCURY Mariner 2.5L I-4 3,500 (t) Mariner 3.0L V-6 3,500 (t) Mountaineer 2WD 5 pass. 4.0L V-6 5,295 Mountaineer 2WD 5 pass. 4.6L V-8 7,220 Mountaineer AWD 5 pass. 4.0L V-6 5,000 Mountaineer AWD 5 pass. 4.6L V-8 7,055

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Mountaineer 2WD 7 pass. Mountaineer 2WD 7 pass. Mountaineer AWD 7 pass. Mountaineer AWD 7 pass. Navigator 2WD Navigator L 2WD Navigator 4WD Navigator L 4WD t = Tow package required

4.0L V-6 4.6L V-8 4.0L V-6 4.6L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8 5.4L V-8

5,205 7,135 5,000 6,970 8,950 8,850 8,750 8,475

Titan KC 4WD Titan CC 2WD Titan CC 4WD Titan Longbed CC 2WD Titan Longbed CC 4WD Xterra

5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 4.0L V-6

9,400 9,400 9,400 9,300 9,100 5,000

PONTIAC
Torrent 3.4L V-6 3,500

MAZDA
B-2300 Reg Cab 2WD B-4000 4WD B-4000 4WD CX7 (all) CX9 (all) Tribute a = Automatic transmission i = 4.10:1 axle ratio 2.3L I-4 2,260 (a,i) 4.0L V-6 3,140 (m,i) 4.0L V-6 5,600 (a,i) 2.3L TC 2,000 (a) 3.7L V-6 3,500 (a,t) 3.0L V-6 3,500 (a,t) m = Manual transmission t = Towing package required Cayenne

PORSCHE
All 7,716

SAAB
9-3 (all) 9-5 (all) 9-7X 9-7X 9-7X (all) (all) 4.2L I-6 5.3L V-8 6.0L V-8 3,500 3,500 5,600 6,500 6,500

MERCEDES-BENZ
G550 G55 AMG GL320 BlueTEC GL450 GL550 ML320 BlueTEC ML350 ML550 ML63 AMG 5.5L V-8 5.4L V-8 3.0L TD V-6 4.6L V-8 5.5L V-8 3.0L TD V-6 3.5L V-6 5.5L V-8 6.3L V-8 7,000 7,000 7,500 7,500 7,500 7,200 7,200 7,200 7,200 VUE Outlook

SATURN
All V-6 3.6L V-6 3,500 4,500

SUBARU
Tribeca Forester Outback Outback t = Tow package required 3.6L H6 3500 (t) 2.5L H4 2400 (x) 2.5L H4 2,700 3.0L H6 3,000 x = Trailer brakes required

MITSUBISHI Outlander 2WD 3.0L V-6 2,000 Outlander 4WD 3.0L V-6 3,500 Endeavor 3.8L V-6 3,500 Raider Dbl. Cab 2WD 3.7L V-6 4,050 (a4,f) Raider Dbl. Cab 2WD 3.7L V-6 4,350 (a4,h) Raider Dbl. Cab 4WD 3.7L V-6 3,850 (a4,f) Raider Dbl. Cab 4WD 3.7L V-6 4,150 (a4,h) a4 = Automatic transmission, four speed f = 3.55:1 axle ratio h = 3.92:1 axle ratio NISSAN
Armada 2WD Armada 4WD Frontier KC XE 2WD Frontier KC SE, LE, Nismo 2WD Frontier KC SE, LE, Nismo 4WD Frontier CC SE, LE, Nismo 2WD Frontier CC SE, LE, Nismo 4WD Murano Pathfinder Pathfinder Quest Titan KC 2WD 5.6L V-8 5.6L V-8 2.5L I-4 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 3.5L V-6 4.0L V-6 5.6L V-8 3.5L V-6 5.6L V-8 9,100 9,000 3,500 6,500 6,300 6,300 6,100 3,500 6,000 7,000 3,500 9,500

SUZUKI
Grand Vitara Grand Vitara XL7 2.4L I-4 3.2L V-6 3.6L V-6 3,000 3,000 3,500

TOYOTA
4Runner 2WD 4Runner 4WD 4Runner 2WD 4Runner 4WD FJ Cruiser Highlander Highlander Highlander Hybrid Land Cruiser RAV4 RAV4 Sienna Sequoia 2WD SR5 Sequoia 2WD Ltd Sequoia 4WD SR5 Sequoia 4WD Ltd Sequoia 2WD SR5 Sequoia 2WD SR5 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.0L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.3L V-6 5.7L V-8 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 3.5L V-6 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5,000 5,000 7,300 7,000 5,000 2,000 5,000 (t) 3,500 8,500 2,000 3,500 (t ) 3,500 6,300 6,200 6,000 5,600 8,300 10,000 (t)

