Towing Issues: Buying a tow dolly, jeep grand cherokee, tow dolly

Question
I want to but a tow dolly for my 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee to be towed behind my 1991 Chevy 3/4 ton pickup, which will have an in-bed camper when towing.

The Jeep weighs 5300 lbs. What do I need to look for in a dolly? Most important to me; how do I figure the weight ratings - does the dolly need to be rated for 1/2 the weight of the towed vehicle because half is on the ground, or is there another formula to use?

Thanks!

Answer
Kendra,

I would personally advise against towing such a large vehicle behind a 3/4 ton pick-up.  

The dolly would need to be rated for the entire weight of the towed vehicle as that is how they are rated.  The tongue of the dolly is going to be pulling, steering and stopping the entire weight of the Cherokee so it needs to be strong enough to do the job.  

Be sure to check your vehicle's registration as well as the door sticker of the 3/4 ton for a GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating).  I think you will find that having the camper and toad together will put you well beyond your allowed limits.

Good luck,
Shayne Peterson
MobileHitch
http://www.MobileHitch.ca