OP's original post #1 he stated he was looking to get a trailer in the 17,000 to 18,000 pound (gross) range.
WRONG
re-read the post.
The truck might be RATED to pull that weight, but there is no way I could get such a trailer, and stay under 26k.
We now have a new truck, rated at 10k GVW and that leaves me with up to 16k in weight rating for a trailer. The combination will both have actual weight, and rated weight at or below 26k.
If you and duff want go go debate the CDL laws take it to another thread.