oklahomamike wrote:
DW-gray wrote:
oklahomamike wrote:
2012 Newmar X-Aire 40DSBR pulled by 2010 Dodge 3500
Loaded ready to go with fuel and water but no toys in garage.
Gross Trailer Weight 19,100
Pin Weight 3,980
Truck weight 9,200
Steer Axle 4,960
Drive Axle 8,540
Trailer Axle 14,800
Gross combined weight 28,300
You may want to consider visiting Fifth Wheel St. and enter some numbers in the Safety Report.
I agree I would benefit from a bigger truck. That is a very good web site you pointed me to I will check it out this evening. I am 540# under FAWR and 1210# under RAWR on truck of course I am over on GCVWR. I am concerned about safety and keep my equipment in top condition and limit speed to 60 mph when towing. What are the weights on your rig it looks close to what I have.
First, let me share one of the information paragraphs in my new app available for the iPhone:
If any of your safety margins are displayed in RED, then you are towing with a potential driving hazard. It's your responsibility to consider what you think is safe for your towing situation, whether it’s 4 pounds overweight or 4000 pounds overweight. You need to take a careful look at how your vehicles are loaded. You may need to remove or relocate some items to better balance the load. In some instances, you may need to purchase a tow vehicle with higher towing capacity or purchase a trailer with less gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).I think it's much better know what your towing weight is, even if it is over any of the load ratings. At the very least, a RVer can be aware and drive accordingly and be prepared for safer driving. Driving blindly without knowing the weight of your rig is far more dangerous in my opinion.
Like you, I'm well under my axle ratings and I'm still over on the GCWR. I'm still working on that issue. But, as far as I know, no state is concerned about the GCWR. They only look at the GAWRs. In California, there is a stopping requirement. I don't remember the details. I tested my rig based on the CA requirements and I was able to stop well less than the maximum distance.
Therefore each knowledgeable RVer has to decide if they are towing safely with their rig. As for my experience with my Ram truck, it is grossly underrated.
I also agree that a maximum of 60 mph is the right choice. I set my cruise control for 58 mph (1,500 rpm in 6th gear) which I found to be my most economical highway speed for my truck and I feel safe at that speed.
