Posted 2008-01-04 10:47 AM (#73755) Subject: towing with a half ton truck
New User
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?
Posted 2008-01-04 11:22 AM (#73756 - in reply to #73755) Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck
Expert
Posts: 5870 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.
Posted 2008-01-04 3:18 PM (#73764 - in reply to #73755) Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 362 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).
Posted 2008-01-05 3:37 PM (#73809 - in reply to #73755) Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck
Expert
Posts: 3853 Location: Vermont
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?
Posted 2008-01-06 11:28 AM (#73865 - in reply to #73755) Subject: RE: towing with a half ton truck
Expert
Posts: 5870 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.
towing with a half ton truck
