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Axle load capacities are often missed

Axle load capacities are sometimes forgotten when persons are looking at their weights or are out there for a new tow car.

People very often take into consideration GVM, TBM, ATM & GCM however overlook to look at axle load rankings. I even have weighed 4×4’s even with GVM upgrades that have failed axle weight ratings. Vehicle manufactures have most scores for both front and rear axles on their vehicles.

We sometimes see entrance axle weights overloaded but much more common with the rear axle weights. When we contemplate that weight applied to the tow ball (TBM) is multiplied by 140% – 150% to the rear axle we can see why. Also, passengers, luggage, fuel etc. all contribute to axle weights.

When purchasing a brand new or used vehicle to tow a caravan or large trailer, axle weights should all the time be a major consideration. If you’re getting a GVM improve make positive that axle capacities are being increased as a half of that upgrade… not all are.

A lot of individuals say to me… I must get a RAM. Something to contemplate with the RAM is axle load ratings…the earlier 1500 RAMs had a maximum axle load of 1770kg that has now been increased with the newer models to 1860kg, nonetheless not nice for a automobile that has a braked towing capability of 4500kg.

They still get into bother with rear axle weights when hitching a van and putting a couple of issues in the ute tub. But its not simply the RAM, the Chev Silverado 1500 LTZ has a maximum load rating on the rear axle of 1724kg (even lower than the RAM).

Previous generation Ford Ranger Wildtrack is 1850kg rear axle capability, identical technology Ford Raptor is 1580kg rear axle capability but in addition a lowered towing capability. Isuzu Dmax and its twin the Mazda BT50 (2023) rear axle capacity is 1910kg. Toyota LC200 series Landcruiser has a rear axle capability of 1950kg.

I truly have weighed several LC200 series Landcruisers with a GVM improve which have still failed their rear axle ratings as their axle load rating had not been elevated as part of the GVM upgrade. Draws, fridges, tow ball mass (TBM), gas, individuals all contribute to the load on the rear axle.

Finding Axle load capacities are often overlooked could be very difficult with some manufactures and, in some cases, almost inconceivable. So do your homework earlier than that expensive purchase.

This blog just isn’t designed to provide you all the data concerning all completely different autos however quite to make you consider rear axle capacities. Something that I hope you’ll give critical consideration.

Safe Travels

Craig