I have been looking at new trucks and have noticed that the Dodges have way lower towing capacity (rated) than the Chebby's anf Frod's. I am having a hard time talking my friend into buying one too because the Dodges arn't rated to pull a big 5th wheel. Personally, I don't care what the rated capacity is, I know the 6 speed is up to it. But he is a "by the numbers" kinda guy.

What is up with this towing capacity thing?

 

I think my 2003 auto is rated at 12,500. I believe the newer models are even higher. Rumor is the 2006 (with shorter warranty) will be rated around 16K. How much do you need?

 

The GCWR on my truck is 23K. How much I can tow is based on how much the truck weight is subtracted from the 23K. I can get my truck over 8K with all the extra stuff and junk that I think is necessary when I tow the 5er.

 

If your friend is looking at big 5th wheel trailers, he needs to be looking at DRW trucks.

The Dodge website has the 3500 reg cab DRW at about 15000lbs. With the 5th wheels, about 20-25% of the towed weight is pin weight.

 

I really hate to be in this position, but the Chubbies and Frods have much higher towing weights with single rear wheels.

I think the numbers must be goofed up or something, because the (4x4) Dodges have a much stronger looking chassis than the others. This is really bumming me....

 

Could be that Dodge is being realistic and GM & Ford are being optimistic.

 

Guys, I tow up to 35k with my dually all the time...over 100k miles so far a few ujoints ...tranny cool as cuke. Simple calculation is as above 23k minus truck. Truck is 8250 with hitch fuel, people, stuff. I got my truck rerated for 12k #. 4 tires at 3042# or so =12150 # on the truck, 6 tires 12k + 5k= 17k pounds tire capacity. Rear axle capacity is 9500 # or so Front is 5500 or so. Someone here has the exact #'s. If you tow heavy, go dual or go HP rims 19.5 or 16 for load range g. ks