How Much Safety Margin to Allow...If Any?
Hi Everyone,
We have a 2011 Ford Expedition 4x4 with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow package. A few relevant specs:
Axle = 3.31
Max Loaded Trailer Wt = 8,900lbs
GCWR = 15,000lbs
GAWR Front = 3,700lbs
GAWR Rear = 4,250lbs
GVWR = 7,135lbs (5,515 curb wt + 1,620 cargo max)
So the question is...how heavy a loaded trailer can I safely tow? Adding the GVWR + Max trailer gives 16,035lbs...1,035lbs OVER the GCWR.
However, it is very unlikely I will ever cram 1,620lbs of cargo in it. So, lets assume 2 adults (350lbs) + 200lbs cargo and the new GVWR becomes 6,065lbs and the new GVWR + Max trailer Wt = 14,965lbs. Very close to the GCWR.
Is this a concern? Should I consider a 1,000lbs safety margin and limit myself to a 7,900lbs trailer? Should I allow 1,500lbs margin? Is this even necessary?
Thanks in advance.
Frank
We have a 2011 Ford Expedition 4x4 with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow package. A few relevant specs:
Axle = 3.31
Max Loaded Trailer Wt = 8,900lbs
GCWR = 15,000lbs
GAWR Front = 3,700lbs
GAWR Rear = 4,250lbs
GVWR = 7,135lbs (5,515 curb wt + 1,620 cargo max)
So the question is...how heavy a loaded trailer can I safely tow? Adding the GVWR + Max trailer gives 16,035lbs...1,035lbs OVER the GCWR.
However, it is very unlikely I will ever cram 1,620lbs of cargo in it. So, lets assume 2 adults (350lbs) + 200lbs cargo and the new GVWR becomes 6,065lbs and the new GVWR + Max trailer Wt = 14,965lbs. Very close to the GCWR.
Is this a concern? Should I consider a 1,000lbs safety margin and limit myself to a 7,900lbs trailer? Should I allow 1,500lbs margin? Is this even necessary?
Thanks in advance.
Frank
