How To Determine Weight Capacity Of Torsion Axles

Published 03/07/2014

Question:

I have a trailer that dosent have a tag or numbers telling how much GVW the trailer can carry. its a tilt trailer for eguipment. how can I figure out the maximun weight I should load and carry. its a tamdem axle trailer , six lug , torsion type suspension. is there a formula I can use, or a web site I can visit....thanks

asked by: Lou

Expert Reply:

Since there can be many combinations of axles with hubs and bolt patterns, the best way to determine your axle weight capacity is by using the part numbers of the inner and outer bearings in the hub. I have attached a photo that shows you where you can locate the part number on your bearings. With this information we can give you a more accurate weight capacity for your axles.

If you cannot find the numbers on your bearings, you can take some measurements on your spindle. this would give you the dimension needed for bearings.

You must also consider the weight of the trailer itself and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer when towing. The GVWR is the maximum weight of your fully loaded trailer. The best way to determine the load capacity of your trailer is to subtract the weight of the trailer when it is empty from the GVWR.

You will want to make sure the gross weight of the trailer should not exceed the towing capacity of your towing vehicle. Your vehicle will have a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). This is the maximum weight that your truck and trailer can weigh together. If you load your vehicle with the cargo and the people you plan on carrying and have it weighed, you can subtract that weight from your GCWR and that will give you the towing capacity.

I have attached a video and also a helpful article for you.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L