towing with a half ton truck
tocute2model18
Reg. Jan 2008
Posted 2008-01-04 10:47 AM (#73755)
Subject: towing with a half ton truck


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Posts: 2

Im trying to find out what weight of horse trailer i can pull with truck we have, its a 1994 GMC, heavy duty 1500 5.7L .  im looking to get  a gooseneck(dont know if that makes a difference on the weight i can tow) does anyone have any suggestions on what weight would be SAFE to tow?

 

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gard
Reg. Aug 2007
Posted 2008-01-04 11:22 AM (#73756 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck


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Posts: 5870
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Location: western PA

Your truck's owner's manual will specify how much weight your truck will tow. The pulling capabilities of each truck will vary according to the options with which your truck is equipped; IE: 2x4 or 4x4, short or long wheelbase, tyres, trailer towing package, motor, transmission etc

Generally speaking, a truck will handle a heavier gooseneck trailer than a bumper pull. But the maximum weights are determined by the manufacturer.

Another factor you should consider is the age and condition of your tow vehicle. It must have a good transmission oil cooler and radiator, the brakes and shocks will have to be up to date. The differential gear ratio will determine if the truck was built for transportation or work. The type of tyres that are presently installed, will effect its capabilities. The current mechanical condition of the engine and transmission is important to consider.

There are too many variables to tell you exactly how much weight your truck will handle until you catalog what your truck's equipment includes.

BOL  Gard

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mrstacticalmedic
Reg. Dec 2005
Posted 2008-01-04 3:18 PM (#73764 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck



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Location: Allegan, Michigan

They do make smaller two horse goosenecks with no dressing room.  That is about the size I would recommend for any half ton.  Under 3500 pounds.  I had a GN valley that weighed 2600.  They do make them, but you have to search long and hard for the light weight ones, and no DR.

Good luck with your search.  If you truly want to pull anything substantial get at least a 3/4 ton that has a tow package (heavier suspension, extra coolant system, etc).

 

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PaulChristenson
Reg. Jan 2007
Posted 2008-01-05 3:37 PM (#73809 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck


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Originally written by tocute2model18 on 2008-01-04 10:47 AM

Im trying to find out what weight of horse trailer i can pull with truck we have, its a 1994 GMC, heavy duty 1500 5.7L .  im looking to get  a gooseneck(dont know if that makes a difference on the weight i can tow) does anyone have any suggestions on what weight would be SAFE to tow?

 

What numbers did your operator's manual state?

 



Edited by PaulChristenson 2008-01-05 3:45 PM
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tocute2model18
Reg. Jan 2008
Posted 2008-01-06 7:36 AM (#73852 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck


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Posts: 2

we got it used and the owner before didnt give us a owners manual. :(

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gard
Reg. Aug 2007
Posted 2008-01-06 11:28 AM (#73865 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck


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Posts: 5870
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Location: western PA

Perhaps someone on this forum has a similar truck and could provide a copy of a specifications page from their manual. You might consider contacting GM Inc, various truck forums or even Ebay for a copy of the manual.

Everything that concerns the capabilities of your truck is dependent on the manufacturer's limitations. This would include the registration, towing and pulling capabilities, even the approved tires and sizes.

The newer half ton vehicles have more capabilities than those of even a few years ago. It would be a mistake to try to equate the statistics of these with an older vehicle.

BOL  Gard



Edited by gard 2008-01-06 10:41 PM
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SHMANN
Reg. Aug 2006
Posted 2008-01-07 9:18 AM (#73915 - in reply to #73755)
Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck


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Posts: 121
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Location: Salem, CT
1994 Chevrolet C1500 Pickup (2WD) 5.7 V-8 7500
Requires 3.73:1 axle ratio.
Requires Z82 Trailering Special Package.
Requires automatic transmission.
Requires engine-oil cooler.
Requires transmission-oil cooler.
Requires weight-distributing hitch.
A higher tow rating is listed for pickups that tow fifth-wheel trailers.

This is off of www.trailerboats.com

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