Diamondpilot
Super Star Member
- Joined
- Jan 18, 2007
- Messages
- 16,326
- Location
- Daleville, IN
- Tractor
- Jinma 254/284 Ford 861 Powermaster at work
I think it boils down to weight of the vehicle and brakes not engine/tranny combo for tow ratings. At least in Ohio, you will not get sited for trailer/payload but how your load is secured is a factor. As long as you are under 26,000lbs I don't think anyone will stop you here. And that goes on perception if your truck and trailer aren't marked. Basically about any PU trailer combo if it looks reasonable will be OK. Besides I guarantee few officers now the difference between a 7K,12K or 14K trailer and they certainly don't know what your mfg CGWR is.
But I was comparing a gross difference between a small SUV and a 1ton truck. I realize the whole 3/4 thing is blurred now. Also remember I done the test with a new 1/2t ( supposed 10K tow rating) and my van. I think the mfg are full of crap. It ain't close IMO.
I can find all the info on any vehicle made in the last 10 years. I have a book that list all the info. For example in you case I would look up GM-Van-1 Ton-Engine-Tranny-2 wheel/4 wheel- then gear ratio and it will give me all the info including MAX tow rating. If I can get the info I am sure they can. I only get the book that deals with the last 10 years because thats what my customers drive but there is info books that go back way farther. I also have it as a file on my work computer that just has drag down menu's.
Indiana is just the same as Ohio. If it looks reasonable you will not get stopped. I have driven well over 150,000 miles towing in the last 12-15 years and never been stopped 1 single time. Granted, most of my towing is around Indiana, Ohio, Western PA, Kentucky, and Tennessee. I keep my trailer and truck looking nice which helps a lot (junk attracts attention), tie down my cargo, and make sure my tires and lights are up to snuff and they just let me blow on by.
Chris