Axle load capacities are often overlooked

Axle load capacities are sometimes forgotten when individuals are looking at their weights or are available in the market for a model new tow car.

People very often think about GVM, TBM, ATM & GCM however overlook to take a look at axle load ratings. I have weighed 4×4’s even with GVM upgrades which have failed axle weight ratings. Vehicle manufactures have maximum rankings for each entrance and rear axles on their autos.

We sometimes see front axle weights overloaded however far more common with the rear axle weights. When we think about that weight applied to the tow ball (TBM) is multiplied by 140% – 150% to the rear axle we will see why. Also, passengers, luggage, gasoline etc. all contribute to axle weights.

When buying a brand new or used automobile to tow a caravan or giant trailer, axle weights should at all times be a major consideration. If you might be getting a GVM improve ensure that axle capacities are being elevated as a part of that upgrade… not all are.

A lot of people say to me… I should 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 elevated with the newer models to 1860kg, still not nice for a vehicle that has a braked towing capacity of 4500kg.

They nonetheless get into hassle with rear axle weights when hitching a van and putting a few things in the ute tub. But its not just the RAM, the Chev Silverado 1500 LTZ has a maximum load score on the rear axle of 1724kg (even decrease than the RAM).

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

I actually have weighed a quantity of LC200 sequence Landcruisers with a GVM improve that have nonetheless failed their rear axle rankings as their axle load score had not been elevated as part of the GVM improve. Draws, fridges, tow ball mass (TBM), gas, folks all contribute to the load on the rear axle.

Finding these axle capacities can be very troublesome with some manufactures and, in some circumstances, virtually inconceivable. So do your homework before that expensive purchase.

This blog is not designed to give you all the data regarding all different automobiles however somewhat to make you assume about rear axle capacities. Something that I hope you’ll give critical consideration.

Safe Travels

Craig