Choosing the Best Truck for Towing Horse Trailers

When it comes to transporting your beloved horses, having the right truck for towing horse trailers is crucial. Not only does a well-suited vehicle ensure safe and efficient travel, but it also provides peace of mind, knowing that your equine companions are in good hands.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the essentials of truck towing, exploring the fundamental concepts you need to understand before making a purchase.

We’ll highlight the main factors to consider—such as towing capacity, engine power, and trailer weight—and explain why selecting a towing vehicle with excellent towing capabilities is non-negotiable for any horse owner.

Whether you’re heading to a local show you go to on a regular basis or are embarking on a long-distance journey, choosing the best truck for towing horses as well as your needs will make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for both you and your horses.

Why The Towing Vehicle is Just as Important as the Horse Trailer

Choosing the right towing vehicle is crucial when you’re hauling a horse trailer.

You must consider trucks specifically designed for heavy lifting, with robust engines and enhanced suspension systems. This focus ensures you aren’t pushing your vehicle beyond its limits, which can lead to dangerous situations or costly damages.

You will have to check for the vehicle’s tow rating of a truck, which dictates how much weight it can pull safely and directly impacts the stability and safety of your horse trailer on the road.

Always match your truck’s specifications with the weight and requirements of your horse trailer for optimal safety and performance. Keep reading, and we’ll explain which specifications to look for and how to choose the truck you need for your horse trailer best. 

How The Towing Capacity of a Vehicle is Measured

Understanding how towing capacity is measured helps you select the right truck for your needs. Towing capacity is the maximum weight your pickup truck can safely tow.

It’s crucial, especially when dealing with heavy loads like a gooseneck horse trailer. Manufacturers calculate it based on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, chassis, and brakes’ capabilities.

Here are some basic terms you need to know to get a better understanding of what to look for in your initial search for a tow vehicle: 

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle itself, including passengers, cargo, fuel, and tongue weight (the downward force the trailer exerts on the hitch). The manufacturer provides this rating, and it is important to avoid overloading the vehicle.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR):  This is the maximum combined weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including cargo, passengers, etc.) and the fully loaded trailer. This total includes everything the vehicle and trailer can carry.
• Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): The total weight of the trailer itself, plus any cargo loaded onto it. This should always be less than the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity to ensure safety.
• Tongue Weight: This is the downward force that the trailer exerts on the hitch. It’s usually about 10-15% of the total trailer weight. The vehicle’s hitch and suspension need to be able to handle this load without sagging.

Steps for Measuring Towing Capacity:

1. Start with the GCWR: Find the gross combined weight rating of your truck/SUV.
2. Subtract the GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): This is the total weight of the vehicle, passengers, fuel, and cargo. GCWR−GVW = Towing Capacity.
3. The resulting number gives the maximum towing capacity, which is the weight of the trailer (including its cargo) that the vehicle can tow without exceeding its limits.

So, opt for a truck that exceeds your trailer’s weight needs for better safety and longevity.

Top Features For Any Truck for Towing Horse Trailers

When you’re choosing a truck for towing horse trailers, it’s crucial to prioritize features that ensure both your safety and that of your animals.

We’ve already mentioned how towing capacity is the number one stat. You should be looking at any heavy or light truck you intend to use as a tow vehicle, but there are many other features to look for and then consider when making your choice. 

Here are the main features: 

Safety and Comfort for Both Drivers and Animals

While not exactly a feature, let’s start with a top rule to keep in mind: safety, followed by comfort.

No matter the cool features you might bump into, safety is the top priority. Some people might want to sacrifice torque power to improve fuel economy, for example, but this is a mistake since torque power is essential for safely transporting your cargo and animals.

Ensuring the safety and comfort of both driver and animals is paramount when selecting a truck for towing horse trailers.

You’ll find a variety of trucks designed with robust safety features that protect both you and your equine companions. When examining vehicles, prioritize those with advanced driver-assist systems that enhance towing stability and reduce the risk of accidents. High tow capacity is essential, but it’s the integration of these safety systems that truly matters.

