Max Tow Capacity - Brand Comparison

Skeld · September 26, 2016

I'm relatively new to the HD game, and I only have a 6.0 2500 so I don't really have a dog in the fight, but why has it been "ok" for GM to only have a max capacity of 23,200 pounds, while Ram and Ford are around 31,000 pounds? Aren't they kind of getting their butt kicked or am I missing something?

sdeeter19555 · September 26, 2016

I think you're comparing the ratings of a 2500 to a 3500...the 2500s are all around 20k pounds.

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Skeld · September 26, 2016

I think you're comparing the ratings of a 2500 to a 3500...the 2500s are all around 20k pounds.

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Right, I know, I'm just referring to the HD trucks in general. So diesel, DRW, 3500 trucks I assume...probably regular cab 4x2 trucks to get these numbers.

Debra in Cali · September 26, 2016

Yep the 3500 Duramax DRW "only" tows 23,000. So Ford and Ram can pull 31,000? What is the deal. If you really need to pull more than 11.5 tons why are you trying to do it with a passenger vehicle. Who needs to pull that much weight with a passenger vehicle? IMHO anything over that amount you should use a semi. Is there a weight limit that requires you to go through the weigh stations? No matter if you are pulling with a semi or a heavy duty truck.

sdeeter19555 · September 26, 2016

If you compare 3500 to 3500 and 2500 to 2500, they are all in the same ballpark.

If you are worried that a few hundred pounds is going to make or break you towing between one 3500 and another 3500, then you are splitting hairs as MOST people will never know exactly how much weight they are carrying or towing anyway...when was the last time you crossed a scale? It's a number...if it bothers you, buy the other brand.

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Also, keep in mind that 31k is likely a GCVW, not a trailer weight.

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Skeld · September 26, 2016

Ok, here are some figures.

redwngr · September 26, 2016

It'll be interesting to see how much GM's 2017 HD tow ratings get increased with the new motor.

LongrangeLauber · September 26, 2016

I think those numbers are for the 4500 and 5500 (or f450 and f550) chassis's, not the 3 series

newdude · September 26, 2016

All big tow ratings are useless unless you have a CDL in just about the entire US. Most states you can drive GVWR 26,000 or less with a standard license and some only allow a 26,000 GCWR or less cap if the GVWR is over 10,000lbs.

So, lets say for example. If you are in NY state, and have a D class (regular license) license, and you buy a 3500HD Duramax dually. GCWR is 31,100lbs. In NY, you can't legally tow full capacity with that truck with a standard license as it is over the 26,000 GCWR and over the 26,000 GVWR restrictions for a standard license. You would need a CDL to operate that truck legally. A 3500HD gas truck? Legal as GCWR is under 26,000lbs.

Skeld · September 26, 2016

Yes this is true. I actually do have a CDL but like I said, this is just more of a theoretical question as to why people don't care. Usually these things are like an arms race to some degree, important for marketing but maybe not much else.