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09

O W I N G 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 2.7L I-4 2.7L I-4 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.0L V-6 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8

U I D E 8,200 9,500 (t) 8,100 9,100 (t) 8,000 9,600 (t) 7,900 9,100 (t) 7,800 8,800 (t) 3,500 3,500 5,000 6,500 (t) 5,000 6,500 (t) 5,100 5,000 4,800 7,000 8,500 (t) 6,900 8,400 6,900 8,400 (t) 10,500 (t) 6,600 8,100 (t) 10,800 (t) 7,000 8,500 (t) 6,700 8,200 (t) Tundra Double Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra Double Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra Reg. Cab 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab 4WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 4WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 4WD Tundra Double Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra CrewMax 2WD Tundra CrewMax 4WD Tundra CrewMax 2WD Tundra CrewMax 4WD t = Tow package required 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 4.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 5.7L V-8 6,900 8,400 (t) 6,600 8,100 10,800 10,400 8,600 10,600t 10,500t 8,300 10,300t 10,200 7,700 (t) 8,000 (t) 10,400 10,100

Sequoia 2WD Ltd Sequoia 2WD Ltd Sequoia 2WD Platinum Sequoia 2WD Platinum Sequoia 4WD SR5 Sequoia 4WD SR5 Sequoia 4WD Ltd Sequoia 4WD Ltd Sequoia 2WD Platinum Sequoia 2WD Platinum Tacoma Reg. Cab Tacoma Access Cab/X-Runner Tacoma Access Cab 2WD/4WD Tacoma Access Cab 2WD/4WD Tacoma Double Cab 2WD/4WD Tacoma Double Cab 2WD/4WD Tundra Reg. Cab Shortbed Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Shortbed 4WD Tundra Reg. Cab Shortbed 4WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 2WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra Reg. Cab Longbed 4WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 2WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 4WD Tundra Double Cab Shortbed 4WD

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Hitching Up
Selecting and maintaining the proper hardware are key to a pleasant towing experience
BY

JOEL DONALDSON

he process of buying a new travel trailer or fifth-wheel, like buying an automobile or some other complex, big-ticket item, is full of choices. What is supposed to be an enjoyable experience is filled with such tasks as negotiating a price, arranging financing, settling on a fair trade-in value for your old rig and choosing insurance, floorplans, dcor schemes and optional equipment. However, one of the most important choices may be considered an afterthought: namely, choosing the proper trailer hitch. Fortunately, selecting the right hitch isnt difficult, nor is its installation after locating a competent hitch shop, that is. Maintaining proper adjustment of the hitch on an ongoing basis is the real challenge, and it has a large bearing on the safety and enjoyment of trailer towing. Trailers are available in two different designs a travel trailer thats coupled to the rear of the tow vehicle by a conventional hitch ball, and a fifth-wheel trailer that utilizes a fifth-wheel (or gooseneck) hitch mounted in the truck bed, cen-

tered over the rear axle. The hitching methods are as different as the trailers and require specific knowledge by the installer and trailer owner.

Conventional Hitches
All hitches are rated by their respective manufacturers to safely handle up to a specific gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr), which is the weight of the trailer with full water and LP-gas cylinders and all supplies aboard. Several weight classes exist for hitches designed for towing conventional travel trailers. Weight-carrying hitches are intended for lighter trailers because the entire trailers hitch weight is carried on the ball and transferred to the rear axle of the tow vehicle, whereas loaddistributing hitches are designed to distribute the trailers hitch weight to all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, making larger, heavier trailers with considerably higher hitch weights towable without destabilizing the tow vehicle. A travel trailer with ideal weight distribution
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will have a minimum hitch weight of about 10 percent of the gross weight, and the maximum can range upward to 15 percent providing it does not violate the rating of the hitch. Except for the lightest folding trailers, hitches

Weight Carrying
Class I Class II Class III Class IV Class V 200-lb HW, 2,000-lb gvwr 350-lb HW, 3,500-lb gvwr 500-lb HW, 5,000-lb gvwr 750-lb HW, 7,500-lb gvwr 1,200-lb HW, 12,000-lb gvwr

Weight-Distributing

Class IV 1,200-lb HW, 12,000-lb gvwr Class V 1,400-lb HW, 14,000-lb gvwr HW=Hitch Weight

rated Class II and higher are used for recreational towing, and they use a receiver bolted to the tow vehicles frame. The hitch receiver which may have box dimensions of 114 inches square, 2 inches square or 212 inches square, with larger boxes for higher load ratings accepts a slide-in ball mount (or draw bar), which is secured with a pin. Besides serving as the trailer/receiver attachment point, the ball mount also is used in varying heights (known as drop) to couple the trailer in a level fashion (frame parallel to the road surface), which is desirable for best stability and trailer-brake performance. Some ball mounts are fixed, while others are adjustable. Ball mounts used for weight-carrying hitches are quite different than those used for load distributing. Need for weight-distributing hitches