Features like trailer sway control and electronic stability control are crucial for maintaining control on the road. Additionally, ensure the truck’s cabin offers comfort for long hauls, with ample space and ergonomic seating to help prevent driver fatigue and keep your focus sharp on the road.

Towing Capacity

It’s already been mentioned, but it is worth repeating: Towing capacity is your top feature when selecting a truck for hauling horse trailers. Typically, one-ton trucks offer the robustness needed for such tasks. These powerhouses are equipped with engines designed to handle heavy loads without straining.

It’s also crucial to consider the engine size and type—larger engines can provide the necessary power, ensuring you’re not overworking the vehicle, which can save on fuel in the long run.

Half-ton and quarter-ton trucks will also work, of course, but you’ll be limited in what you can tow. Make sure you don’t plan on getting a larger trailer or more horses later on, at least not until you’re comfortable with getting a larger truck. 

Payload Capacity

After considering towing capacity, you’ll also want to focus on payload capacity, which measures the total weight your vehicle can carry in the cabin and bed. This is measured or advertised in tons: 

• One-ton trucks weigh 2,000 lbs or more, and they’re the biggest in their class. You can find the Doge Ram 3500, Ford F350, and others like it here. 
• Three-quarter ton trucks weigh at least 1,500 lbs, and you can find the Ford F250, Chevy Silverado 2500, and Doge Ram 2500 here. 
• A half-ton truck is the smallest size truck in the towing class and weighs 1,000 lbs. Half-ton are those like the Ford F150, the Toyota Trundra, and the Doge Ram 1500. 

For horse owners, heavy-duty trucks like these are crucial as you often need to transport not just your horses but also gear and supplies.

One-ton trucks, like some Ford models, are particularly noteworthy for their robust payload capacities.

When selecting a truck, check the payload capacity listed in the specifications to ensure it meets your needs. This ensures you’re equipped for the road, no matter how heavy your load.

Axle Ratio

The truck’s axle ratio affects towing power. A higher axle ratio (e.g., 3.73 or 4.10) increases the truck’s ability to tow heavier loads but may slightly reduce fuel efficiency. For towing a horse trailer, aim for a higher axle ratio to help manage the load, particularly if driving in hilly terrain.

Torque and Engine Power

When selecting a truck for towing horse trailers, the torque and engine power are pivotal factors to consider.

You’ll need a robust engine that can handle the heavy load without straining. Typically, one-ton trucks are equipped with engines that offer high torque, essential for pulling trailers uphill or on rough terrains.

The torque, the force that helps the truck start moving and pull the trailer, should be high to ensure smooth towing. Additionally, check the engine power, which sustains the truck’s speed, ensuring you don’t lose momentum on highways.

Opt for trucks with powerful transmissions that can efficiently transfer engine power to enhanced towing capacity. This combination ensures your trailer moves smoothly, regardless of the load or road conditions.

Tow Package

A towing package provides crucial enhancements to a truck’s towing capabilities, making it safer, easier, and more efficient to tow heavy loads like horse trailers.

Towing packages often vary by manufacturer and vehicle model. Still, these packages typically include stronger hitches, upgraded cooling systems, trailer brake controls, enhanced suspension, and stability features that ensure you can tow horses safely, with better control and comfort for both you and the animals.

When selecting a truck for towing horse trailers, opting for a truck with a factory-installed towing package (or adding the right aftermarket components) is essential.

For long miles and extensive ranges, you’ll want a package that enhances your truck’s durability and performance, for example. This would mean choosing one-ton trucks that offer robust packages designed for heavy-duty tasks. These packages typically include upgraded suspension systems, stronger brakes, and enhanced cooling systems to handle the extra load.

Additionally, ensure the tow package supports the weight capacity you require without strain. It’s not just about power; it’s also about safety and reliability over long distances.

Opting for the right package ensures your truck performs optimally, keeping you and your horses safe on every journey.

Extra Electric Brakes

One critical feature you’ll need when selecting a truck for towing horse trailers is extra electric brakes. These aren’t just your standard brakes; they’re specifically designed to handle the additional load and ensure safety when you’re hauling large trailers.

