Safe towing margin
Thread Starter
CF Beginner
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 2
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Safe towing margin
i have a 2008 2500hd 6.0 , 3.73 Ext. Cab long bed 4wd with towing capacity listed at 9700#
what is the safe trailer weight. I have heard 80% but that was from a dealer so grain of salt.
what is the safe trailer weight. I have heard 80% but that was from a dealer so grain of salt.
CF Active Member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 163
Likes: 8
From: Virginia
I've used the following link to help calculate what I could safely tow:
Travel Trailer Weight Calculator
There should be a label on inside of the driver's door that has the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating). Should also have the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The dealer is correct in that it is recommended to factor in a 20% safety margin. Then allow another 10% for the tongue weight. The more blanks in the equation you can fill the more accurate the final towing figure.
Travel Trailer Weight Calculator
There should be a label on inside of the driver's door that has the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating). Should also have the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The dealer is correct in that it is recommended to factor in a 20% safety margin. Then allow another 10% for the tongue weight. The more blanks in the equation you can fill the more accurate the final towing figure.