I think that Jim has a point. If you look at the FMCSA regs, you will find the following definitions:
Gross axle weight rating or GAWR means the value specified by the vehicle manufacturer as the load–carrying capacity of a single axle system, as measured at the tire–ground interfaces.
Gross combination weight rating or GCWR means the value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a combination vehicle.
Gross vehicle weight rating or GVWR means the value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
Notice that all of the definitions use the manufacturer's numbers. So, what will happen when a LEO needs to decide if a vehicle is overweight or not? In States and Provinces where private vehicle register their weight, no problem: just use the registered weight of the vehicle. But, what about States and Provinces where there is no registered weight for a vehicle? I can see a LEO interpreting the FMCSA regs to say that in the absence of any other definition, the manufacturer's GVWR as the reference point. Note that I amm not suggesting that that is how it is, just that that is how it may be interpreted.
Bert