Extra electric brakes help maintain control and stability, reducing the risk of accidents caused by inadequate stopping power.

You’re not just looking for power but for peace of mind. With these brakes, you can tackle steep descents and sudden halts more confidently. They distribute the braking load between the truck and the trailer, preventing the trailer from swaying dangerously.

Trailer Brake Control

This system allows you to manage the brake force on your trailer, ensuring that it syncs perfectly with your truck’s deceleration, especially during downhill drives.

It’s crucial for maintaining control and stability, preventing the trailer from swaying or jackknifing. Most modern trucks offer integrated brake controllers, but if you’re looking at older models, you might need to install an aftermarket controller.

Opt for a proportional controller over a time-delayed one for smoother, more responsive braking. Remember, effective trailer brake control isn’t just a feature—it’s a necessity for your safety and the well-being of your horses.

Heavy-Duty Transmission and Cooling

These features are vital because they handle the extra load and prevent your vehicle from overheating during long hauls. A robust transmission ensures that the towing vehicle can shift gears smoothly under heavy strain, reducing wear and tear.

Meanwhile, an enhanced cooling system keeps the engine temperature in check, protecting it from damage due to excessive heat. Opting for a truck with these specifications not only boosts performance but also extends the lifespan of your vehicle.

It’s crucial to check these features before making a purchase, as they’re key to a reliable and efficient towing experience.

Factors to Consider when Deciding on a Truck for Towing

You’re not just going to check features on a list and then decide what your next towing truck will be. There are a wide variety of acceptable vehicles for towing, many or most with similar features. However, which factors should you take into consideration?

From the type of horse trailer to the type of transmission and the total weight of your cargo, here’s a list: 

The Type of Horse Trailer

Understanding the type of horse trailer you intend to tow is crucial before selecting your truck.

Whether you’re hauling a compact, single-horse trailer or a larger model designed to transport multiple horses frequently, each demands specific towing capabilities.

Determine if your trailer is a bumper pull or gooseneck. Horse bumper pulls can typically be managed by many standard trucks, but a gooseneck trailer, which hooks into the bed of a truck, might require a more powerful, heavy-duty vehicle.

Also, consider the construction of your trailer. Aluminum trailers are lighter than those made from steel, affecting towing requirements.

Knowing these details ensures you choose a truck that not only pulls efficiently but also maintains safety and stability on the road.

The Entire Weight of Everything You’ll Pull

As mentioned at the start, it’s equally important to consider the total weight you’ll be towing, including horses, the trailer itself, gear, and tack.

You’ll need to calculate the combined weight of your horses, which can vary significantly. Remember, an average horse weighs about 900 to 2,000 pounds.

Add to this the weight of your trailer, which often ranges from 2,400 to 4,000 pounds for two-horse models.

Don’t forget to consider the weight of your gear and tack, which can easily add several hundred pounds.

It’s crucial to tally these up accurately to ensure you’re looking at trucks with the right towing capacity. This will prevent overloading and ensure a safe, smooth ride.

Braking Power

A truck’s braking system needs to be robust enough to handle the added weight, ensuring it can stop safely and promptly. Look for features like upgraded brake pads, additional brake calipers, and enhanced cooling systems that prevent overheating during extended use.

It’s crucial to test the vehicle’s braking response under loaded conditions; don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it. Remember, your safety and that of your horses depend on this key feature.

Consider consulting with experts or seeking out user reviews to gauge real-world performance. When in doubt, prioritize trucks known for their superior braking capabilities.

Torque is More Important than Horsepower

When choosing the best truck for towing horses, it’s crucial to focus on torque rather than just horsepower.

Torque essentially measures the truck’s ability to do work; specifically, it’s the force that helps you get moving and pull heavy loads smoothly.

High torque, especially at lower RPMs, means your truck can pull a horse trailer with ease, even up steep hills or during start-stop traffic. This is vital for maintaining control and safety when towing.

