jaslaughter

Hello, I recently bought a 2015 SCREW and thought I had done my homework on towing before buying, but further research is just confusing me!

I know from lurking here in the forums that the tables aren't too reliable, but I don't have an original window sticker and the VIN and hitch don't jive.

So here's what I know I have:
- 2.7L 4x2 Lariat SuperCrew
- 145" WB
- 3.31 axle
- 7-pin connector
- ITBC
- Aux trans cooler

By all accounts that sounds to me like the Trailer Tow Package. But then:
- Sticker on hitch shows 5000lb max gross trailer weight, so I have a Class III?
- VIN lookup via Etis shows "With Heavy Duty Trailer Towing"

I can't see if I have the front stabilizer bar.

I have a 2015 Yamaha 242 LS I'm wanting to tow which is ~5069lbs dry including the trailer. With ~300lbs of gas (full) I'm well over the 5000lb limit on the hitch.

So, any ideas which package I actually have? If I only have the hitch and the rest was added by the dealer, is it possible to just swap the hitch since I have the cooler? i.e. is the hitch my limiter at this point or is there something more integral to the truck that would need upgrading? I understand max tow has a thicker frame but I just need to pull this boat, possibly long distance.

msgtord

Look at the hitch again. It should show a higher number when using a weight distribution hitch.

msgtord

Here's my sticker from the hitch. It has 2 max numbers depending on if a wdh is used.

bubbabud

You have the standard tow pkg. and regardless of what it says on the hitch sticker the hitch itself is good for 11,000 pounds. Its the rest of the truck that is limited by weight on the tongue.
I routinely pull 7,000 lb. with my 2.7/ 3.31 [ 20' flat with full body Jeep Rubicon and gear]

jaslaughter

Ok, that's the same sticker I have. So I can pull up to 11k using WD. That clears that up, at least, thanks!

The trailer manual says I should have 5-7% of the total weight on the tongue, which puts me ~354lbs. My understanding though is that the liability requirement is that I meet both capacities, with <=500lbs tongue weight and <=5000lbs gross. Is that correct?

If so, then I need a WD hitch. My trailer manual says my warranty is void on the trailer if I use a WD hitch but I suppose I don't have a choice. That sucks.

Searching around, it appears there are WD hitches for surge brake systems (Reese SC, Equal-i-zer) but all their info indicates these are installed on A-frame trailers. Most boat trailers I could find use a single tongue surge brake configuration. Why do they even make boat trailers for 5k+ boats like this when it seems pretty standard to require a WD hitch for over 5k?

I feel like I must be missing something.

msgtord

Just an opinion, but if it were my truck and boat, I'd hook up and go. Your so close that you can adjust your load a bit to keep a good tongue weight, and surge brakes in good shape should be fine.

"Why do they even make boat trailers for 5k+ boats like this when it seems pretty standard to require a WD hitch for over 5k?"

Big boats require bigger trucks. F250 and up for heavier duty towing.

jaslaughter

Yeah I guess I get that, but I got sucked into the advertised towing capacities and figured I'd be fine.

atwowheelguy

You might get more information from people experienced at towing boats at a boating forum.

http://www.thehulltruth.com/trucks-trailers-60/

MichaelInCalifornia

No! The hitch is rated for 11k lbs, the truck isn't.

Post the truck door stickers. All the info needed is there.

I wouldn't call it a liability requirement, but you must meet tongue and gross whether with or without a WD hitch.

Well, you aren't off by much. I'd probably weigh the trailer and boat and see if you really are over 5k lbs. If not, just pull it. In fact, I'd probably just pull it being its so close, but I'd not call that advise to others, just what I would do.

Boat trailers are a bit of an odd duck. Given your surge brakes, and the possible light duty trailer frame I'd not go with a WD hitch. Seriously, weigh the boat and trailer and see if where you are. 5365 is darned close to 5k.

Perhaps you can off-load gear into the truck bed and get the weight down. You are so light on payload and tongue weight, it would likely be no problem.

jaslaughter

Right, yeah I knew that actually but I wasn't thinking. It's supposed to be rated at 7600lbs according to the brochure (3.31 4x2 145" WB 2.7L) but the sticker may belie that:



Door jam sticker