I looked in my owners manual to review what the GROSS vechicle combined weight rating is for my 96 1500 4x4 ext cab short box. It claims 12 500lbs. Is this pretty accurate? I'm trying to calculate If im Towing safely in the right parameters. I feel like I am. The sticker on the door says the trucks GVWR is 6400lbs and my campers GVWR is 4300lbs . So I am just under the max so Im assuming I'm fine? Sometimes I throw a 4 wheelere in the box and feel like I may be pushing it.when I pick up the camper from storage I'm gonna hit the scales. Truck has 33s and 4.10 gears

 

Sounds about right. My 5spd is like 5k towing so if you have an auto it should be about 7k.

 

Tow ratings weren't that detailed in those pre-SAEJ2807 days. Does the manual break out automatic vs manual transmission and the different axle ratios ? Towards the end of the 2nd gens the 1500 quad cab 4x4 automatic was rated at 7200 lbs with the better gearing. The taller tires take some of that away, mainly it increases transmission load and decreases climbing ability. Weighing it is one part of the puzzle, but aside from weight trailer length and how it is loaded determines if it's safe or not. There plenty of examples of 30+ ft 8000 lbs travel trailers that just manhandle a half-ton truck in anything but perfect conditions.

 

And remember to keep the overdrive OFF when towing!

 

This is whag it says for gross COMBINED vechicle weight rating. I just want to make sure im safe towing my 1989 18 foot camper with a quad in the box. Dont want any fines

 

Yes sir correct !

 

ya I think I'm ok 🤷 just wish had better climbing power when hit the hills like a diesel

 

You will be fine. I towed 11k one time with my 98 1500 (would not recommend, had very good trailer brakes and perfectly balanced load). Other wise I used to tow 6000lbs frequently and easily, just make sure your trailer is balanced. My 98 Durango handled 7000lbs easily on many occasions, which was rated at 7300lbs.

 

That's pretty epic. Ya i was just concerned with the 650 pound 4 wheeler in the box while towing the camper. I've done it a couple times but just don't want any fines lol

 

Towing gets complicated as my state allowed you to over register a vehicle. My 2500 is registered so I can tow 18,000lbs legally