You’ll find that while horsepower is about speed, torque is about the muscle needed for towing. Opting for a truck with substantial torque ensures that you’re not caught struggling to accelerate or move efficiently with your trailer in tow.

Gasoline or Diesel Truck? How to Decide

Deciding between a gasoline or diesel truck for towing your horse trailer involves weighing several important factors.

Diesel engines excel in generating more torque and maintaining power over long hauls, which is crucial when you’re pulling a heavy load. They’re also typically more fuel-efficient in scenarios where towing demands are high. However, diesel trucks can be more expensive upfront and the cost of maintenance might also be higher.

On the other hand, gas trucks are less costly to buy and maintain. They start up faster in cold weather, and fuel is usually easier to find.

But, they might struggle with efficiency and power under heavy towing conditions. Consider your typical towing distances, budget, and fuel availability when making your choice.

Dually Truck Advantages

Dually trucks offer significant advantages for towing, especially when you’re looking to handle heavier loads with greater stability and safety.

With dual rear wheels, these trucks provide a broader base that enhances balance and reduces sway during towing. This is crucial when you’re hauling your beloved horses across various terrains.

Additionally, the increased tire contact with the road allows for better traction and braking, which is essential for maintaining control.

These trucks typically come with more robust suspension systems designed to endure the extra weight without compromising the smoothness of your ride.

Rear-Wheel Drive vs a 4-Wheel Drive Truck: Which is Better for What?

Choosing between a rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a 4-wheel drive (4WD) truck for towing isn’t just about personal preference; it hinges on your specific towing needs and the conditions you typically encounter.

If you’re usually driving on paved roads in fair weather, RWD will serve you well, offering better fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.

However, if you find yourself facing muddy paths, snowy roads, or uneven terrain, a 4WD truck might be your ally. This type employs all four wheels for traction, providing superior handling and stability in challenging conditions.

Considering these factors ensures you’re not just choosing a truck that can tow but one that can confidently handle whatever the road throws your way.

Manual vs Automatic Transmission for Towing

For towing horse trailers, an automatic transmission is generally the better choice due to its ease of use, towing efficiency, smoother ride, and modern features like tow/haul modes and transmission cooling.

While manual transmissions offer more control in some situations, they require more driver skill and are less common in modern trucks designed for heavy towing.

Automatic transmissions have become highly advanced, making them superior for the majority of towing needs, including hauling horse trailers.

Additionally, another plus for automatic transmissions is that they are the standard for most trucks today, so they tend to have better resale value. The market demand for manual transmissions in trucks has decreased, especially in the towing category, which can make it harder to sell or trade in a manual truck later on.

Don’t Forget Constant Maintenance on Your Tow Truck

When investing in a truck for towing, remember that ongoing maintenance is key to ensuring its reliability and longevity.

• Regular Inspection of Essentials: Regularly check your truck’s engine, brakes, and transmission to catch issues before they escalate.
• Check cooling: You’ll need to monitor the cooling system, too, especially since towing can strain it.
• Never ignore tires for too long: Don’t overlook tire pressure and tread wear; appropriate tires are crucial for safety and performance.
• Electrical checks: Additionally, ensure your truck’s electrical system, particularly the connections to the trailer, is always in prime condition.
• Take it to service annually, at the minimum: Scheduled servicing isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity to prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

Keeping your tow truck in top shape isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about safeguarding your freedom on the road.

Southeast Financial and their Loans Can Help You With That New Horse Trailer

If you’re in the market for a new horse trailer, securing the right financing can make all the difference. Southeast Financial offers specialized loans that could ease your purchase.

They understand the nuances of financing non-car vehicles, including horse trailers, giving you a tailored solution that fits your budget and needs. With competitive rates and flexible terms, they help you manage your finances without feeling overwhelmed.

You’ll find their application process straightforward and customer-friendly, aimed at getting you approved quickly so you can focus on what really matters – your horses and the road ahead.

Don’t let financial hurdles hold you back. Consider Southeast Financial and explore how their financing options can help you transition smoothly into owning that new horse trailer.