Blue Ox hitch

Equal-i-zer hitch

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varies with tow-vehicle type and trailer weight. A trailer with 350 pounds of hitch weight may present no challenge for a stiffly sprung, longwheelbase 34-ton pickup, while it may destabilize a softly sprung compact SUV. In general, a weight-distributing hitch will improve stability in most situations because weight resting on a hitch ball (when a weight-carrying hitch is used) loads the rear axle excessively by placing all of the hitch weight on that axle in addition to weight that is transferred from the front axle to the rear in a see-saw lever action. Because many receivers are usable in either weight-carrying or weight-distributing configurations depending on the ball mount the receivers manufacturer may list both ratings. Weight-distributing hitches should be used in many weight situations of Class II, and in most situations of Class III and above. Unlike their weightcarrying counterparts, these hitches typically use a much heavier ball mount (thats adjustable in height), plus a pair of spring bars that provide the leverage needed to distribute weight fore and aft.

Adjusting the Hitch


After having a load-distributing hitch of proper weight rating installed, owners may take the rest for granted, which can be a costly error because an improperly adjusted load-distributing hitch can contribute to trailer sway, which is a very undesirable handling trait. For more detailed information about weight-distributing hitches, see the article, Tending with Bars in the February 2008 issue of Trailer Life. The keys to happy towing are proper ball height and proper load (tension) on the spring bars. When all aspects are correct, the tow vehicle and the trailer are at proper ride height, which in most cases is level. One exception will be described later. Proper hitch adjustment helps prevent rear-axle overloading and improves braking and steering response.

Evaluating the proper adjustment of a load-distributing hitch is relatively simple: The tow vehicle should maintain the same attitude before hitching that it does after hitching, measured at reference points at the front and rear bumpers. If it is level before hitching, it should be level afterward, although slightly lower due to the addition of hitch weight. Level attitude means adequate load is placed on the spring bars to distribute portions of the hitch weight equally to the front and rear axles. If the rear of the tow vehicle sags after hitching, then the spring-bar loading isnt adequate. The exception to level attitude: If the tow vehicle is a stiffly sprung pickup and the rear of the truck is higher than the front, that attitude should be maintained after hitching. Such trucks often will carry heavy loads without the need for weight-distributing hitches and without sagging. But care must be exercised here. Although the truck may not look like its sagging visually, the hitch weight carried by the rear axle may still create an unstable situation. If the trailer is not level after spring bars have been adjusted to create the proper tow-vehicle attitude, the ball height should be corrected. Trailer sway can be a problem if trailer balance or hitch adjustment are not correct because the trailer has steering leverage on the tow vehicle by virtue of being connected to the tow vehicle 3 or 4 feet behind the rear axle. With correct hitching, trailer balance may be a problem if the hitch weight is less than 10 percent of gross weight. It should be more than 10 percent (we recommend a minimum of 11 percent) for best stability. Even with a well-balanced trailer and a properly adjusted hitch, use of a sway-control device is highly recommended. Often called sway bars (not to be confused with anti-roll bars fitted to axles of tow vehicles), sway-control devices are designed to damp rotation of the coupler on the hitch ball. They improve the handling characteristics of the trailer/tow vehicle combination whether the hitch

PullRite 70-Degree hitch

Draw-Tite W-D hitch

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To improve rear-view visibility and to aid in hitching up, the available Reverse Camera System in the Ford F-150 uses a camera mounted in the tailgate (below, right) to produce a real-time visual display in the interior rearview mirror (pictured). When ordered with the available advanced VoiceActivated Navigation System, the visual is displayed on the Navigation Systems screen.

