Check my math here - Gladiator Sport 8spd (no max tow)

[Shatterhappy]

Hi all,

I'm trying to get a small little camper for the wife and I (Gladiator Sport S 8spd, without max tow). She wants as big as possible and I want as light as possible. I want to follow all the provided tow ratings. So help me figure out if this trailer we've picked out will work:

Trailer Weight:
Dry: 3445
Hitch Weight: ~400

Gladiator:
Tow rating: 4500
Payload: 1100

Payload - Hitch weight = 700
700 - Human and Dog weight = ~250 remaining (might toss in a backpack or suitcase in the bed?)

So Payload should be fine?

Weighed all of our extra gear, came out to about 550. So dry weight + gear = 4000 flat

That should leave me about 500 left over. (water, propane? Don't want to travel with those too full if at all possible, will have access to full hookups)

Now here is where I know things get a little blurred. I have 35in AT tires and a leveling kit, but no lift kit. I'm sure that has at least some effect on my towing though I'm hoping not too much as the tires aren't extreme and no actual lift. Would it benefit me to remove the leveling kit to make up for the weight in the back end if I plan to tow this frequently?

Basically, I know the Sport S tows 1500 less than the overland. I am no car guy but the only things I can think of as reasons are trans cooler and brakes? Are these things I should upgrade to help out with this at all? I know people are pulling much heavier with their little pentastars, but for what I've got, am I going to be okay? Really nervous about making a bad purchase.

Thank you all!!

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[that_gladiator_kid16]

hi
I also have a Gladiator with 8 speed (heavy tow tho) and 35’s and a leveling kit and i think that if you don't feel like you can handle the terrain in yours definitely upgrade the brakes.

 

[MrJeep]

IMHO, I think you are fine. I wouldn't worry about the 35s and leveling kit unless you find it really points your nose in the air when trailering and blinds other drivers.
I'm pretty certain the brakes are the same in all gladiators and having towed many times I can tell you they are fantastic. I would not hesitate to tow 4000#s.

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