Axle load capacities are often overlooked

Axle load capacities are sometimes forgotten when persons are taking a look at their weights or are in the market for a new tow vehicle.

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

We occasionally see entrance axle weights overloaded however 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 are able to see why. Also, passengers, luggage, gas and so on. all contribute to axle weights.

When purchasing a new or used vehicle to tow a caravan or giant trailer, axle weights ought to all the time be a major consideration. If you’re getting a GVM improve make positive that axle capacities are being elevated as a 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 elevated with the newer fashions to 1860kg, nonetheless not great for a car that has a braked towing capacity of 4500kg.

They nonetheless get into bother with rear axle weights when hitching a van and placing a few issues within the ute tub. But its not simply the RAM, the Chev Silverado 1500 LTZ has a most load ranking on the rear axle of 1724kg (even lower than the RAM).

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

I actually have weighed a quantity of LC200 series Landcruisers with a GVM upgrade which have still failed their rear axle scores as their axle load ranking had not been increased as a half of the GVM upgrade. Draws, fridges, tow ball mass (TBM), fuel, folks all contribute to the load on the rear axle.

Finding these axle capacities may be very tough with some manufactures and, in some circumstances, almost impossible. So do your homework earlier than that expensive buy.

This blog isn’t designed to offer you all the information concerning all different automobiles however somewhat to make you think about rear axle capacities. Something that I hope you will give serious consideration.

Safe Travels

Craig