For individuals sharing those statements, there is no doubt that their three-quarter-ton truck can tow a large trailer like that “just fine” or with “no problem.” Although the truck may appear to be towing it with no problem, only time will tell if that remains true. I certainly didn’t have any problem towing my new Heartland Cyclone with my new 2008 three-quarter-ton Ram truck.
When it comes to comparing the engine and transmission between most three-quarter-ton and one-ton diesel trucks, there’s little to no difference. The common differences are most likely the axles, springs, tires, rims and gear ratio. Sometimes, the brakes could be different, but that appears to be a rare occurrence.
Occasionally, on various social media forums, someone will ask if their engine of particular size is strong enough to tow a certain large travel trailer. Unfortunately, this really isn’t the best question to be asking.
The reality is, almost any size vehicle, with an adapted towing apparatus connecting to a large and heavy object on wheels, will be able to tow it. Heck, my wife and I watched an old F150 flatbed truck tow my 17,800-pound trailer up a steep slope at the 49er RV Ranch in Columbia, California, and then backed it into an RV space that was also on a short rise. Because of the space restrictions, I couldn’t have accomplished that with my dually.
On YouTube, you can find videos of a Toyota Tundra towing the Space Shuttle, and a VW Touareg towing a 747 jumbo jet. In one episode of the TV show, Top Gear USA, a Ford F150 truck towed a 727 cargo jet around an obstacle course.
The ability to tow something is never the problem.
Great article. I’m also scared by those who say their truck can tow their trailer “just fine” or with “no problem”. That usually means they haven’t checked all the items you note.
I think one of the problems is the “maximum trailer weight” ratings that truck manufacturers publish. That’s what too many people site.
When we started full-timing, the predecessor to RV Tow Check saved me from buying too small a truck for our 5th wheel. The Ram dually we bought made towing comfortable. Not only were we towing safely, but cross winds and 18 wheelers on 2 lane roads didn’t require me to “saw” the steering wheel, to keep on the road.
Thanks for the article!
Doing the Math is quite crucial to know how much weight a tow vehicle can realistically tow rather than answering it directly. There are questions that need to be considered as well not just acting things aggressively. Appreciate this article! That’s why it needs to have a professional to get things done
Thanks for the tips! Will definitely consider these tips for safety towing!
Well-written post. Worth the share. I am pretty sure this would help readers especially those who are new to towing services and how it works. Thanks!!