Gcwr

[JimScott]

I see a lot of discussion about not exceeding the GCWR when towing, but there is no such number on my truck's label nor is there a towing capacity number on the label. Only GVWR. This basically means that there is no way a local law enforcement official is going to know if you are towing too much unless you have a high hitch weight. Or, is there another label somewhere I can't find?



Jim

 

[klenger]

You are exactly 100% correct. The law enforcement folks have no idea, nor do they care, what the GCWR is becasue it is an unpublished number and is dependent on rear axle ratio. It's not even listed in the owner's manaul as far as I know. The only published numbers are the GVWR and GAWRs.

 

[RMcCulloch]

They'll look at (1) how much sagging there is on the truck, (2) the GVWR on the sticker, (3) the GVWR of the trailer [they'll check with the licensing folks], and, then, break out the scales.



LE has never "heard" of GCWR and consider, as Ken said, GVWR and GAWR for both truck and trailer(s).

 

[cwsoules]

My GCWR is listed in my Owners Manual and the dealer can find it if they look hard enough. I worry about it only when considering whether it is safe to tow my 5th wheel. (It is I'm under the GCWR)

 

[GAmes]

I was recently pulled over for a 100% safety insp by the Wyoming DOT. He looked at the GVWR tag on th truck and the GVWR tag on the tlr. He wasn't the least bit concerned about the "sagging". I have USDOT numbers displayed, or else I would have been left alone. If you are not commercial you have no reason to fear being pulled over by the law. GCWR is only a factor in turning down warranty work at the dealer in my opinion. Oh, one more thing, my GCWR as per my owners manual is 20k, but the max tlr I can hook up is 11,900. Since the truck only weighs about 7500 I've lost about 600 lbs of usage. I personally ignore GCWR, what you do is your decision.

 

[jimnance]

Wouldn't worry too much about GCVWR except;



If you have an accident and someone is hurt the attorney for the injured party is going to make a big deal about being over the manufacturers combined weight rating. He'll argue that you were operating in an unsafe condition.



You need to consider the fact that you are over the recommended weight and drive accordingly.



IMHO, if law enforcement wants to cite you they'll find something else or cite you for operating in an unsafe manner. They could say you were weaving, excessive lane changes, etc. . If they really want you they'll get you. In that sense GCVWR is the least of your worries.



I do pull about 1,700 lbs over GCVWR, but my GVWR, and axle weights are all fine. I just try to remember that I am very heavy and drive that way.



Your mileage may vary.