It’s crucial to have a vehicle with sufficient towing capacity when it comes to heavy loads. In general, trucks and SUVs allow you to safely tow about 80% of their towing capacity. However, some situations may arise when you might need more towing power from your vehicle.
Below are some tips on how to safely and effectively increase the towing capacity of your truck or SUV.
Steps in Increasing Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
1. Install a Weight-Distributing Hitch
The hitch is connected to your vehicle’s chassis, built to connect a trailer or another vehicle to it for towing. A weight-distributing hitch helps distribute the weight of the trailer evenly over your truck or SUV, which can improve overall handling and stability and reduce the strain on its rear suspension. It is a crucial component when towing heavy loads.
2. Put in a Power Programmer
A power programmer can provide additional horsepower, torque, and throttle response, making towing more efficient and manageable. Of course, it’s not something that can get the job done by itself. When going for a power programmer, look into other upgrades to ensure that your vehicle makes the most out of the extra engine output.
3. Upgrade the Suspensions
Heavy-duty trucks won’t have a problem with towing, but smaller trucks will need an extra push to get the job done. Upgrading the suspensions can enhance the vehicle’s stability, control, and towing capacity. Heavy-duty shocks, stiffer springs, and reinforced sway bars can help manage the additional weight and reduce sagging.
Consider installing a set of air springs or airbags, which can be adjusted to compensate for varying loads and maintain a level ride height.
4. Install a Transmission Cooler
Towing heavy loads generates significant heat in your vehicle, which can strain its transmission. Installing a transmission cooler helps dissipate heat more efficiently, making sure that the transmission fluid remains at optimal temperatures and preventing overheating. This will extend the life of the transmission and increase your vehicle’s overall reliability.
Keep in mind that some SUVs and trucks already have a transmission cooler installed to specifically help with towing. Check your vehicle to see if it already has one.
5. Upgrade Your Brakes
The increased weight puts extra strain on the braking system, requiring additional stopping power. Upgrading your brakes will enhance your vehicle’s ability to handle the increased load and improve overall stopping performance.
Consider installing larger brake rotors and high-performance brake pads, and upgrading to a more robust brake caliper system. The upgrade you need depends on the SUV or truck you have, but you should be able to easily find a decent upgrade to help with towing.
6. Get a Tow Package
If your truck or SUV doesn’t already have a factory-installed tow package, consider investing in one. You can get an aftermarket tow package from third-party services. It typically includes a heavy-duty hitch receiver, a larger radiator, an upgraded alternator, and a wiring harness designed specifically for towing. It’s a complete upgrade, allowing your SUV or truck to handle heavier loads more efficiently.
7. Get Expert Input
Before proceeding with any modification, it’s essential to seek the advice of towing experts. Make sure to ask your trusted mechanic or a dealership specializing in towing vehicles as they can provide valuable insight into your vehicle’s capabilities and recommend appropriate upgrades. Get second, third, and fourth opinions if you need to.
Reddit is another source you can look into. Find a subreddit focused on your vehicle, ask your questions, and collect as much information and tips as you can.
Can I Tow More Than My Towing Capacity?
Technically, yes. You can tow more than your vehicle’s towing capacity, but there are consequences to it.
To put it simply, towing a load beyond your truck or SUV’s maximum capacity can cause your vehicle to break in more ways than one. It can strain or break components such as the hitch, transmission, suspension, or brakes, compromise your vehicle’s overall stability, and increase the risk of accidents.
It’s advised to stick to your manufacturer’s recommended towing limit to ensure safety and avoid potential damage, but there are certain steps you can take to enhance your vehicle’s capabilities within its limits.
Be Smart and Thorough with Your Towing Upgrades
Increasing the towing capacity of your truck or SUV requires careful consideration. When upgrading your vehicle, remember to prioritize safety, stay within the recommended limits of your manufacturer, and consult with towing experts. These will help you avoid unnecessary risks while ensuring you get the ideal towing experience.
