Gross Weight Ratings

[Montana_2195]

My F-350 4x4 has a gross vehicle Weight Rating of 9700#. A front axle Gross Axle Weight Rating of 4800# and a rear axle Gross Axle Weight Rating of 6830#. What limits the GVWR to 9700# rather than the sum of the GAWRs or 11630#? Just curious. Thanks in advance. Sierra Bob

[Gonfishin]

Bob, I am sure someone with more knowledge than me will be along shortly. If I had to guess though, it might have something to do with braking ability and other drive train components.
Rick.

[Dave e Victoria]

Braking might be part of it but I suspect it also has to do with the frame and where that weight can be placed. 1) The frame because it may not withstand the total gross weight placed proportionatly over the axles. 2) Placement because they already know what the engine , tranny, etc weigh and can pretty much guess at a range of passenger load. The remaining gross has to go in the bed without exceeding the rear axle rating.

[richfaa]

Hummm just looked at mine 05 F-350..see signature.. Has the 12,6000 GVWR package...however the door sticker rates the GVWR front 4550 and the rear 9,000 for a total of 13,550..which is more than 12,600 what is that all about???

[jerryb]

gvw is rated for the weakest link, usually the tires.