Maximum payload calculation

This comes up often on the truck camper threads since we carry so much weight on the rear axle. The manufacturer gives the vehicle a GVWR but this number is only strictly enforced for warranty work. Your state will take the lowest number of one of the following:

1. Weight rating on tires
2. Registered weight on license
3. Maximum road weight limits

The RAWR listed on your vehicle is weakest component rating between frame, axle, suspension and wheels. It may also have some marketing or warranty liability correction factor. If you start to spec out the components in your vehicle, you will find what drives that limit and how much more you can increase by upgrading one or more of the weaker components.

Example: Say you find that your vehicle has a Dana 60 axle with tires rated at 5000 lbs and rims rated at 6000 lbs. Even though the axle is rated over 7000 lbs, you will have a rating of 5000 lbs or less due the lessor component.

Published numbers are bare bones vehicles. Ten as-delivered versions of the same basic vehicle may have ten different final weights, depending on options. All options ARE "payload", and as such must be deducted from the base payload number.

Available payload remaining, and the number that matters, is the one on the door sticker- it's the only number specific to that vehicle.

My opinion is that some manufacturers publish the lowest payload for all trim levels/options for some models instead of calculating the weight of each trim/option and adding to base curb weight. I have heard of other vehicles besides the JGC having all dealer lot vehicles the same tire and loading number.

Personally, I go by the numbers stamped on the door sticker, if I am going to look at numbers at all.
However, LEGALLY, I am bound only by the registered Gross Vehicle Weight.
My truck is registered for a GVW of 5,999 lbs.
THAT is the only number I care about.