Truck's Payload Capacity Disappointment in 2024 Toyota Tundra Limited, Yet Remarkable Impressions Elsewhere
In the world of pickup trucks, the Toyota Tundra has become a popular choice for many, with its versatility and reliability drawing in a growing number of former owners. However, as Steve Hargis, a satisfied Tundra owner, discovered, the truck may have its limits when it comes to towing large fifth-wheel RVs.
Steve's customised Tundra, equipped with a ReadyLift 3.0 Inch SST Series Lift Kit, Toyota Extended CV Shafts, Amp Research Full Auto Power Steps, Fuel Covert wheels, Falken Wildpeak AT4W tires, a BAK Flip 4 Tonneau Cover, and a Rubber anti slip bed mat, was a truck he loved. But when he decided to upgrade to a 3/4-ton truck due to the fifth-wheel towing demands, it marked a turning point in his journey with the Tundra.
His story resonates with other Tundra owners who have come from other brands and discovered storage or payload trade-offs. Hernando Forero Junior, for instance, showed interest in the modifications made to Steve's Tundra, specifically the lift, tires, and wheels. Yet, even he acknowledged the Tundra's inability to legally tow many fifth wheels, a common challenge highlighted by owners on the "2024-2028 Toyota Tundra Owners Forum" on Facebook.
The payload capacity of a half-ton truck like the Tundra is a significant concern when it comes to fifth-wheel towing. Fifth-wheel trailers place a significant portion of their weight directly on the truck bed via the hitch, which can exceed the Tundra's rated payload capacity. This issue often forces owners to reconsider their rig, with some upgrading to a 3/4-ton truck to safely handle the load.
Mark P King, a fellow Tundra owner, expressed understanding for Steve's decision, noting the increased demands of fifth-wheel towing. Devin Gardner, another owner, acknowledged that the Tundra can't legally tow many fifth wheels, but still loves the truck for everything short of fifth-wheel towing.
Customisation comes with trade-offs, and in the case of the Tundra, these trade-offs can lead to potential safety, legal, and mechanical issues. Towing heavy fifth wheels can lead to mechanical problems such as transmission overheating and noticeable shaking under load. One owner reported transmission overheating and major shaking while towing a 6,500-pound travel trailer.
Forum members express a mix of admiration and pragmatic acceptance of the Tundra’s capabilities. While it is appreciated for being a versatile and well-rounded truck, many acknowledge its limitations in towing large fifth wheels, often resulting in upgrading to a larger truck for heavier towing needs.
Those who choose to tow with the Tundra must carefully consider the trailer weight, hitch setup, and towing practices to avoid problems and comply with safety standards. It's okay to outgrow a vehicle as lifestyle evolves, and for many Tundra owners, upgrading to a 3/4-ton truck has been the solution to their fifth-wheel towing needs.
As automotive journalist Aram Krajekian continues to bring a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape, stories like Steve's serve as a reminder of the challenges that come with fifth-wheel towing in a half-ton pickup like the Tundra. For those considering a Tundra for fifth-wheel towing, it's crucial to do thorough research and consider all factors before making a decision.
[Image sources: The '2024-2028 Toyota Tundra Owners Forum' public Facebook group, Toyota's Gallery]
[1] The '2024-2028 Toyota Tundra Owners Forum' public Facebook group. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/groups/2024-2028Tundra/ [2] Toyota's Gallery. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.toyota.com/gallery/ [3] Krajekian, A. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/aramkrajekian/ [4] Aram Krajekian. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.xautoworld.com/user/Aram-Krajekian/ [5] Automotive News. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.autonews.com/ [6] Pickup Trucks. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.pickuptrucks.com/ [7] TorqueNews Hot Topics. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://torquenews.com/ [8] LinkedIn. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/ [9] X. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.xautoworld.com/
- Despite the Toyota Tundra's popularity in the automotive industry, its limitations in fifth-wheel towing, a common concern among owners, have led some to consider a switch to a 3/4-ton truck, like finance expert Devin Gardner did.
- In the realm of technology and sports, Hernando Forero Junior, a technology enthusiast, expressed interest in the modifications made to Steve Hargis' Tundra, but acknowledged its inability to legally tow many fifth wheels, a topic often discussed on platforms such as the "2024-2028 Toyota Tundra Owners Forum."
- As industry trends continue to evolve, particularly in the transportation sector, it's crucial for potential buyers, like sports fans Aram Krajekian and those on LinkedIn, to thoroughly research and understand a vehicle's capabilities before making a decision, such as towing heavy fifth wheels with a half-ton pickup like the Tundra.
