I did a search and was not able to answer my question.

I've got an 2002 D/A 3500 4x4 extended cab and the owners manual
says that maximum trailer weight is only 12,000lbs (p4-82)..... same as the
3/4 ton truck:confused:

What is the reason the manual low balls the towing capacity?

I don't expect any problems with my 16,000 pound 5th wheel
now on order.

Thanks.

12,000lb is bumper hitch. You are controlled by your GCVW(total weight) and your rear axle load rating.

How do you compute this value? Is there a formula or
a link to plug in the numbers?

http://www.chevrolet.com/silverado/specifications/

Your truck is rated at 22,000lb combined weight with manual 4x4, and recommended max 5th wheel is 14,800lb.

2wd will increase the payload 300lb, and the automatic increases it by 1,500lb.

PS - take those numbers with a grain of salt. The regular cab 2wd 2500HD auto is rated at 5th wheel towing of 16,000lb. And nobody really believes a 2500HD is a better hauler than a 3500 Dually.

56nomad...my father-in-law tows a 37 ft 5er that weighs in around 16.5K loaded. He has an '04 2500HD and it tows it like a charm. Like was said above, just watch your rear axle weight rating. With the proper 5er hitch, you'll be all set. Especially since you have a dually!

Brakes or the ability to whoa it all down would be the biggest concern

Right on dmaxalliTech. Be sure to install a quality brake controller such as A Prodigy so you won't have problems with max braking ability.

Thanks for the piece of mind. We'll be fine with this new set up.

Hey Nomad, I had the same concerns. Powerwise, with a module you'll be fine. As said above, brakeing will be the concern. The brakes on our trailer are oversized, which is how I still have a warm and fuzzy fealling. LOADED trailer weight is 18,000 max (heaviest I ever loaded it), but trailer braking is rated at 21,000!

Howard,

What type of trailer are you getting?

Alan

Howard,

What type of trailer are you getting?

Alan

Hi Alan,

Sorry I missed your post :o:

We ordered a 2006 Weekend Warrior toyhauler LE3305
and it's supposed to be delivered on April 23rd.

We're really looking forward to its arrival.

9 days to go 56Nomad! :D Congratulations on your TH. Mama JJ and I have found these units to be the most versatile we have owned. We often use the garage as a private bedroom for our friends or family members to come stay with us when we're on our travels. JJ :)