Model Codes

Hi,

I'm looking at purchasing a 2020 Tundra as a tow vehicle. I see in the owner's manual that the vehicle capacity is listed for the various model codes. Does anyone know how to decode those codes? In particular, what is the difference between the USK51L-CRTSKA and the USK51L-CRTLKA? I am new to this forum and appreciate your comments.

 

What are you planning to tow with it? Tundras are a little shy on payload capacity compared to other trucks (12 year old design, go figure) and the 2019+ trucks don't have an external transmission cooler. Have you considered these factors?

 

Thanks for your comments. I plan to tow a travel trailer of no more that 7000 GVWR and am aware of the payload and cooling issues from this forum, but thanks anyway for pointing that out. The payload issue is exactly why I'm asking because I want to maximize it and so I will go with an SR5 Double Cab 2WD model. But the CRTSKA has 1540 lb payload and CRTLKA has 1505 lb payload so I was wondering what the difference between these two models are. Couldn't find it listed anywhere.

Regarding the transmission cooler, I plan to add one and will check local transmission shops for viability and cost before I buy the vehicle. Anybody's thoughts on that are also welcome.

 

Max payload will actually be a 4x4. The heavier front axle can bear more weight than it adds. You'll also want to shy away from options that add weight like the larger fuel tank and center console if you want the absolute maximum payload.

 

It doesn't look like these codes give a lot of information beyond Engine, Body, Grade, Transmission, and Options. And many times, not even all that.

USK51L-CRTSKA is optioned out as an SR5 DC.
USK51L-CRTLKA is optioned out as a Limited DC (probably heavier with a lower payload as there would likely be more bells and whistles added).

Toyota defines what qualifies as an SR5/Limited/Other according to their internal whimsy although the difference of the S and the L may offer guidance.

Looks like these are also known as Frame Numbers.

 

Thanks, Wynnded, that makes sense and the S and L fit.

Regarding Adam's comment about 4WD payload, the owners manual says the 2WD has capacity of 1540 lb vs. 1435 lb for 4WD with same CRTSKA trim package.

 

You may want to reference the decal on the door jamb of the driver's door of the actual vehicles to be more certain you're getting what you're expecting.

 

Just checked and it appears I was talking out my ass.







Keep in mind these show a seating capacity of 6 so you will only have this payload if you get a column shift truck. No center console. If the truck has a center console then you will drop these numbers. As @Wynnded said, you will want to check the door of the actual truck you are planning to purchase as all the numbers online are more generalized.

 

Right, I am going with a 6-seater

 

@HappyCamper7424 it sounds like you've done solid research, so just avoid extra options if you want the added payload. When you find some you like, have the dealer send you pics of the door stickers so you can see what the real rating is, because it'll be pretty hard to get a bare bones SR5. You might even have to get an SR to get the listed payload numbers.

 

You're right, I may need to drive quite a ways or even factory order, but I also want the SR5 options (cruise, sliding rear window, etc.). I'm hoping that since the 2021 will be a complete redesign, I can get a good deal on a 2020.

 

2022 will be the redesigns. They've already shown the Trail Edition for the 2021.

 

This is comparing a 4x2 Crewmax to 4x4 double cab, not apples to apples...the difference should be even more than this...

 

oops!