Check out BadStratRT's homepage article about Standardized tow rating testing. Is this good or bad?

 

It would be nice to have clear and objective data to compare. Nothing worse than bringing home that fancy new widget with claimed specifications only to be routinely disappointed since your real world operating conditions can't match the lab scenario your widget was tested in....

 

I am surprised this hasn't been done sooner. I ask why can't ALL vehicles that claim towing capacity have standardized testing if they aren't already (i.e. vans, wagons, etc.)

 

I think its good and just like JET I'm surprised it hasn't been standardized sooner. I'm curious as to how much it will affect the Big 3, especially in the 1-ton category.

Will this also have to be standard on like SUV's and such or just trucks?

 

Motor Trend did something like that back in 08 or 09. It just wasn't for max weight. They tested each of the 1/4 ton trucks available. I think they pulled 3500 lbs each. Tested: 0-60 time, 35-70 time, 70-0 time with notes on stability while doing it. I think they also tested stability at highway speed over different road types. They tested everything on flat roads and inclines, plus measured trans temp, break wear and mpg over the whole test.

 

Damn, I didn't even answer the question. It's a good idea. Worst case, you buy a truck with a crappy tow rating, but you already know that it has it! It would save you a lot of money on repairs. Manufacture says 9K lbs, you try 8k, only to find it will only handle 6k. There goes the transmission!!! (among other things)

 

This is the best idea for comparing trucks because lets face it FORD blows but they say they tow as much as they do.
HA well thats my opinion anyways. lol

 

I think it is a good thing because most are probably lying. Just because an engine makes the power to pull something, it also has to be a stable platform and have more than enough braking. All of this in long distances and in all conditions.
Remember the old Tundra ads that showed them towing over 11K lbs?
Now their highest rated tow rating is 10K.
There needs to be a set standard and maybe even a 3rd party involved in the rating.