David W Gray

After looking over the Idaho Statutes, Title 49, Chapter 10, it appears that only the tire load limitation is mentioned. This is actually the first I’ve seen like this. I suppose there are other states with similar statutes. The bottom line is; LEOs do not enforce compliance with anything written on the Certification Label. The only laws that pertain to maximum weight mostly apply to the big commercial trucks. Generally, RVers will never come close to reaching those kinds of weight. Therefore… Can an RVer tow or transport loads over the Certification Label weights? Absolutely. Can an RVer modify their vehicle to increase the load or towing capacity? Absolutely. (Here's an article about that: http://goo.gl/gyYtYI) Does everyone need to comply with the results of the RV Tow Check? Absolutely not! RV Tow Check is nothing more than a tool. Is RV Tow Check better than any published towing guide? Absolutely.

Yeah, now that I try to find what I read last month, I can't find it. But I could have misread it anyhow. What I did find is that for the 2013 Ram; they upgraded the frames from 35 ksi steel frame to 50 ksi steel frame. What I thought I read was that the 2500s where upgraded to the same as the 3500s. However, I think I'm set straight on this issue. Therefore, I suppose I could take the frame issue out of one of the weakest link possibilities.

That is partial information. The complete Title 49, Chapter 10 is here. I browsed quickly and there appears to be discussion about other load ratings as well. I'm calling it a night. I'll look into it more tomorrow. It's been a good day.

Oops! Some how when copying and pasting from the chart, I guess I moved the page. I corrected the above. Yes you are correct about the regular cab. Sorry, it's been a busy day. Oh no, it's not nit picking at all. I'm here to learn as well as teach. It's all good for me.

Read the directions. All weight entries are about the tow vehicle. Not the trailer. But this is good to know how some mistakes are made. Site updated.

1. Considering the case between 2500 and 3500 with the identical engine and transmission, here are the most likely weak links that would reduce GVWR and/or GCWR: frame, gear ratio, springs, brakes, wheels, and tires. Starting with the 2014 Rams, the frame is identical for 2500 and 3500. 2. I did not say payload. I said tow rating. There is a difference. But you are right about payload: REGULAR CAB LONG BOX 4X2 ST / TRADESMAN DRW (3500) 6.4L GAS MID DUTY - ESA 6-SPD AUTO 66RFE – DFP Payload = 7,320 Late add: If we based the tow rating for the payload of 7,320 pounds for the truck above @ 20% PW, then it could tow 36,600 pounds if the GCWR was ignored. Not a good idea, you think?

If GVWR is not a legal limit, please cite the law or provide the link to the law that states tire ratings are a legal limit.

I understand. Based on over 30,000 RV weight records from RVSEF, the national average 5th wheel pin weight is 20%. The average TW is a little over 12%. So the percentages used in the app are a very good and safe starting point when purchasing an RV. Current RVSEF data indicates that 60% of all trucks towing an RV exceed at least one rating. The goal of the app is to aid in reducing the high overweight percentage and assist buyers and dealers.

I don't know what you mean by "rv.net style discussion." I, and all vehicle manufacturers, disagree with you. GVWR should never be exceeded on any vehicle. Every manual and website clearly states that. GVWR will be exceeded before the combined GAWR is maxed out. For example, look at RAM's highest tow rated 3500 truck: (Corrected) REGULAR CAB LONG BOX 4X2 ST / TRADESMAN DRW Front GAWR: 5500 Rear GAWR: 9750 Total GAWR = 15,250 GVWR = 14,000 Here is RAM's highest tow rated 2500 truck: REG CAB LONG BOX 4X2 ST/TRADESMAN Front GAWR: 5500 Rear GAWR: 6000 Total GAWR = 11,500 GVWR = 10,000 You can select any vehicle you want. The combined GAWR will exceed the GVWR every time. Therefore, that is the reason emphasis is placed on GVWR and payload for calculating max towing capacity. *The above weights came from RAM's published information.

When subtracting the GVW and cargo/passenger weight from GVWR, that gives you available payload of 810 pounds. Calculating the conventional max towing capacity @12.5% TW, the max tow is 6,480 pounds. 8800 - 7500 - 300 - 190 = 810 available payload Since the calculator uses a percentage to calculate the max tow based on available payload, the results is more affected by lighter payload capacities; even small amouts of changes in weight. The key here is to prevent a vehicle from exceeding the GVWR primarily and then GCWR second.

What is the GCWR, GVWR, GVW and any additional weight you may be adding to the calculator? Maybe I can shed some light on the results you see.