Why Is a Trailer Axle Not Rated for the Full GVWR of the Trailer

Updated 11/29/2021 | Published 11/26/2021

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.

expert reply by: Conner L