New Suspension to help w/Trailering
08-15-2008, 04:14 PM
#11
Registered User
Tow ratings have been grossly exaggerated by all of the manufacturers over the span of the last several yeats. They're building the exact same trucks using the exact same componentry and ratings have increased by 20 to 30%. That's because marketing departments have taken over setting the ratings instead of the engineers doing it.
Firestone and Load-Rite airbags will cost you less than $300 with a manual fill kit.
Firestone and Load-Rite airbags will cost you less than $300 with a manual fill kit.
08-18-2008, 03:54 PM
#12
Gold Member
Gold MemberThread Starter
Tow ratings have been grossly exaggerated by all of the manufacturers over the span of the last several yeats. They're building the exact same trucks using the exact same componentry and ratings have increased by 20 to 30%. That's because marketing departments have taken over setting the ratings instead of the engineers doing it.
Firestone and Load-Rite airbags will cost you less than $300 with a manual fill kit.
Firestone and Load-Rite airbags will cost you less than $300 with a manual fill kit.
I'll look into those airbags you suggested Chris. Thanks.
09-04-2008, 01:29 AM
#13
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Location: Lake Villa, Illinois
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lots of factors at play here, many mentioned above are excellent thoughts. mostly, if you are within the weight limits and mfg tow limits, there are a few things that are key. one- your tongue weight. two- how the boat is balanced on the trailer and the trailers suspension setup. three- if you are maxing the vehicles ratings, the manufacturer has certain criteria under which it acheived those ratings, wheel base-4x4 or 4x2 engine , trans, rear differential etc.. make sure you know the gross COMBINED weight rating of your truck and what it is towing. not the max tow rating. these are VERY different. you are right , the back should not bounce severely . most of the comments on these threads are guess work as they need more information to accurately asess your situation. i tow for a living and would be happy to help you on the matter. call if you wish 847-809-7110. safety first! dont gamble your life on rushing to the lake unsafely.
09-04-2008, 09:08 AM
#14
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You need a bigger truck. That Durango is made for people hauling; with a pop-up camper, or a pair of PWCs; no matter what the Dodge marketing department deems the tow rating ought to be.
Fact is, we never tow with the truck "empty". We've always got 3 days worth of luggage, and 2-5 people in the truck, tools, coolers, etc. etc. All of this weight diminishes from your overall GCWR. If your boat/trailer is already over the rating of your truck, you are already towing illegally, and just asking for more trouble.
Remember, fuel in the boat is 6 lbs. gallon; and water is 8 lbs. per gallon; then tools, anchors, lines, spare parts, etc. etc. too.
Fact is, we never tow with the truck "empty". We've always got 3 days worth of luggage, and 2-5 people in the truck, tools, coolers, etc. etc. All of this weight diminishes from your overall GCWR. If your boat/trailer is already over the rating of your truck, you are already towing illegally, and just asking for more trouble.
Remember, fuel in the boat is 6 lbs. gallon; and water is 8 lbs. per gallon; then tools, anchors, lines, spare parts, etc. etc. too.
I wonder if Dodge has changed the suspension on newer models to save a few bucks in production costs.
