Forum Discussion

outwestbound's avatar
outwestbound
Explorer
Mar 22, 2014

Is a higher TT GVWR better?

If a travel trailer's load (all my cargo, liquids, batts, LP, etc.)PLUS dry trailer weights were hypothetically say 8,200lbs for two TTs I'm considering, but the GVWR on one was 9800 and the other 11,000, wouldn't the higher GVWR be the safest? Ignoring cost, wouldn't the TT with the highest GVWR, even if I don't need to put more cargo in it, essentially be safer due to stronger brake system?
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Mar 22, 2014
    The higher the GVWR and the LESS it's loaded to MAX the wider the 'capacity' safety margin. Less chances of being maxed out/overloaded.

    And as poster above mentioned......mfgs. install axles/tires that are marginal when it comes to capacity.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Mar 22, 2014
    That was one of the main things that sold me on our present TT, it had a lot of extra capacity (almost 4K# of CCC).
    I think it's best so that you have big brakes and suspension and axles that doesn't sag over time.
  • PAThwacker's avatar
    PAThwacker
    Explorer
    Mar 22, 2014
    id go with your logic as well. Some trailers have gvw that are at the limits of the axles/tires ratings.

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