Towing Needs: How to Choose a Used Truck That Can Actually Handle the Job

What do you think is the most common mistake that used truck buyers in Calgary make? They go for used trucks mostly based on price and looks. But the reality is that not all trucks are the same when it comes to real-world usage needs. You may need a truck for casual outdoor use, but others need one to tow heavy loads like boats. For heavy use or driving on rugged terrain, buyers must be careful.

Think of what you need to tow

First, think of what you will need to tow. Buying a truck without this analysis will cost you later. Before looking for Calgary trucks for sale, ask yourself the following questions:

• What am I towing? Is it a fishing boat, a camper, a flatbed with equipment, or horses?
• How much does it weigh — loaded? 
• How often do I need to tow? 

Once you have a realistic number for your loaded trailer weight, you are less likely to make a wrong choice. 

Understanding tow ratings

Truck manufacturers publish tow ratings, and those numbers may look impressive on paper. However, you must understand the context behind them that dealers don't always explain clearly.

What is a truck's maximum tow rating? It denotes the highest number a truck can tow under ideal conditions. But when you drive a used truck on different terrains, that ideal condition may not exist! So if a truck is rated to tow 12,000 pounds, a realistic ceiling for regular use is closer to 9,500–10,000 lbs.

What to look for in the used truck?

• Check the tow package, to begin with. A factory tow package typically includes a trailer hitch receiver. You also get a trailer hitch receiver, upgraded cooling, and a transmission cooler.
• Ask for service records and look for any signs of overheating issues.
• Check if the truck has an integrated or aftermarket brake controller already in place.

Matching the truck class to usage needs

Not every towing job needs a heavy-duty truck. You can use most half-ton trucks to tow Boats, light campers, ATVs, utility trailers, etc. Three-quarter-ton trucks are good for heavy campers, equipment trailers, and other heavy-duty applications. Larger, one-ton trucks are ideal for commercial hauling needs. 

So, analyze the load that you need to tow and avoid overpaying for a used truck. Similarly, do not buy an underpowered used truck for heavy-duty towing needs in Alberta.

How to avoid problems?

When you shop for used trucks in Calgary for towing needs, keep these aspects in mind:

• Do not go solely by how good a used truck looks or how many kilometres it has covered. Those metrics are important, but towing involves other factors.
• Find a truck rated comfortably above the towing capacity level, not below or equal.
• Do not skip checking if it has a factory tow package.

Final words

A truck that's well matched to what you're towing will last longer and offer you better performance. That is actually true about the used cars in Calgary. Be careful and do proper research to get the right used truck for hauling loads.