Towing Issues: 2004 dodge dakota, gross vehicle weight, typical spots

Question
QUESTION: I would like to purchase a moving trailor,it is 18 feet long,8 feet wideand 7 feet high,loaded we could reach about 10,000 pounds including the 3600 pound trailor,Will my 2004 dodge dakota with a 4.7l auto transmission and tow package, 4 door quad cab, 4 x 4 pull this trailor.
ANSWER: Edmunds.com lists your towing capacity at under 6000 pounds NOT including the weight of the vehicle.  To it would be right at 10,000 including the truck.  I would say you are right on the limit.  Now if the 10,000 pounds is only the trailer and it's expected load, then you are WAY OVEr the max for your combination.

I would make sure you have a tranny cooler and if going over any mountains, you might be wise to go with a smaller trailer.

Don

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the help, the trailor weights 3400 pounds ,I have a tranny cooler and a locking diff, complete trailor package, suppose my work is in the city only, within 1 hour from home, can I load at least 5000 pounds of stock in the trailor.

Answer
In looking at the 2007 Dakota specifications on the Dodge web site, they list a top capacity of about 7000 pounds towing capacity with all the factory options.  I think we can assume that the 2004 would be the same or less, probably not more.  You are looking at 8400 pounds.  So No, your truck won't do it safely.  You are beyond the maximum towing capacity.

But to be sure, there should be a sticker or plate on your truck, typical spots are the door frame or on the door near the latching mechanism on the drivers door, or passenger door.  maybe a sticker in the glove box, but it will list the GVW Gross Vehicle Weight and GCVW Gross Combined Vehicle weight.  The GDVW is what you would look at as it includes maximum trailer and load capacity.  You are looking at near 13,000 pounds, and that is full size truck territory.

Will your truck get the load down the road with a properly rated hitch or fifth wheel etc?  Probably.  Will it do it safely and will you pass an inspection if you are caught at a weight station?  Probably not.

To be sure check with a Dodge dealer and get the final specs for your truck with all the options you have.  

When towing, I prefer to stay on the safe and legal side. so if you KNOW you are going to tow those loads regularly, I would recommend a heavier duty rig.

Don