I just wanted to post some actual numbers. My Truck can handle it, but not legally. Both truck & trailer sales people do not offer or actually do not know anything about the legality issue or choose to ignore it.

Thanks gain.Gil

1) Do nothing. A lot of people exceed their vehicle ratings on a regular basis, often without realizing. There is a factor of safety built in to the numbers, and provided you’re a careful driver you’ll likely never have a problem. Of course, one false move and you’re legally exposed.

2) Add helpers and/or air bags. Helper springs will get you an effective increase in GVWR, but not in a way that will help you legally. I’m not aware of anyone that will add springs to your truck and also give you a new sticker. SO, if you add springs or air bags, you’re doing the right thing, but it’s not going to solve the legal liability issue.

3) Get a bigger truck or a smaller trailer. Obvious I know, but worth mentioning.

I think the bottom line is that the trailer is a little too big for the truck, but like all things in life you’ve got to weigh risk vs. reward. A lot of people have told you not to worry about the risk, and based on the numbers you’ve given me I wouldn’t say that’s not necessarily *bad* advice…but if you’re a wealthy person with a lot to lose in the event of a lawsuit, I say trade the Tundra for a bigger truck.

I came across this forum today. It’s been an interesting read.

I have a 2007 5.7L double cab 4×4 with the TRD package with a GVWR of 7200 lbs.
I also tow a 5th wheel 2008 Cougar 28′( ½ ton series) ya right!

My truck weighs in at 5867 lbs with a full tank of gas. The dry weight of my 5th wheel is 7326 lbs
With two occupants and the 5th wheel hitch and a few items my truck sits at 6362 lbs.
That leaves me with 838 lbs to spare to bring up to the 7200 GVWR.
With the 5th wheel empty I’m 627 over my GCWR. My GCVWR is under by 2312 lbs.
With 800 lbs in the 5th wheel distributed, I’m 769 lbs over the GVWR, with my GCVWR I’m under 1602 lbs

I just recently found this out. Everyone I talk to and see on the road is way over their GCWR.
No one seems too worried, there is the liability issue.

I have had Toyota people, even my brother-in-law that owns a Toyota dealerships says that I’m fine. I have absolutely no problem towing and handling the truck, I wasn’t concern until my brother weighed his unit. He has a Chev 2500 4×4 Diesel and a 34’ Jayco Eagle, he was over by 1600 lbs, 1100 lbs dry weight.

I’m pondering putting better tires and air bags(shocks) to help distribute the weight better, however it will not increase my GCWR. I haven’t weighed the actual weight on the pin, but I have a formula that my brother sent me to put my info in. It’s quite neat how it adjust when you add or take away from the trailer.

There is a lot of trucks on the highway way over their GVWR.

Hope this info helps. I’m still trying to decide what I’m going to do.

Later

Gil