method is weight-carrying or weight-distributing. Sway-control devices are available in two different configurations, the most popular of which is one that employs a steel bar, attached to the ball mount, that is encased in a rail or tube attached to the trailer A-frame. Inside the rail or tube is friction material that is clamped against the steel bar. Any pivoting of the trailer coupler on the bar causes the bar to slide within the rail, creating drag and damping sway. On larger trailers, its often possible to use a pair of frictiontype units for additional sway control. One popular hitch, the Equal-i-zer, includes a friction feature in the hitch design in that the tips of spring bars create friction on trailer-frame brackets. Cam-type sway units work by modifying the operation of the spring bars on a weightdistributing hitch. As the trailer turns, a cam increases the tension on one of the bars, creating a force that tends to pull the trailer back into a straight line. The harder the trailer turns, the stronger this self-centering force becomes. Since this scheme relies on spring-bar tension, its generally most effective on trailers with relatively high hitch weights (e.g., trailers requiring considerable spring-bar tension). The Hensley Arrow and Pulliam Enterprises PullRite hitch systems offer different approaches to controlling sway. The Hensley unit prevents sway through use of trapezoidal hitch linkages that make the tow vehicle and trailer act as a single unit, with no pivoting of the coupler on the ball unless the tow vehicle turns. Thus, during typical highway travel the tow vehicle and trailer are connected as nonarticulated vehicles, and tend to function as a single unit. Even so, there is no restriction on the tow vehicles capability for turns. The PullRite, in effect, moves the hitch pivot point to a location immediately aft of the tow vehicles rear axle, dramatically reducing the leverage the trailer can exert on the tow vehicle.
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Fifth-Wheel Hitches
Fifth-wheel towing is a different story altogether. The trailers kingpin serves as the pivot point for the fifth-wheel hitch, which is centered slightly ahead or above the trucks rear axle. The trailers kingpin slides into the hitch head, where it is secured by latching jaws or some other mechanism. This head is attached to a support base, which transfers the towing forces to the truck frame. The design prevents the trailer from having any steering effect on the tow vehicle, and is what gives fifth-wheel trailers such good road manners. Wind gusts and road irregularities have little to no effect on tow-vehicle stability. Most hitches are secured to the bed with a pair of mounting rails, while other underbed systems leave the truck bed flat after the hitch is removed. Most removable systems use permanently mounted rails with pins to secure the hitch head. The underbed style of fifth-wheelhitch mount is completely different in that the entire hitch mechanism is removed by simply pulling a lever in the wheel well. PullRite also uses an underbed system with removable connection pins. Some systems, where the hitch saddle and support base can be removed separately, make it easier on the back when lifting the hardware. Many fifth-wheel heads are mounted so they tilt fore and aft; however, having only the foreand-aft pivot restricts side-to-side movement. Some hitches have heads that pivot in multiple directions, allowing the pinbox to move in

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Hitch removal while the fifth-wheel is in storage is a common problem. Hensley Manufacturing solves this dilemma with its BD3 Air-Ride hitch, which allows for full use of the pickup bed. First, the heavy-duty hitch head is easily removed. Next, the main unit is lifted from the truck rails and ready for storage.

any direction with respect to the pickup, while still maintaining a tight mechanical connection. This also makes it easier to hitch or unhitch the trailer on uneven ground. Another strategy for improving trailer-truck flexibility involves the use of air springs as part of the hitch design. Typically, the hitch is suspended on multiple bladder-type air bags, which support most of the trailers kingpin weight. Aside from providing considerable articulation, these bags are also capable of smoothing out much of the road shocks and vibration that would otherwise be transmitted from the trailer to the tow vehicle. Adjustments to the system can be accomplished by varying the amount of air pressure in the bags. Other air-suspension hitches use a hinged pivot arm and a single airbag setup to provide truck-to-trailer impact damping while the hitch head mechanism provides the side- and for/aft head tilting. Shortbed pickups are now more popular than ever, particularly among extended-cab models. However, a short bed often causes complications when using the truck for towing a fifth-wheel because the proper hitch-mounting location is far enough forward to cause trailer-to-cab collisions during sharp turns. Installing an extended pinbox provides a workable solution with smaller trailers with modest pin weights; however, owners should first check with the pinbox manufacturer before adding any extension. For larger units, one solution is a conventional hitch that can be manually unlocked and moved aft on a special set of rails before making tight turns. PullRite offers a hitch that performs this motion automatically, returning to the forwardtowing position after the turn is completed. Rearward travel can be as much as 22 inches for some models, which is generally adequate for

accommodating 102-inch-wide trailers. Turns as tight as 90 degrees are possible in some cases. Maximum weight ratings for fifth-wheel hitches range up to 25,500 pounds gross weight, with as much as 25 percent of it on the hitch (most fivers have 20 percent hitch weight or less), and its best to choose a unit that not only will handle the trailer it will be used to tow, but also any possibility of a larger trailer, although a higher-rated hitch will cost more and will be slightly heavier. Whether while towing a conventional trailer or a fifth-wheel, the use of a properly rated hitch, adjusted correctly, will ensure a safe and pleasant towing experience. q

AL-KO Kober Corporation, (909) 5915359, www.rbwindustries.com. Automatic Equipment Manufacturing, (888) 425-5382, www.aemfg.com. B&W Truck Beds Inc., (800) 248-6564, www.turnoverball.com. Draw-Tite Hitches, (866) 308-9054, www.drawtite-hitches.com. Equal-i-zer Hitch, (800) 478-5578, www.equalizerhitch.com. Hensley Manufacturing. Inc., (800) 4106580, www.hensleymfg.com. MOR/ryde International, (574) 2931581, www.morryde.com. Pulliam Enterprises, (877) 785-5748, www.pullrite.com. Reese Division, Cequent Towing Products, (800) 326-1090, www.reeseproducts.com. Trailair, (800) 998-4238, www.trailair.com. TrailerSaver Air Ride Hitches, (800) 4106580, www.trailersaver.com.

