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Old 08-04-2003, 10:36 AM   #1
red_apache
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Default Towing capacity formula

I was convinced that there had to be a formula to figure the towing cpacity of a given engine, drive train.
I found what I was looing for on a 4x4 off roading site.
The formula is E.T. x A.R.
x T.D. divided by a factor
of 2.583 E.T = engine torque A.R.= drive axle ratio T.D = tire dia.
The result will produce a figure for TOTAL COMBINED weight. This does NOT take braking and tongue weight capacity into account. This formula is strictly a way to get an idea of what
a given engine / drive train combination is capable of towing.

Jack & Gayle
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Old 08-04-2003, 11:43 AM   #2
Bill
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Location: The mountains of Scottsdale, AZ, and the beaches of Maine
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Default Re:Towing capacity formula

Verrrry interesting! Seems to work. On my Explorer, it tells me that I can tow about 6500 pounds. Ford tells me 7000, so the formula isn't far off - and besides, I think Ford (like most manufacturers) overstates their capacity. I know I would not be comfortable if my TM weighed anywhere near 6500 pounds.

Now, about that formula:
I understand why more torque gives you more towing capacity.
I understand why a higher axle ratio gives you more towing capacity.
I'm not sure why bigger wheels give you more towing capacity. Seems to me it would be just the opposite - smaller wheels are like a higher axle ratio.

Did the article give any insight into this?

Bill
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Old 08-04-2003, 01:25 PM   #3
red_apache
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Default Re:Towing capacity formula

Bill

The article didn't give any explanation for any of the reasoning for the individual componets of the formula. In my case, I will be towing a 2004 2619 with a 01 Suzuki XL 7 V6
The formula gives me a combined total weight about 1500 lbs greater than Suzuki. The Suzuki figure may be a CYA, or braking and other factors may limit the combined total weight figure from Suzuki. But at least the formula lets me know that power will not be a problem.

Jack & Gayle
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