Towing Terms at Berglund CDJR in Roanoke, VA

101-Towing Terms to Know

Buying a vehicle like the RAM 2500 or the more powerful RAM 3500 gives you the brawn to tow and haul an incredible load. Your owner’s manual likely includes guidelines that will help you stay safe when you’re towing, but if you don’t have a basic understanding of a few key terms, those guidelines may seem like a foreign language.

Below are definitions of towing terms you should know before you hitch a trailer to your new truck.

Basic Towing Terms

• Max Towing Capacity: Max towing capacity defines the safe upper limit for the weight your vehicle can pull. Engine power, braking ability, and vehicle structure all play a role in this crucial rating.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Think of the GVWR as your vehicle’s weight limit. It includes the curb weight (empty weight), passengers, cargo, and any add-ons. Exceeding this rating can put undue stress on your vehicle and compromise safety.
• Payload Capacity: This term refers to the maximum weight you can safely transport inside your vehicle, including the cabin and cargo bed (for trucks). Remember, payload capacity contributes to the GVWR, so factor in passengers and cargo when calculating how much you can haul.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The GCWR is the total weight of your vehicle, passengers, cargo, and the trailer itself. It is the absolute maximum weight your entire rig can safely handle. Pushing beyond this limit can strain your drivetrain and lead to dangerous situations.
• Curb Weight: This is the baseline weight of your vehicle when it’s empty – no passengers, cargo, or aftermarket accessories. It typically includes the weight of standard equipment, fluids, and a full gas tank (if applicable).
• Tongue Weight: When you connect a trailer, it exerts a downward force on the tow hitch. This pressure, known as tongue weight, usually falls between 10% and 15% of the trailer’s total weight. Proper weight distribution is essential for safe towing, and tongue weight is a key factor.
• Tow Bar: This tool allows you to tow another vehicle by creating a connection point between the two. Unlike a trailer hitch, the towed vehicle remains on the ground with its wheels partially engaged.

Hitch Types

The part that joins a trailer to your car is called a hitch. Depending on what or how much you’re carrying, you may require various hitch types. Common hitch types are listed below:

• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: Designed for towing large campers and heavy-duty trailers, the fifth-wheel hitch mounts directly onto a reinforced section of the truck bed. This strategic positioning provides exceptional stability and weight distribution for heavier loads, ensuring a smooth and secure towing experience.
• Bolt-on Trailer Hitch: This hitch attaches directly to the vehicle’s frame, providing a secure connection for towing bicycles, utility trailers, or other light-duty loads.
• Gooseneck Hitch:Primarily used for commercial and agricultural applications involving heavy equipment, the gooseneck hitch is installed within the truck bed. This unique placement allows for a tighter turning radius compared to traditional trailer hitches, offering superior maneuverability in tight spaces.

Find a RAM for All Your Towing Needs in Roanoke

Understanding terms like towing capacity from your owner’s manual or when shopping for a truck can help you choose the right one for your hauling needs. Need a pickup to handle a big trailer or boat? The RAM 3500, with some models reaching a whopping 37,090 pounds of towing capacity, might be the perfect fit. Berglund CDJR has the trucks with the muscle you need for any job. Visit our dealership in Roanoke, VA, today.