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Hensley Cub

A Hitch For All Reasons


W
hether youre towing a travel trailer or a fifthwheel, Hensley Manufacturing offers a variety of hitches designed to smooth out the ride. The Hensley Arrow (for travel trailers between 5,000 and 14,000 pounds) and new Hensley Cub (for travel trailers between 2,000 and 6,000 pounds) are hitch/sway-control devices that permanently mount to your travel trailers Aframe, eliminating the need for lifting and storing heavy components. These hitches are designed to allow the trailer to track behind the tow vehicle safely by utilizng a unique linkage system. The linkage system also creates the effect of moving the hitch point closer to the rear axle, so the tow vehicles steering input doesnt exaggerate the trailers lateral movement resuting in increased stability (no sway) while towing. For fifth-wheels, Hensleys TrailerSaver hitches are designed to eliminate both up/down and fore/aft shock in the hitch pin, truck and trailer. Among the many models offered by Hensley, the new BD3 Air-Ride hitch fits into standard slotted fiver rails, and is designed for easy installation and removal from the truck bed. The BD3 breaks down into two separate pieces (see page 35) to make lifting and storage a snap. Also new is the TS3, which is based on Hensleys popular TSLB hitch. The TS3 fits into standard slotted hitch rails and has been specifically designed for 34 to 1-ton trucks. The TS3 features an operating height of 14 inches and can handle fivers with a pin weight up to 4,500 pounds and an overall weight of up to 20,000 pounds. Hensleys TrailerSaver hitches all feature a new Smart-Air system that automatically inflates the air bags to the users desired level of comfort. q
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Hensley Arrow

TrailerSaver TS3

TrailerSaver BD3

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Trailer-Brake Control
Technological advances help smooth out the process and improve safety and reliability
BY

CHUCK HAMMOCK vehicles brake system to an electric signal used to activate the trailers brakes directly proportional to hydraulic pressure in the vehicles braking system. A significant factor in elimination of this system was the advent of ABS because vehicle manufacturers cautioned against tapping into the hydraulic system. The controllers displaced a small amount of brake fluid, and with ABS systems, brake-cylinder volume was more limited, so manufacturers warned not to add controllers that displaced more than 0.02 cubic inches. The tap-in could not occur downstream of the ABS mechanism, so the pressure was on to devise alternate systems. Electronics were the answer, and many different types of aftermarket brake controllers were developed none tied in with the tow vehicles hydraulic system, however. Even in the old days of hydraulic/electric controllers, all were sold in the aftermarket, until Ford became the first to offer a trailerbrake actuation system installed at the factory.

lectric-brake systems have been employed for several decades on most trailers that have any significant weight. Each trailer with electric brakes, in turn, also requires that the tow vehicle be fitted with a brake controller. For years, brake-controller choices have been extensive all aftermarket and all electronic but Ford changed the game in 2005 with the first trailer-brake-control (TBC) system included as an integral part of the design of the tow vehicles design. Ford continues to up the ante, as the TBC is now included in the F-150, making the popular pickup the first in its class to have an integrated brake control. As always, the TBC synchronizes vehicle and trailer brakes for seamless braking (even under heavy load) to provide added driving control and confidence. GM has followed suit, now offering a built-in control on select vehicles. Until the advent of anti-lock brake systems (ABS), most brake controllers were tapped directly into the hydraulic lines of the tow vehicles onboard hydraulic-braking system. They were often described as hydraulic/electric brake controllers, as they converted hydraulic pressure in the tow

