Towing Terms You Should Know in Rocky Mount, VA

Towing Terms One Should Know

Having the right vehicle for towing and hauling can be a huge help. Trucks and larger SUVs are adept at pulling and carrying heavy loads. For example, if you’re at the wheel of the Chevrolet Silverado, you shouldn’t have many problems towing a boat, RV, or another vehicle. This doesn’t mean trucks and SUVs can tow anything. You need to be aware of the max towing capacity so you can drive safely and protect the vehicle’s powertrain and other components.

The next time you’re ready to shop for a vehicle with towing capabilities, head to Midpoint Chevrolet Buick GMC in Rocky Mount, VA. We’ll set you up with a model that makes the most sense for your needs. Plus, we have towing accessories to ensure that every tow is effective and safe.

Swing by our dealership soon. We are eager to get you into a reliable vehicle so your towing and hauling can be safe and successful no matter where you go in Rocky Mount, VA, and anywhere else.

Basic Towing Terms

• Max Towing Capacity: Don’t assume because you have a full-size SUV, such as a Buick Enclave, or a powerful truck, such as a GMC Sierra 1500, that it can pull any weight. Be aware of the max towing capacity, which is the heaviest weight a vehicle can tow safely. The Silverado can tow up to 12,500 pounds, while the Sierra 1500 has a max towing capacity of 13,100 pounds. Meanwhile, the Enclave can pull up to 5,000 pounds.
• Payload Capacity: The payload capacity is the max weight that the bed of the truck or the trunk of the SUV can safely carry. It’s important to know what this capacity is so your vehicle can perform well and avoid excessive stress on the drivetrain.
• Tongue Weight: The amount of force the trailer applies to the towing ball tongue weight is known as the tongue weight. It typically comprises about 10% to 15% of the trailer’s total weight.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The gross combined weight rating is the maximum weight of the towing vehicle, trailer, cargo, and passengers all together. Exceeding the maximum GCWR will have adverse effects on the drivetrain.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The gross vehicle weight rating is the highest safe weight of a vehicle. It also includes the weight of the passengers, cargo, and other items.
• Curb Weight: The curb weight is how much the vehicle, its standard equipment, and fluids weigh. This measurement does not take into account the weight of the passengers and cargo.
• Tow Bar: The tow bar connects the two vehicles. It works similarly to how a trailer hitch connects a vehicle to the towing vehicle.

Hitch Types

Certain situations and vehicles warrant a specific type of hitch. Review the types so you can choose the right one and tow safely.

• Bolt-on Trailer Hitch: A bolt-on trailer hitch is common. It attaches right onto the frame of the vehicle. This hitch works well for a vehicle such as the Buick Enclave, which can handle moderate towing duties.
• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: Bigger, bulkier loads will require a fifth-wheel hitch. This type can handle boats, motorhomes, and other large vehicles. To use it, mount it to a reinforced part of the truck bed. This will give the towing more stability.
• Gooseneck: If you have agricultural and commercial towing needs, you should consider a gooseneck trailer hitch. Like a fifth-wheel hitch, it mounts to the bed of a truck. A gooseneck has a tighter turning radius and can tow heavy loads such as livestock and farming equipment.

Find Chevy, Buick, and GMC Vehicles for Your Towing Needs in Rocky Mount, VA

There are many advantages to driving a truck or a full-size SUV, especially if you have heavy-duty needs for work or play. The Silverado, Sierra 1500, and Enclave, for example, have excellent towing capacities and maximum payloads. Stop by the dealership of Midpoint Chevrolet Buick GMC in Rocky Mount, VA, so you can explore our lineup of trucks and SUVs. Ask us about towing and payload capacities, and we’ll also help you choose a trailer hitch that fits your chosen vehicle.