When it’s time to move your favorite toys or to take care of tough jobs, hitching up a trailer can make things a lot easier. Whether you’re using your vehicle to tow a trailer or a boat on the weekends or putting it to work daily, understanding your towing capacity and drivetrain is crucial to ensuring you don’t put unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle’s parts.

 At our Glendale area RAM and Jeep dealership, a lot of folks are interested to learn more about just how capable their vehicles are. That said, towing boils down to more than just power. In addition to your engine and transmission producing the power you need to tow, your suspension needs to be capable of supporting the added stress and your brakes need to strong enough to be able to slow your load down.

 When you’re looking to deal with some weighty cargo, there are three key figures you need to know. You’ll find your vehicle's weight ratings in your owner’s manual.

What is Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?

This figure refers to the overall weight of your vehicle, and should be observed all of the time–not just when towing. This includes your vehicle weight, the added weight of your passengers and your cargo, and the tongue weight. Tongue weight refers to the downward weight of a trailer on the hitch; this is often overlooked, but it’s important to factor in.

What is Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTWR)?

Simply, this refers to the weight of the trailer and what’s in it. While you might be tempted to try pulling more than your vehicle is rated for, it’s never a good idea to push the limit. Even if your vehicle can get the trailer moving, it will put undue stress on your powertrain. Additionally, your vehicle might not have the stopping power to come to a stop safely. This is why many of the new trucks and SUVs at our Los Angeles area dealership are geared with specially designed brakes.

What is Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)?

This limit specifies how much your vehicle can collectively handle. While the GCWR includes the vehicle, passengers, cargo, tongue, and trailer weight, it’s important to note that it’s typically less than the sum of your GVWR and GTWR. If you’re maxing out your Gross Vehicle and Gross Trailer Weight Ratings, chances are that you’re over your Gross Combined Weight Rating and will have to shed some weight to operate safely.

Once you know how much weight your vehicle can handle, it’s easy to dive into tough (or fun) jobs and get things done! For more information on all that your truck or SUV can do, or to maintain your powertrain properly and avoid early wear and tear, be sure to contact Glendale Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram by calling (818) 296-6702 today!