Cargo carrying capacity

jjson775 wrote:
retraite, what you say is correct, the Ford has a short wheelbase and a long overhang at the rear. However, this would be considered in determining the allowable load on the rear axle, so presumably the Chevy would have a higher allowable rear axle load. wsfurrie says he is very close to the factory allowable on his van so I am still interested in hearing from him. Thanks

Jim

While I don't know the Ford's rear axle limit, the Chevrolet is 6,000 lbs. 4,300 lbs. for the front.

I believe the rear axle limit is constrained not by the axle itself, but by the tires. Load range E tires in the Chevrolet size are rated at 3,042 lbs. each (when in single not dual configuration) and they are inflated to 80 psi. Since the Ford runs load range E, I'd guess it's 6,000 lbs. as well.

But, Wayne is surely right. If one had 6,000 lbs. on the rear axle with, say, 3,500 lbs. on one side and 2,500 lbs. on the other - well they are an accident waiting to happen. Gotta move something around.

Wayne is also very correct to say that one should weigh their vehicle, individual axles and individual wheels to be SURE they are all within limits when the vehicle is loaded for the road - fuel, water, propane, people, pets, stuff, more stuff and finally that other stuff. Everything. I.e., fully loaded with ACTUAL weights, not estimated weights.

And then, keep a close eye on tire pressures throughout one's trip.

'Tis all about stayin' safe and gettin' there and home in one piece.

Cheers.