2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Owner's Manual - Page 406

In order to calculate the amount of weight any front accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the front axle, use the following formula: For example, adding a 318 kg (700 lb) snow plow actually adds more than 318 kg (700 lbs) to the front axle. Using the formula, if the snow plow is 122 cm (4 ft) in front of the front axle and the wheel base is 305 cm (10 ft), then: W = 318 kg (700 lb) A = 122 cm (4 ft) W.B. = 305 cm (10 ft) (W x (A + W.B.))/W.B. = (700 x (4 + 10))/10 = 445 kg (980 lbs) So, if the front axle reserve capacity is more than 445 kg (980 lbs), you could add the snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR. You can add heavier equipment on the front of the vehicle if you compensate for it by carrying fewer passengers, less cargo, or by positioning cargo toward the rear. This has the effect of reducing the load on the front. However, the front GAWR, rear GAWR, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) must never be exceeded. (W x (A + W.B.)) /W.B.= Weight the accessory is adding to the front axle. Where: W = Weight of added accessory A = Distance that the accessory is in front of the front axle W.B. = Vehicle Wheelbase 5-38