Towing Terms to Know in Corpus Christi, TX

Towing 101 – Terms You Should Know

A pickup truck like the Toyota Tacoma or Tundra can tow and haul heavy loads. You will likely find towing guidelines in the owner's manual to help you stay safe when towing. But if you don't understand the key terms, those guidelines may seem confusing. You won’t also maximize your vehicle's towing capacity.

Here are a few towing terms you should be aware of before hitching a trailer to your SUV or truck:

Basic Towing Terms

Max Towing Capacity

In addition to your vehicle's configuration, the weight it is already carrying, and how you distribute and control the load you need to tow, your vehicle's towing capacity determines how much weight it can safely pull.

Manufacturers publish towing capacities for their vehicles, but calculations assume the tow vehicle carries only a driver. You won't be able to use the manufacturer's calculations if you pull a travel trailer and bring your family and all their gear for a weekend away.

Payload Capacity

Payload capacity refers to how much weight a vehicle can safely carry. It includes the weight of the trunk and cabin in a car or SUV. In a truck, payload capacity is the weight in the cabin and bed.

When pulling a trailer, the payload includes the trailer tongue weight, which presses down on the hitch.

Tongue Weight

Load distribution affects the tongue weight of a trailer. Correct tongue weight is crucial. Manufacturers recommend that the tongue weight of a conventional trailer be approximately 10% of its total weight. This weight should be around 15% when hauling fifth wheels or gooseneck trailers.

The trailer will sway when driven if it is too light. Meanwhile, too much tongue weight will negatively affect your vehicle's towing capacity.

Gross Combined Weight Rating

A vehicle's GCWR is its weight plus the weight of its passengers, trailer, and cargo. The trailer's weight should not exceed this limit when towing to prevent damage to your vehicle's drivetrain.

Several factors influence the GCWR, such as the engine, transmission, and radiator. The strength of the axles, tires, and chassis affects the maximum gross combined weight of a vehicle.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

A vehicle's GVWR determines the maximum weight at which it can continue to operate. In addition to the passengers' weight, car fluids, and cargo, the tongue weight of the trailer is also taken into account. Trailer weight is not included in this calculation.

The GVWR is on the ID plate to determine the license required to operate a vehicle. Additionally, the GVWR will decide whether your truck or SUV can cross some bridges and roads.

Gross Trailer Weight Rating

Your gross trailer weight represents the total weight of your trailer when it is full. This includes everything that is loaded onto or in your trailer. The cargo, passengers, animals, equipment, auto fluids, and everything else determines the gross trailer weight.

Curb Weight

The curb weight of a vehicle includes all its fluids and fuel but no passengers or cargo. This measurement differs from GVWR, which measures the capacity of a car model. Vehicles are weighed as they exit the facility without liquids or support accompaniments.

Tow Bar

This device connects two vehicles for towing. Unlike a hitch used to tow a trailer, you use a tow bar to tow another vehicle.

Coupler

If you tow a trailer using a hitch, you need a coupler. Various sizes and types are available, including straight tongues, goosenecks, adjustable, and A-frames. It is important to use a coupler that matches the trailer's tongue.

Hitch Types

Various hitches are available, each for different weights and specific uses. Here are the common hitch types:

Bolt-on Trailer Hitch: This hitch connects to the vehicle's frame. It is ideal for light and moderate towing. Fifth-Wheel Hitch: For heavy-duty towing, you need a fifth-wheel hitch. This hitch mounts on the reinforced section of the bed for stability. Fixed Tongue Hitch: This type of hitch offers limited flexibility as it is permanent. However, it is perfect for those who regularly tow the same trailer. Gooseneck: A gooseneck hitch is typically for commercial and agricultural towing

Find a Toyota for All Your Towing Needs at Mike Shaw Toyota

You can use these terms when reading your owner's manual or shopping for a new vehicle to help you make more informed decisions.

For example, if you want a vehicle that can tow anything from a small trailer to a large boat, you should consider the Toyota Tundra, which can tow over 11,000 pounds. If you're looking for a truck that can handle your towing needs, come to Mike Shaw Toyota in Corpus Christi, TX.