Why is a half-ton pickup called a half-ton?

Question

or a 3/4 ton called a 3/4 ton, etc. What is the difference between these.
A half tone has a hauling capacity and a towing capacity greater than 1/2 ton. the truck weighs more than a 1/2 ton. So what does the naming convention actually mean?

Answer 1

This refers to the hauling capacity of the truck. Through the years and because of competition, the 1/2 ton can haul more than 1000#, but that is what the designation means.

Answer 2

A pick up is classified according to the amount of payload that
truck is capable of---1/2 ton means the truck can haul and tow up
to 1/2 ton combined. 3/4 ton means the truck can haul and tow
up to 3/4 ton combined. Their respective capacities depend on
the springs, shocks, and suspensions built into each truck.

Answer 3

it's called a 1/2 ton because it can carry a load of up to 1/2 ton... same as a 3/4 ton and 1 ton...

Answer 4

1/2 ton can carry 1000 lbs ..3/4 ton carrys 1500 lbs

Answer 5

cause it weighs less than a ton actually weighs 1/2 of a ton just like a 3/4 ton is less than a ton

Answer 6

fordman is correct. The names refer to capacities in the past, but the names have stuck.