Pulling a heavy load a long distance.
Asked by Steven Dec 23, 2015 at 02:14 PM about the 2008 Dodge RAM 3500 SLT Quad Cab LB 4WD
Question type: General
I have a 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 (SRW). We are
moving from Washington state to Alabama. We
will be towing a 32 foot enclosed car hualer,
with 2, 7000lbs axles. My GVWR is gonna be
around 26,000. Has anyone pulled that much
weight at that distance? I drive a tractor-trailer
for a living. So I know all about starting and
stopping. I'm more concerned about whether or
not the engine, transmission, and axles can
handle that much weight. There are new tires
on both. The brakes have been checked on
both. And the trailer wheels bearings packed. I
have 3 major passes to go over. That's my main
concern. Any imputed would be helpfull.
Thanks
12 Answers
Wow, I think I would call a dealer to check. There is not a towing rating sticker anywhere on your vehicle? And is this a diesel engine at least?
If it is a diesel engine, no problem. Refer to the door post sticker for the GCVW rating (gross combination vehicle weight). My main concern would be the weather and trailer tires. Make sure that you have a spare.
6.7 Cummins turbo diesel. All new tires on the trailer.
Still need a spare tire for the trailer, new tires or not.
I have 2 spares and a spare for the truck. Just nervous about the weight.
If the weight is legal and under the GCVW, It wouldn't bother me. If it is over the maximum I would be a bit nervous. The good thing is you won't be pulling this load in the heat of the summer. Best of luck and have a happy holiday.
It's right at the GCVW, maybe over a little. Just gonna take it easy. Thank you for your help. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I have over 2,000,000 safe miles in a big rig myself. Be careful going down the big hills and don't cook those brakes. Drive Safe!
I have 1,000,000+ miles. Been doing it a long time. Even though it's not as good as an engine brake (Jake brake), I do have an exhaust brake that will be used quite a bit!
Just mentioning, would you have to go over the weigh scales? Just pointing it out, I am not a trucker.
If he is 26,000 lbs and under I think he can bypass the scales. Over 26,000 lbs might be another matter. Not sure at this point how the law would apply to him. The if he is over the maximum GCVW limit, that would be cause to shut him down until the weight was made legal. I think I would either hope the truck scales (chicken coops) were closed or I would go around them. I was a truck driver, not a trucker. I am a motorcycle rider and not a biker. Not sure what that means. LOL.
To try and avoid any scales, weigh stations, etc. I am putting "Not for Hire" stickers on my truck and trailer. Because it's not for commercial use, I shouldn't have any problems.
