Why Is a Trailer Axle Not Rated for the Full GVWR of the Trailer
Question:
I have a 2021 FSX167 whose GVWR is 3850 pounds. The axle has a GAWR of 3500 pounds. How can this be?? Doesnt that mean that I can not load my trailer to the stated GVWR which would exceed the GAWR? The listed unloaded weight of the trailer is 3084 pounds and the CCC is listed as 766 pounds which is truly unrealistic since that did not include the full propane tank and battery on the front of the trailer which adds about 90 pounds or so. This then means I should theoretically have about 666 pound cargo capacity remaining. But if I must abide by the GAWR of 3500 pounds my actual CCC would be about 400 pounds. Is it routine that travel trailer manufacturers install an axle that is so close to the actual weight of the new trailer?
asked by: Jack Z
Expert Reply:
The trailer axle will never be rated for the entire weight of the fully loaded trailer (GVWR), at least directly that is. The reason being is that the axle only supports part of the load, the other part is supported by the tow vehicle via the tongue which is about 10-15%. This is a common mistake among towers when reviewing their load ratings and a very common question we get. You're always rated to the weakest component so even if you were to upgrade axles you'd have to do the springs, wheel/tires, etc as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub
- Standard
- 25580
- 15123
- For 6000 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 17 Inch Wheel
- 17-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 18 Inch Wheel
- 18-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Bearings For Older Trailer Hub 22834
- Q&A: Availability of 5,200 lb Axle With Idler Hubs
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: How To Tell Apart 5,200 lb, 6,000 lb and 7,000 Axles
- Q&A: Replacement Bearings 2788 and 1779
- Q&A: Replacement Trailer Bearing for L44640
- Q&A: Idler Hub for Lippert 7k Axle that Has 6-Bolt Pattern
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Trailer Axle and Spindle
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Bleed Your Trailer Surge Brakes
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Article: Printable Trailer Bolt Hole Pattern Template