Vehicle Capacity Comparison
So there are lots of numbers to know when buying a truck and trailer. I have recently purchased a truck and camping trailer I knew all these numbers but got a little suspicious once seeing the numbers...
Forum Discussion
skipnchar wrote:
Dot safety plate is prescribed by federal law and standard engineering mathematics are used in computing capacities. There is a LOT more to it than axle size. In determining GVWR numbers they take into account brake system, cooling system and the entire drive line from tranny through axles. it is all a standard formula where the weakest link determines the rating.
I doubt this is what translates into the actual numbers we, the consumer sees. In other countries their vehicles are rated for more than the comparable ones here in the USA. I think most of the numbers have to do with marketing and pushing the consumer to the larger, more profitable vehicle.
That is the reason the Cherokee has a larger GVWR than the RAM 1500 and we know the RAM is far more capable at carrying the weight. Also the 05-07 Superdutys used coil springs in front, so I don't think the weight argument applies too much.
All that said and engine aside, my 3/4 ton 9200GVWR feels much better (more stable) than my 1/2 ton 7000GVWR did pulling the same trailer (about 7500 loaded). So maybe the numbers have some benefit.