Fords Braking System


As Ford was first to offer a factory-installed brake controller into the tow vehicle, lets look at
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the system. Fords integrated controller (see the diagram, right) electronically tracks hydraulic pressure inside the vehicles master cylinder and uses the pressure, along with vehicle speed, to modulate the amount of current produced for trailer brakes. Thus, the system accurately follows tow-vehicle braking more at high pedal pressure, less at low even to the point of using ABS. If the wheels of the tow vehicle are slipping, ABS goes into action for the tow vehicle as well as the trailer. The Ford system doesnt give the trailer the same functions and characteristics of true ABS, but when the trucks ABS is activated, the trailer-brake application is reduced to avoid wheel lockup just as with true ABS. A dash monitor indicates the level of trailer braking, and a manual override is provided so the trailer brakes can be applied independently of tow-vehicle brakes. The system cannot be retrofitted to earlier Ford models, and aftermarket controllers still must be used for most other vehicles, so the demand for those aftermarket controllers remains quite large. Accordingly, its helpful to understand whats out there, and how to make a good choice. In essence, all electronic brake controllers fall into two general categories: timer-based brake controllers and inertia-based proportional brake controllers. All brake controllers generate an output signal to a trailer-brake system when a user first touches the tow vehicles brake pedal or activates the brake controllers manual control if so equipped. What happens next varies greatly, depending on whether youre using a timerbased or proportional brake controller. While most manufacturers will identify their proportional brake controllers as such, you usually wont see the words timer-based in the literature for a nonproportional brake controller. Instead, marketers will sometimes advertise timer-based controllers as having the advantage of requiring no leveling, but even that idea is confusing. Several proportional brake controllers do not require leveling. Timer-based controllers are also touted as being microprocessoroperated, but all brake controllers contain a processor of some kind. Even the most sophisticated timer-based microprocessor doesnt deter38 | 2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide

mine how hard you are braking, only how long youve been braking. A good rule of thumb is that if it doesnt say the word proportional somewhere in the literature, its probably a timerbased brake controller.

Timer-Based vs. Proportional


A timer-based brake controller has a timer that generates an output signal for your RVs brakes that increases with the amount of time you keep your foot on the brake pedal. It doesnt know whether youre braking gently on a gradual downhill grade, or if youre in a panic stop. The rate of increase in output (the slope of the voltage ramp) has no bearing on pedal effort, but can usually be adjusted for braking aggressiveness. An inertia-based proportional controller generates an output that is, as the name suggests, directly proportional to your braking needs. Most proportional brake controllers measure the tow vehicles rate of deceleration by means of a pendulum. The quicker you slow, the farther the pendulum is displaced, via inertia, from its at-rest position. This creates an electric signal to your trailers brakes that is proportional to your deceleration rate. Tekonsha and its sister companies use a series of LEDs and photoelectric detectors in their proportional controllers to determine the position of the displaced pendulum, and therefore determine the deceleration rate. Hayes-Lemmerz uses the Hall effect, a physics principal involving moving magnets, to determine the pendulums position. All pendulum controllers are subject to some inaccuracies, as the pendulum can tilt slightly forward or backward on steep grades. Most such controllers employ a damping device to stabilize the

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Hensley TruControl sensor against vibrations, and the damper helps reduce the effect of the fore-or-aft-tilt problem. The pendulums position is adjusted through the level-control knob, which allows the pendulum to be oriented to a true vertical resting position to compensate for the angle of the brakecontroller body (the leveling referred to in some timer-based-controller advertising). The level adjustment also allows the driver to pitch the pendulum slightly forward or aft of its normal resting position to set up the trailer so its braking is aggressive or delayed. Most drivers prefer some braking effect from the trailers brakes on the initial touch of the brake pedal, and adjust the brake controller accordingly to provide this so-called threshold voltage. This adjustment produces some output (typically 2 volts), without the initial time period having passed or deceleration having occurred in the two electric brake-controller types. This time period, or deceleration event, is normally needed to activate the timer-based controller or the proportional pendulum-based controller, respectively. With dozens of different models of brake controllers on the market, many RVers may find the selection of the right controller difficult without some form of guidance. While budgetary considerations may force a user into one category of controller, this is a critical system where pinching pennies may not be advisable. When faced with the need for a panic stop, most drivers want a controller that will respond in proportion to their braking needs at that moment. Keep in mind that a timer-based controller cant respond in this manner, as its output is fixed for a certain timed duration. Among more recent developments, accelerometers are being used to measure braking force. Tekonsha has embraced this technology in its Prodigy brake control, and U.S. Gear uses it in the companys system intended for vehicles towed behind motorhomes. Hensley Manufacturing also uses accelerometers in its high-tech TruControl trailer brake control.

