How to Increase the Weight Carrying Capacity of a 2016 Coachmen Viking 17BHS

Updated 04/17/2018 | Published 04/15/2018

Question:

I have a 2016 Viking 17BH it has a single lippert NV Axle variant V000265443 with GAWR 3315lbs. Dry weight of trailer 2877 payload 732 GVWR 3609 with hitch weight 406. ST 185/80R13 load range D- 1710 lbs. As you can see there is a very small safety range for this combination. What can I do to increase weight carrying capacity of my trailer.

asked by: Robert

Helpful Expert Reply:

The weight capacity of a trailer will always be limited by its weakest component. You can in turn increase the weight capacity of the trailer by upgrading these components. Based on what you provided, the tires rated at 3,420 lbs for the pair are the weakest component and will be what you want to look at first when upgrading. The axle rated at 3,500 lbs is the next weakest component.

In order to upgrade the weight capacity of the tires on your trailer you will need to switch to a larger size. For this, I recommend a ST205/75R15 tire like the Kenda Karrier Radial Trailer Tire with Silver Mod Wheel like part # AM32418DX. These tires have the same 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern that your hubs use and will provide you with a weight capacity up to 4,300 lbs for the pair.

expert reply by: Conner L