Many of today’s trucks are able to tow large trailers, boats, or other vehicles using quality tow hitches. However, the amount of weight that each one can carry varies widely. To keep your truck in quality condition and stay safe on the road, here’s what you should know about finding your vehicle’s towing capacity. 

Finding Your Vehicle's Towing Capacity

Towing capacity is the total amount of pounds your vehicle can tow behind it safely. Exceeding this number can damage the engine and transmission, since these parts were only designed with a limited weight range in mind. It may also make it difficult to brake or steer to safely avoid road hazards. 

Some trucks have their total towing capacities listed in the owner’s manual, but many don’t, since there are often variances even within a single truck class. If yours isn’t easily accessible, find your VIN and look up your vehicle on your manufacturer’s website to find your specific towing capacity. 

Other Factors to Consider

Towing capacity is generally calculated considering only one driver and no cargo in the actual vehicle, so if you have items or extra people in your truck, leave an extra margin when calculating how much weight you’ll be towing. Additionally, towing capacity takes into account the total weight of a trailer, including anything inside, so don’t just go by the trailer’s listed weight when deciding if it will work for your truck.

It’s also important to have the right tow hitches that can handle the amount of weight you plan to tow. For example, Class I hitches are generally only approved for small loads of around 2000 lbs. However, Class V hitches can tow up to 20,000 lbs. Avoid exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity even if you have a tow hitch that is approved for larger loads. 

If you’re planning to tow a trailer, boat, or other heavy loads this summer, Brad’s Trailer Supply in Rochester, NY has a huge array of tow hitches to suit your needs. The company supplies every available class, and even carries a large selection of trailer parts and accessories. Visit the website to browse available products, or call (585) 458-4498 to ask about specific items.