Axle load capacities are often missed

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

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

We occasionally see entrance axle weights overloaded however rather more common with the rear axle weights. When Axle load capacities are often overlooked consider that weight applied to the tow ball (TBM) is multiplied by 140% – 150% to the rear axle we can see why. Also, passengers, luggage, gas etc. all contribute to axle weights.

When buying a new or used vehicle to tow a caravan or giant trailer, axle weights should all the time be a major consideration. If you are getting a GVM improve be certain that axle capacities are being elevated as part of that upgrade… not all are.

A lot of individuals say to me… I must get a RAM. Something to consider 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 fashions 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 quantity of issues in the ute tub. But its not just the RAM, the Chev Silverado 1500 LTZ has a maximum load ranking on the rear axle of 1724kg (even decrease than the RAM).

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

I even have weighed several LC200 sequence Landcruisers with a GVM improve which have still failed their rear axle ratings as their axle load ranking had not been elevated as part of the GVM improve. Draws, fridges, tow ball mass (TBM), fuel, people all contribute to the load on the rear axle.

Finding these axle capacities could be very difficult with some manufactures and, in some instances, virtually inconceivable. So do your homework before that expensive buy.

This blog isn’t designed to provide you all the data regarding all different autos however quite to make you think about rear axle capacities. Something that I hope you will give critical consideration.

Safe Travels

Craig