Tow hitch ratings

[bpassmore]

Does anyone know what (if any) safety factor is built into the tow ratings of hitches?

Example, if a hitch is rated at 5,000 pounds, and you routinly tow at 5,000 pounds, is their any danger?

 

[D'Animal]

I would worry more about what the hitch is attached to, such as the frame.

 

[bpassmore]

the frame is a freightliner xc chassis, rated at 15000, the hitch is a class 3 jobby.

shoddy.

i towed 6500 (my avalanche tow dolly) to ohio and back, zero problems.

so, there is a margin of error built in.

 

[Michael Hanson]

These days I would figure no margin of error. Mike