WD hitch not req'd: GM vs Ford vs RAM

[move on]

Here's an interesting thing. Looking at the owners manuals for 1/2 ton trucks, Ford and Ram require a weight distribution hitch for trailers over 5000 lbs, but GM requires it only for trailers over 7000 lbs. What makes the GM so great, or is it just that GM doesn't like WD hitches?

[TandW]

Is the GM equipped with auto-leveling?

[move on]

Originally Posted by TandW

Is the GM equipped with auto-leveling?

It doesn't say. It's just a general statement in the manual.

[tuffr2]

The redesigned GM 1500 series trucks are almost as big as the 2500 series trucks. When GM redesigned the 1500 seties trucks in 2019 they did a good job.

[move on]

Originally Posted by tuffr2

The redesigned GM 1500 series trucks are almost as big as the 2500 series trucks. When GM redesigned the 1500 seties trucks in 2019 they did a good job.

That's quite a difference. 40% extra load on the hitch ball. Does the new GM have a higher RAWR? It could also be explained by a lower axle-to-ball distance, or a greater portion of load over the front axle.

[TXiceman]

Ignore the manufacturers. A 1/2 ton truck with any trailer over 3000# should have a weight distributing hitch. Self-levelers do not shift any load to the front axle. When you hang a trailer tongue on the back of a vehicle, it will unload the truck front axle and lighten the steering. The Weight distributing hitch transfers some load back to the truck front axle which gives you better control.

The self-leveling systems just prop up the rear axle so that the truck is level.

Ken

[TandW]

You are correct but certainly did not answer my question.

[ArtJoyce]

I'm wondering if it's not over promised and under delivery by marking?

[Wayne M]

I think post #4 answered the question,

[move on]

GM and Ford have a RAWR of 3800 while the RAM has 4100. Strange why GM and Ford are requiring a max trailer of 5000 lbs while GM's max is 7000 lbs. These are all pretty much the same truck as far as configuration goes, and they all comply with SAE towing standards. Maybe GM is simply interpreting the need for a WD hitch differently than the other two.

[Dave Pelletier]

Originally Posted by move on

Maybe GM is simply interpreting the need for a WD hitch differently than the other two.

That would be my guess; I don't believe for an instant that the GM 1/2 ton is 40% more capable than a similarly equipped Ford or Ram.

Dave

[kdauto]

Originally Posted by Dave Pelletier

That would be my guess; I don't believe for an instant that the GM 1/2 ton is 40% more capable than a similarly equipped Ford or Ram.

Dave

I would after looking at the frames and suspension on different makes. Some of these 1500 series are toys, only useful for the weekend warrior getting several bags of compost for the garden and such.

[tuffr2]

Not toys but only good for the smaller travel trailers and 21' boats. The 150/1500 series trucks are becoming the luxury vehicle of choice. I test drove a 2022 3.5 Eco-Boost F-150 about a week ago and though it was the most refined vehical I ever drove and thought this truck would be great to drive to the grocery store plus tow a small boat or camper.

[Dave Pelletier]

Originally Posted by kdauto

I would after looking at the frames and suspension on different makes. Some of these 1500 series are toys, only useful for the weekend warrior getting several bags of compost for the garden and such.

yep, some or all.....


Dave