Outdoors
Sponsored by

Trailering Question

2,681 Views | 35 Replies | Last: 3 mo ago by frorge
frorge
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Howdy Gents, I'm asking for y'all opinion, flame away.

I'm purchasing a tractor and need to move it to my property.
I have a GMC 1500 with a listed GVWR of 7200 LBS. The trailer, tractor, and implements total weight about 9400 lbs. IF my truck had the 3.42 axle then it would be rated for 9100 lbs. Pulling with a tongue, truck has trailer package, and trailer has brakes.

I need to move the tractor about 35 miles on state highway road with speed limits that don't exceed 55 mph.

I understand that trailer weight far exceeds the capacity of my truck. But given the short distance and one time trip, my question is, do y'all think i'm good pulling it?
oh no
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
sorry; i'm no expert and actually in the market for a trailer and tractor myself.

maybe have the seller deliver it this first time with all the implements... you can cut weight and tow it back to a dealer for service without all the implements any other time in the future as needed. ??
Milwaukees Best Light
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Responsible me would find a friend or rent something more capable.

Real life me would just do it with what I have and drive real careful.
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Milwaukees Best Light said:

Responsible me would find a friend or rent something more capable.

Real life me would just do it with what I have and drive real careful.

This.

And where are you located?
frorge
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Middle Tennessee. I'm a traitor to my home state
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Oh, well... sorry. I can't help you there.
MouthBQ98
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
It'll be fine. Just drive appropriately and conservatively. These things have a significant margin of error in design. It's not something I would do every day but occasionally it's no big deal.
Deerdude
How long do you want to ignore this user?
If it were me I'd do it. Don't push anything and load tractor with slight tongue weight in mind but let trailer axle carry most of the weight.
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Just be aware that the most difficult part is going to be stopping the trailer. Be smart about it... keep way more distance than you typically would from cars in front of you, anticipate other cars pulling out in front of you, start slowing down way before you typically would, etc.
ChoppinDs40
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
That's a ton of weight on your bumper.

Really need a WDH hitch as I'm sure your receiver hitch is likely a class 3 or 4 meaning no more than 1000lbs on the hitch. 10k lbs load is going to be difficult to balance to not put that much on the receiver hitch.

As others have said, the the weight on the axels of the trailer and go really damn slow and leave lots of space.
El Gato Charro
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
I exceed weight all the time. At those speeds it will be fine. Drive slowly.
KALALL
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Just make sure your trailer axels can handle the weight. The truck will be fine.
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
KALALL said:

Just make sure your trailer axels can handle the weight. The truck will be fine.

This is a good point. You can't be rolling out there with a utility trailer with a single 3500lb axle and make this work.
frorge
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Trailer is good. 20' dual axle rated for 12,000. Thats half the problem, she's a heavy girl.
Y'all have convinced me to go for it. I'll stop being a *****, go slow, give lots of space.
Deerdude
How long do you want to ignore this user?
Being prudent is not being *****.
Safe trip
BlueSmoke
How long do you want to ignore this user?
Hilly? Up and down even small hills would be spicy. As stated, it's not the starting, it's the stopping with that weight.
Nobody cares. Work Harder
WheelinAg
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
You didn't state the year of truck, but if it has a tow/haul mode, obviously use that. If not, take the truck out of overdrive.

Hoosegow
How long do you want to ignore this user?
I'm confused. Your GVWR is 7,200. That means, without a trailer, you should be able to safely drive that vehicle loaded with crap in the back that weighs 7,200 (total weight or truck plus all cargo).

You are pulling a total of 9,400, correct? And you have the trailer package (which usually means set up with a receiver and light/brake plug. Sometimes there are some transmission changes when you switch it on. A quick google search came up with this for a 2020:

The towing capacity of the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 varies based on the engine and configuration. Here are the key towing capacities:
  • 6.2L V8 engine: Up to 12,100 lbs with the Max Trailering Package.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 5.3L V8 engine: Ranges from 9,300 to 11,300 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 2.7L Turbo I4 engine: Ranges from 6,500 to 6,900 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 4.3L V6 engine: Ranges from 7,400 to 7,900 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel: Ranges from 7,300 to 9,100 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2

    For the most accurate towing capacity, always refer to your vehicle's manual or contact your local dealer.
Look at the information plate on your driver's side door. As long as you have at least the 5.3, I wouldn't sweat 9400. Don't haul mule and I wouldn't think you would have any issues.
highvelocity
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
if youre in the tyler area, happy to help
Owner of Kool Provisions
www.koolprovisions.com
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Tyler, Tennessee?
frorge
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
From that website:
https://tailoredtrucks.com/blog/2017-gmc-sierra-1500-towing-capacity/

2018, 5.3L, 3.08 Axle, Crew Cab, Short Bed, 4x4 = Towing Capacity of 6,100.

Should have got the "Max Towing Package" and would be at 9,100. Didn't foresee tractor purchases in my future 7 years ago.
highvelocity
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Tejas
Owner of Kool Provisions
www.koolprovisions.com
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
frorge said:

From that website:
https://tailoredtrucks.com/blog/2017-gmc-sierra-1500-towing-capacity/

2018, 5.3L, 3.08 Axle, Crew Cab, Short Bed, 4x4 = Towing Capacity of 6,100.

Should have got the "Max Towing Package" and would be at 9,100. Didn't foresee tractor purchases in my future 7 years ago.