Tekonsha P3

Getting Wired
Critical to every successful brake-controller installation is the proper tow-vehicle wiring. While you should carefully follow the manufacturers recommendations, there are certain common elements to almost every controller. A reliable power source is a priority, which may include a vehicle manufacturers built-in circuitry for an aftermarket brake controller. The main power line should be at least a 10 AWG wire from a circuit breaker at the fuse box, or the battery, to the brake controllers power-input connection (follow specific instructions for your controller). The circuit should continue from the controller, without any splices, and terminate at the seven-pin connector found at the rear of your tow vehicle. Most manufacturers advise against grounding the controller to the vehicles firewall, but recommend routing a 10 AWG (or larger) separate ground wire directly to the battery; the controller may not function properly if the ground connection is not made directly to the battery terminal. The other connection is made to the brakelight circuit, downstream of the brakelight switch mounted to the brake-pedal assembly, so the controller senses when the brakes have been activated. Later-model vehicles with towing packages have brake-control wiring bundled under the dash with a plug-in connector attached. A pigtail with the mating part of the connector is supplied with the vehicle and is ready for connection to the brake-control wiring. This setup avoids most of the complexity and possible mistakes with locating the correct wiring among that maze under the dash. Todays RVer has many choices in brake controllers from many manufacturers. Its important to carefully select the controller that is right for your needs and capable of handling the weight and number of axles on your trailer. Be sure to follow the manufacturers written instructions about every aspect of the brake controllers installation, operation, adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance. q
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Anatom
Whats in a Towing Package?
Overall packages vary by model, but here are some components that may be included: Hitch receiver 4- and/or 7-pin connector Larger alternator Larger battery Larger radiator Additional electric fan(s) Transmission-fluid cooler Engine-oil cooler Rear anti-sway bar Extendible mirrors Vehicle Dynamic Control Integrated brake controller Brake controller pre-wire Synthetic lubricants Lower axle ratio Re-valved shock absorbers

BY

J EFF JOHNSTON

here are many bells and whistles available when choosing a new tow vehicle, but theres one option that is an absolute necessity: The towing package. There are several good reasons for choosing factory-installed towing hardware. You have full warranty coverage on the equipment. It was designed by the best engineering minds at a major auto manufacturer, which is reassuring when considering the hardware is tying your truck and trailer safely together. Youll probably save money over the cost of aftermarket hardware. And perhaps best of all, use of the factory options means being ready for the road is a turnkey operation that calls for few or no trips to specialty shops after leaving the dealership. In many cases, you dont have a choice. If the vehicle is to be rated for its highest towing capacity, the towing-package option is mandatory to give the tow vehicle its optimum performance

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my of a Towing Package

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potential. For less-strenuous duty, the towing package is optional. Check the dealer literature to determine the content of the towing-package option. The following are some of the items you will likely encounter. Axle Ratio: Most packages include a lower (numerically higher) axle ratio; for example, a 3.73:1 or 4.10:1 instead of the 3.55:1 that comes with the stock vehicle. A lower ratio results in greater torque multiplication at the rear wheels, which means more power for towing. It also means the engine turns somewhat faster for a given road speed, but thats the tradeoff for improved towing performance. Hitch Receiver: If the tow vehicle already has a receiver, all you need to select is the proper ball mount and the associated hardware, such as a load-distributing hitch. The receiver will be properly matched to the tow vehicles trailer-towing rating, so you neednt worry about any hitchoverloading situations as long as you pay attention to the numbers. Youll also avoid interference problems with the exhaust pipe(s), the fuel tank and the spare tire. Wiring Package: The wiring package is a group of color-coded pigtails near the back bumper thats ready for installation of the trailer-plug receptacle. It can be as complete as a plug or two installed out back, or a pre-wired pigtail for brake-control installation under the dash and full integration with the tow tow vehicles electric system.
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Alternator: It takes extra charging current to keep a trailers battery(ies) charged in addition to handling the electrical-power needs of the tow vehicle. The battery itself may also be larger. Heavy-Duty Suspension: The trailer and its hitch weight add load on the tow-vehicle suspension, so the normal reaction among dealership sales staff and buyers alike is to order the optional heavy-duty (HD) suspension, particularly when fifth-wheel towing is involved. In fact, when the trailer is a conventional ball-type trailer, its often best not to order a heavy-spring option if there is a choice (if the towing package does not include HD suspension) for trucks rated 8,600 pounds and above because stiff ride and the tendency of the rear springs to do some or most of the work of the load-distributing hitch can be the result. A stiff ride is a very common complaint among owners of 34-ton and one-ton pickups not towing fifth-wheels. A case can be made for not ordering an HD suspension even for fifth-wheel towing except in very high pin-weight situations opting instead to install auxiliary springs or air bags after delivery to support the pin weight (if necessary), which allows a more civilized ride on standard rear springs while not towing. Its necessary to compare the standard and optional rear-axle-weight ratings relative to the anticipated trailer pin weight. Its easy to upgrade rear suspensions after a truck is built, but nearly impossible to soften the ride of an oversprung truck without replacing the suspension.

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Fords folding mirrors require less space than conventional mirrors when folded, and offer a clear view of the side of the trailer when theyre extended for towing.

