need some clarification

[Qualey]

In short, can I legally tow more than what the factory states the truck is rated for?



I have been getting conflicting info from DOT, state police, other drivers, etc regarding whether or not I can legally haul more then I currently do. The truck is registered for 23,000lbs. I have a class B license. What do I have to do in order to legally haul my GCW of 28,000+? DOT#, log book and health card? Not possible? I see a lot of guys out there with massive loads on these 3500s. I own a granite fabrication facility and need to transport large quantities. Currently we have our bulk product brought in via 18 wheeler, but for home deliveries, etc this isn't possible. Any suggestions? I am in Maine if that matters.



Matt

 

[Crazy Horse]

Your question brings to mind a thought of legal liability. If you over gross your truck, you will be liable for any consequences caused by your actions. IMHO.

 

[csevers]

Over weight or not your responsible for your actions I would hope? It all depends on your states laws and if you go out of state that adds to the chances of problems. Sorry I can't help more.



Good Luck

Craig

 

[Prairie Dog]

To answere your question, It's never legal to tow over your rating.

 

[QRTRHRS]

You can register over the manufacturers gross but when you have a problem, you may be going out on a limb. Where you live and what you do may limit your risk. You need to ask yourself, what happens when someone whips out in front of me, I can't stop, they die, etc. , how will my day in court go?



Back in Jan, I spoke with a DOT officer about this sort of thing. He implied that these grey areas are being looked at and will be resolved eventually.



My opinion? Get a larger rig. Mind you, I have run over more times then I would want to recall, both with the Ram and with 18 wheels under me.

 

[RustyJC]

Every time this question comes up, I picture a 4 cylinder Ford Ranger towing a 30,000 lb tandem dually gooseneck. If it's legal for a Ram to tow, let's say, 2000 lbs over GVWR or GCWR, then it should be just as legal for the Ranger to pull the gooseneck. Wonder what DOT (if pulling commercial) or the state highway patrol (if pulling recreational) would say about that?



Rusty