There are many reasons as to why you may be looking to buy or lease a truck. One of the most common reasons consumers buy trucks is so they can tow trailers, boats, campers, and other objects easily. If you plan on using your new truck for towing, however, it's important that you know the truck's towing capacity (the maximum weight the truck can tow).

Furthermore, don't fall for any of these dangerous towing capacity myths:

Myth 1: Installing Larger Tires Will Increase Towing Capacity

Some truck owners operate under the mistaken belief that installing larger tires on a truck will increase its overall towing capacity. In reality, the exact opposite could be true. After all, tires that are larger in diameter actually increase the loading on the truck's drive-line components, which also increases the load's effect on a truck's brakes.

For optimal towing capacity, it's in your best interest to keep the same-sized tires on the truck as was originally included by the manufacturer. If you're buying a used truck, check the owner's manual to make sure the right size of tires is included.

Myth 2: It's OK to Tow Over Capacity Every Once in Awhile

Even truck owners who know their trucks' towing capacities fall for this myth; they believe that it's okay to tow more than a truck's allotted capacity--as long as it's not an everyday thing. However, even towing over your truck's listed capacity once can lead to major and expensive damage to your truck's transmission, rear axle, and brakes. Just because your truck can physically tow something doesn't mean it's safe to do so.

Myth 3: Four-Wheel Drive Adds Towing Capacity to a Truck

Finally, don't fall for the myth that having four-wheel drive on your truck will increase your towing capacity. Four-wheel drive doesn't change the amount of weight your truck can safely pull; all it does is give your truck better traction--especially on slippery surfaces. That's because your truck uses the same transmission, brakes, and rear axle when it's in four-wheel drive as it does while it's in two-wheel drive.

As you can see, there are a lot of myths out there when it comes to towing capacity on trucks. By being aware of the truths behind these myths, you can ensure that you're always pulling a safe amount of weight in your truck, which can save you a lot of hassle and money down the road.

To learn more, contact a company like Ski Country Shell & Towing with any questions you have.