2017 Peterbilt 579 Towing Capacity & Payload: How Much Can It Tow?

The 2017 Peterbilt 579 is designed for heavy-duty hauling, and its towing capacity is substantial, varying based on its specific configuration, including engine, drivetrain, and axle ratios. Below, we'll explore the impressive capabilities of this commercial truck.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: Varies significantly based on configuration; typically above 80,000 lbs GCWR, and often exceeding 100,000 lbs in vocational applications or with specialized heavy-haul setups. Individual truck configurations will dictate the exact Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR).
• Max Payload: Not typically expressed as a single “payload” figure like light-duty trucks. Instead, it's determined by the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) minus the truck's curb weight. GVWRs for the 579 often range from 52,000 lbs to over 60,000 lbs, and can be much higher with multiple axles.
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Highly variable depending on axle configuration and suspension. Commonly ranges from 52,000 lbs to 60,000 lbs+. Special heavy-haul or vocational builds will have higher GVWRs.
• GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): This is the critical number for towing. It can range from 80,000 lbs to 120,000 lbs or more, depending on the powertrain and chassis specifications. Always refer to the specific truck's door jamb sticker and manufacturer's documentation.
• Curb Weight: Varies widely depending on engine, transmission, cab configuration, and accessories. A typical tractor configuration might be in the 18,000 - 22,000 lbs range, but this can increase significantly with larger cabs, multiple axles, and heavy-duty components.
• Hitch Class: For a Peterbilt 579, a "hitch" in the traditional light-duty sense is not applicable. These trucks utilize fifth-wheel or pintle hitch coupling systems designed for commercial semi-trailers, not receiver hitches for ball mounts.

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

Commercial truck towing capacities are not typically presented in simple tables like light-duty vehicles due to the immense number of configurations. Instead, the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the primary specification, which is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded truck and its attached trailer. The Peterbilt 579 can be equipped with various PACCAR and Cummins engines, each offering different levels of power and torque, directly impacting GCWR.

Note: These GCWRs are approximations. The actual GCWR for any specific 2017 Peterbilt 579 will be found on the federal certification label (typically on the driver's side door jamb) or the manufacturer's specification sheet for that exact VIN. Payload is calculated by subtracting the truck's curb weight from its GVWR.

Tow Package Contents

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