SUVs have enough of their body weight on the rear axle, so thats generally not an issue. Brake Control: Fords Super Duty was the original tow rig to offer a factory-installed brake controller, and GM followed suit the following year. Otherwise, towing packages usually include a trailer-wiring harness with a circuit for an aftermarket brake-control unit a very worthwhile component of the package. Stability Control: More manufacturers are now offering electronic stability control. Mirrors: Many towing packages offer mirrors

designed to be extended outward while towing trailers. Extra Cooling: The largest possible radiator, a larger transmission-oil cooler and often a power-steering-fluid cooler are essential parts of the usual HD cooling component of a towing package, and we advise that no tow vehicle should be ordered without them. These components will not only help the tow vehicle avoid overheating any vital functional parts, but they will also lead to longer troublefree component service life. q

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09

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Towing Tips
Plenty of practice and defensive driving skills lead to safe and enjoyable towing
BY

B RAD CLAYTON

owing a trailer is certainly not brain surgery, but it does represent a step up in complexity from driving a solo vehicle, requiring new awareness of combined vehicle length, trailer width, braking distance, turning characteristics and several other vital factors that must be considered while towing a trailer. Most of us drive trucks, SUVs or passenger cars daily, and graduate to RVs only occasionally. Thus, its always necessary to make a mental transition and try to keep the size and handling characteristics of the larger rig in mind. Allowing solo-vehicle habits to take over may result in a tendency to make turns too tightly, run over curbs, hit stationary objects such as overhanging tree limbs or to follow too closely.

Be Aware
The first towing precautions are those that precede towing matching the tow vehicle and trailer correctly, adhering to weight limits and making sure hitch selection and adjustment are correct, as described elsewhere in this guide. And its also important to refresh defensive driving skills. From there, the real fun begins. The combined length of tow vehicle and trailer, as well as the combined weight, must be in the forefront of your mind, right from the start. Maintaining extended following distances is one of the most important towing-related driving habits that initially is difficult to adhere to because we tend to fall into our typical driving habits.

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Even though trailer brakes may be functional, braking distances almost always are extended. Its also important to make lane changes carefully and slowly, and to allow extended distances for passing. High-quality, solidly mounted extendible mirrors with large reflective areas adjusted properly are also essential. Speedy traffic seems more tolerant of slow 18-wheelers than of slow RVs, which makes courtesy an important safety factor for RV owners because an irate driver trying to pass can be a serious safety threat; courtesy is not only the consideration of others, its a safety issue. Frequent monitoring of rearview mirrors is necessary; when a vehicle is tailgating and trying to pass, we should help by driving slightly to the right to give the other driver a better view of the road ahead, even if a passing opportunity does not exist at the time. We should use turnouts whenever possible and avoid following another vehicle so closely that a vehicle overtaking from the rear cannot return to the proper lane.

does not cause trailer-wheel lockup. Improper controller adjustment is a major cause of inadequate braking, so its wise to study the manufacturers instructions. Travel-trailer instability (fishtailing) should not occur in a well-balanced, wellhitched combination, but if it does, independent actuation of trailer brakes usually will bring the trailer back into line.

On the Right Track


All trailers require more space for turns, and travel trailers follow the tow-vehicle track more closely than do fifth-wheels, which track farther to the inside of a turn. There is need for continual awareness, which should eventually become secondnature after a modest amount of on-theroad experience. Fifth-wheel trailers are different to back than conventional trailers, and require more practice for someone accustomed to backing a conventional trailer. A well-used technique involves placing ones hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and moving it in the same direction the trailer is intended to go. Its more effective with travel trailers than with fifth-wheels, which often require more turning of the steering wheel. Handheld two-way radios can allow an assistant to more effectively relay backing instructions to the driver. Before each trip, its essential to check the tires to assure that inflation pressures match those molded on tire sidewalls (cold), or that they are appropriate for your load (consult both the tire and vehicle load/inflation tables). Also, be sure to inspect all vehicle fluids, per standard maintenance procedure during heavy-duty vehicle use cycles, and make sure trailer-wheel lug nuts are tightened to factory specifications. Trailering is a great way to explore the new horizons and a great way to check out the wonderful camping destinations that are available to owners of recreational trailers. But always keep in mind that defensive driving will pay off in safe travel. q
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Brake Time
While RV brakes are adequate for most situations, care is necessary to avoid overheating, which can lead to brake fade. If brake fade occurs, it will likely be on steep downgrades. If this happens, friction will raise the temperature of brake pads and linings to extremely high levels, resulting in temporary loss of braking. The cure is prevention, such as downshifting to a gear range that is low enough to retard speed sufficiently that brakes need not be used more than occasionally. This way, enough braking performance is reserved to make an emergency stop, should it become necessary. When braking on a grade is necessary, apply the brakes intermittently, with moderate pressure, and release the pedal to allow the brakes to cool. The action of electric trailer brakes should be apparent to the driver, and sufficient enough to handle the trailers weight. The controller should be adjusted so that maximum braking action

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46 | 2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide

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2009 TRAILER LIFE Towing Guide | 47

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