[KLS]

To add one thing to Ray's excellent postings...

Many folks add some type of helper springs to the rear of their truck when they tow a 5th wheel trailer. It might be an additional leaf in the spring pack, or air bags, or Timbren rubber springs, or a helper leaf like Roadmaster Active Suspension and others. These only level your truck...they do not increase the weight carrying capacity.

I feel that about 90% of GCWR is a prudent maximum towing capacity. The Gross Combined Weight Rating of my Tundra is 11,800#. 90% is about 10,600#. My empty truck weighs about 5200# with me, the Mrs., and the dogs. That leaves about 5400# for the loaded trailer and anything we carry in the bed. The problem I have with towing more weight is merging into busy traffic. That 1st to 2nd shift really puts the truck into a power hole.

You can carry a bit more, but I feel that operating any machinery at 100% of rated capacity increases repair cost and results in more breakdowns.

7200# towing capacity, huh? 11,800 - 7200 = 4600# for the truck. My V-8 4wd truck with just me, one dog, and the Roll-n-Lock bed cover weighs 5020# on a truck scale.


Ken