Oof... so yeah, 50% over your towing capacity may get a little hairy. Definitely take it slow...

If I'm reading everything correctly, you also have a GCWR of 12,000 lbs and a GVWR of 7,600 lbs (payload of 2,120).
AgEng06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
highvelocity said:

Tejas

Just messing with you because I asked where he was located earlier and he said middle Tennessee.
Hoosegow
How long do you want to ignore this user?
Yikes! I'm with you. I wouldn't. Unless I was in the Rio Grande Valley. Then I'd say hammer down. People don't care down there. Don't worry about the mule and all.

Yah, OP, not good.
highvelocity
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
ah, missed that.
Owner of Kool Provisions
www.koolprovisions.com
Mas89
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
El Gato Charro said:

I exceed weight all the time. At those speeds it will be fine. Drive slowly.

Exactly.

op, assuming you have a tandem axle trailer with 3,500 lb axles or higher, you will be fine.
the most important part is to balance the weight of the tractor over the trailer axles with a little more on the truck than the rest of the trailer weight wise. Pull in drive, not overdrive and stay under 55.
We regularly pull loaded hay trailers with a 3/4 ton pickup. Neighbor pulls fertilizer bumper pull trailers with 10-12,000 lb fertilizer with a Toyota tundra.
ChoppinDs40
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Hoosegow said:

I'm confused. Your GVWR is 7,200. That means, without a trailer, you should be able to safely drive that vehicle loaded with crap in the back that weighs 7,200 (total weight or truck plus all cargo).

You are pulling a total of 9,400, correct? And you have the trailer package (which usually means set up with a receiver and light/brake plug. Sometimes there are some transmission changes when you switch it on. A quick google search came up with this for a 2020:

The towing capacity of the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 varies based on the engine and configuration. Here are the key towing capacities:
  • 6.2L V8 engine: Up to 12,100 lbs with the Max Trailering Package.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 5.3L V8 engine: Ranges from 9,300 to 11,300 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 2.7L Turbo I4 engine: Ranges from 6,500 to 6,900 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 4.3L V6 engine: Ranges from 7,400 to 7,900 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2
  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel: Ranges from 7,300 to 9,100 lbs.
    [url=https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=385a648c4271126906944a70e97df71973284b9bbbdb02f319428ff532045025JmltdHM9MTc1OTM2MzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0b147cab-8ef5-6dda-29eb-6db78f0e6c81&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90YWlsb3JlZHRydWNrcy5jb20vYmxvZy8yMDIwLWdtYy1zaWVycmEtMTUwMC10b3dpbmctY2FwYWNpdHkv&ntb=1][/url]
    2

    For the most accurate towing capacity, always refer to your vehicle's manual or contact your local dealer.
Look at the information plate on your driver's side door. As long as you have at least the 5.3, I wouldn't sweat 9400. Don't haul mule and I wouldn't think you would have any issues.


It's all about payload and weight ON the suspension, not what it's rated to pull.
AgLA06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
AgEng06 said:

Just be aware that the most difficult part is going to be stopping the trailer. Be smart about it... keep way more distance than you typically would from cars in front of you, anticipate other cars pulling out in front of you, start slowing down way before you typically would, etc.

This.

And now my concern would be what types of hills are we talking about since you said Tennessee? The ability to stop going downhill would be my biggest concern.
AgLA06
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
frorge said:

From that website:
https://tailoredtrucks.com/blog/2017-gmc-sierra-1500-towing-capacity/

2018, 5.3L, 3.08 Axle, Crew Cab, Short Bed, 4x4 = Towing Capacity of 6,100.

Should have got the "Max Towing Package" and would be at 9,100. Didn't foresee tractor purchases in my future 7 years ago.

Yikes. That Asian truck towing capacity bad. That axle ratio SUCKS.

My Ram 1500 is 12,750. Not that my hitch rating would get there.
zooguy96
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Where in middle TN?

I have a 2017 Nissan Titan SV King Cab - I believe rated for 9200 lbs. could possibly assist if close enough.

I'm in the Knoxville area.
I know a lot about a little, and a little about a lot.
John Cocktolstoy
How long do you want to ignore this user?
When you hook up and put the trailer weight on your truck, look underneath at your rubber stops. They are a cone shaped stopper. If you are close to those I would not do it. I had to haul a friends dozer on a big ass trailer. I don't have a gooseneck so he got that dozer on the biggest bumper pull he had and it looked good to both of us. The bounce from bumps and whatnot destroyed the stoppers and that was on a 2500. It is all about how much weight you put on the bumper and the sag. Didn't look bad but it's going to go up and down some.
Second Hardest Workin Man on Texags
Ragoo
How long do you want to ignore this user?
AG
Middle Tennessee doesn't sound flat. Proceed with immense caution and appropriate pucker.
Hoosegow
How long do you want to ignore this user?
You are partially correct. Load placement has a lot to do with it. Which correlate to what you were saying. Probably just arguing semantics here. You got hitch/reciever capacity/, etc. all factor in what you can do safe.
Hehateme1
How long do you want to ignore this user?
Just to add to normal advice, please be careful if you hit some wet roads. Good luck !
Page 1 of 2
 
×
subscribe Verify your student status
See Subscription Benefits
Trial only available to users who have never subscribed or participated in a previous trial.