Close Quick Guide for Understanding Towing Capacity in Lancaster, PA
If you’ve just acquired a new Jeep Grand Cherokee or Chrysler Pacifica, you may or may not be aware that they’re rated to tow to significant loads. Begin utilizing their core strengths by researching what you can haul through Lancaster, then thoroughly enjoy yourself as you take advantage of being able to bring along a pontoon boat or camper along with you throughout each journey you take. Before you begin embarking on such an exciting trip, we highly recommend you read this quick guide for understanding towing capacity by us at Brubaker Chrysler Jeep!
Start With the Manufacturer's Towing Rating
Every Jeep and Chrysler vehicle comes with a manufacturer-specified maximum towing capacity listed in the Owner's Manual and on the window sticker. These numbers are your ceiling, so you should never exceed them. However, the published tow rating is a maximum, not a guarantee. Several variables affect how much your specific vehicle can safely tow through the Lincoln Highway.
Understand GVWR and GCWR
Two acronyms you need to know —
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum allowable weight of your vehicle when fully loaded. This includes passengers, cargo, fuel, and gear included. You can find this on the door jamb sticker of your Jeep or Chrysler vehicle.
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) is the total maximum weight of your vehicle plus the loaded trailer combined. To find how much trailer you can actually tow, subtract your vehicle's curb weight from the GCWR. The result is your true available towing capacity.
Calculate Your Payload First
Where many drivers tend to make mistakes is when they focus only on the trailer weight and forget about what's already in the truck or SUV. Every pound of passengers, luggage, and gear you're carrying reduces your available tow capacity.
The formula is simple, though you can always contact us if you have questions about it.
The available Tow Capacity = GCWR − (Curb Weight + Passengers + Cargo)
If your Jeep has a GCWR of 12,500-lbs., a curb weight of 4,800-lbs., two passengers weighing 350-lbs. combined, and 150-lbs. of camping gear, your maximum trailer weight becomes:
12,500 − (4,800 + 350 + 150) = 7,200-lbs.
Don't Forget Tongue Weight
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer's hitch point places on your vehicle's hitch receiver. A general rule of thumb is that tongue weight should be 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight. Too little tongue weight causes trailer sway; too much stresses your rear axle and reduces steering control. Most Jeep and Chrysler hitches are rated for a specific tongue weight maximum — check your Owner's Manual or ask one of our service advisors.
Factor In Your Towing Package
Not all vehicles of the same model are created equal. A Jeep Wrangler with the factory towing package and heavy-duty cooling system will outperform one without it. When you shop with us, we'll help you identify whether your vehicle came equipped with the right hardware to handle your intended load safely.
Come Talk to Us Before You Hitch Up
Calculating towing capacity involves more than one number on a spec sheet. Elevation changes, road grades, and trailer aerodynamics all play a role. Our sales and service team is here to walk you through your specific vehicle's capabilities and help match you with the right Jeep or Chrysler for your towing needs. Stop by the dealership or give us a call. Tow smart so that you can travel safe to the Old Mill Stream Campground while pulling a trailer.
What Cars in the Chrysler and Jeep Vehicle Lineup Are Capable of Towing?
- Jeep Wrangler
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Jeep Cherokee
- Jeep Compass
- Chrysler Pacifica
Dealership Information
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