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Old 05-10-2008, 12:47 PM   #5 (permalink)
Bird
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Join Date: Mar 2000
Location: Corinth, TX, USA
Posts: 22,293
Default Re: Reader's Digest - Truck Sizing

The basic, simple things to look for are the:

1. GVWR - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. That will tell you the maximum weight of the truck, fully loaded, passengers, and all.

2. Curb Weight. That will tell you what the empty truck weighs with fuel, oil, and coolant. Subtract that from the GVW to determine how much weight you can haul, including driver and passengers.

3. GCWR - Gross Combined Weight Rating. That tells you the maximum weight of the truck, its load, and any trailer of other vehicle being towed by the truck.

You can also look at the manufacturer's trailer towing guide that will show maximum recommended trailer weights for different models of truck and different drive trains; i.e., engine, transmission, differential gear ratios, etc., along with any special equipment required for those trailer weights, such as auxilliary transmission coolers, brake controllers, and weight distributing hitches.

The maximum trailer weights will probably be different for conventional, or bumper pull, trailers vs. gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailers.

You will also find, in addition to the trailer weights, the maximum tongue weight allowed for different hitches.

Have fun truck shopping.
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