Detroit Big 3 to Adopt common towing standard in 2015....

[Diamondpilot]

Maybe this would be a good forum to predict which truck and configuration will get the largest decrease in capacity. Ram and GM will be the only two who will have the same version using both calculations as Ford and Nissan will both introduce new models. Of the two, I think the Dodge Hemi's might actually increase, and the silverado's 11,500 lb claimed capacity of the 5.3 liter double cab truck will take the biggest hit.

I agree. The GM 5.3 was a pig compared to the competition in the Gauntlet Towing Test. The Hemi has the power but lacks the chassis and more importantly rear suspension for anthing more than 8K.

Chris

 

[jejeosborne]

I agree. The GM 5.3 was a pig compared to the competition in the Gauntlet Towing Test. The Hemi has the power but lacks the chassis and more importantly rear suspension for anthing more than 8K.

Chris

The Ram will be interesting because they can provide an air ride equipped truck that may perform well in the few areas requiring it in these tests. The acceleration tests with the 8-speed shouldn't be a problem.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I always buy the truck based on which truck (in the ads) is being driven in the wildest manner in the worst terrain, pulling the BIGGEST load, by the toughest looking dude with the most dirt and grime on his face, anyway!

Ads don't lie!

 

[jejeosborne]

I always buy the truck based on which truck (in the ads) is being driven in the wildest manner in the worst terrain, pulling the BIGGEST load, by the toughest looking dude with the most dirt and grime on his face, anyway!

Ads don't lie!

Girls in bikinis wouldn't sell you a truck? We have different tastes. LOL

 

[texasjohn]

Yeah, I go for vehicles flying thru the air with a fine print shadow underneath reading...don't do this, real people can't drive this and this is a road from/to nowhere.

I always buy the truck based on which truck (in the ads) is being driven in the wildest manner in the worst terrain, pulling the BIGGEST load, by the toughest looking dude with the most dirt and grime on his face, anyway!

Ads don't lie!

 

[Verticaltrx]

I hope they all get de-rated by a lot, the current tow ratings are both nonsensical and unsafe. The new Dodge 3500s are 'rated' to tow as much or more than our International 4700. In real world towing there is no comparison between the two. The 1-ton pickups might be faster with more power, but are severely lacking in tires, brakes, suspension, gearing and weight when compared with a medium-duty truck (which is what is truly designed to pull those types of loads).

 

[wmonroe]

I think it will be interesting, but I bet there won't be a big decrease in ratings, new trucks today are very capable in real world towing.

 

[Verticaltrx]

I think it will be interesting, but I bet there won't be a big decrease in ratings, new trucks today are very capable in real world towing.

They may be capable, but long lived or safe they are not.

 

[msmith1wa]

I would be more concerned with stopping and handling than HP.

 

[slowzuki]

Some mdts have low tow ratings for other reasons. With low gearing cutting off a driveshaft or axle shaft is a real possibility. I think there are a few different groups of people here - throwing an inexperienced driver into a 1 ton at max tow on a busy freeway with hills, merging and 70 mph traffic is not the same as an experienced driver travelling at 50 mph on secondary highways. The forces needed to control at low speeds are a small fraction of those needed at high speed.

I'd be happy to haul a 30,000 lb trailer with my f350 if you let me stay under 20 mph. Expect me to 70 mph and I'd want closer to 12-15k max if the road isn't too busy. Busy highway I don't like to tow at all, too many idiots that won't let you keep a safe following distance.