Posted 2008-08-06 7:27 PM (#89156) Subject: Please help me understand these weights
New User
Posts: 3
Location: AB
Ok, this is what I have. 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Hemi, quad cab, also with a long box and 4x4, factory towing package. The GVWR says 8800 lbs, it also has front as 5200 and rear as 6000 lbs.
The reciever I have says GPCSS wt 6000 lbs
Tongue Weight 600 lbs.
I'm not sure what it all means. If I want to pull an old steel stock trailer with two or three horses in it, am I good or do I need a new reciever. Just not sure what all these #s mean?!? 45
Posted 2008-08-06 9:23 PM (#89163 - in reply to #89156) Subject: RE: Please help me understand these weights
Expert
Posts: 2453 Location: Northern Utah
As he said it's how much weight actually sits on the ball, This would be the trailer weight minus the weight that sits on the trailer tires.
The tow weight it has much the trailer weighs in total. Or how much weight you drag forward with the truck.
Another piece of the puzzle is how much weight your ball is rated for. A class II ball will not carry the same weight as a Class III. So even if your reciever is rated to carry the load, your stinger or ball mount and the ball must both be rated for an equal or greater capacity. You can look on the top of the ball to read it's rating.
Posted 2008-08-07 8:35 AM (#89181 - in reply to #89156) Subject: RE: Please help me understand these weights
Expert
Posts: 1391 Location: North of Detroit, MI
Here's some more help.
Your tongue weight, as described, is considered payload on your truck.
If your GVWR is 8800 pounds, that is your limit on total truck "weight". You need to know how much your truck weighs. Add the tongue weight to that, plus passengers and cargo. If that does not exceed 8800 pounds - then you are within specs for the truck.
Please help me understand these weights
