Re-registering F-600 for higher GVWR

[Diesel Gopher]

Looking for a little help from the TDR braintrust before I try to call the DMV. I have an old F-600 that is currently a candidate for a cummins re-power. The current GVW is 20,000 lbs, 15,000 on the rear and 5,000 on the front. Does anyone know if I can put a stronger front axle on and up the GVW of the entire vehicle? My desire would be to move up to just under 26,000 GVW.



My goal is to get a driving front axle of 9-11,000 lbs so the vehicle is 4wd, and would have much better modern front disc brakes. The truck currently has a 10 foot dump on it, and I want to stretch the frame to fit a longer hooklift on it. The biggest reason for stretching it would be to get a flatbed that can haul vehicles on it.



I have options to register the truck in either Minnesota or Wisconsin, if that makes a difference (read: makes it easier) one way or another. Thanks in advance for the help.



Matt

 

[HBarlow]

The definitive answer to your question can only be obtained from the DMV office in the state where you plan to register the truck. However, most states including my own, TX, will allow you to register for any weight you choose within a broad range of reason. Registered weight is only the weight you have paid taxes for. The true test might be determined when you drive the truck down the highway loaded and are required to drive across a DOT scale. Generally a DOT officer will allow you the maximum weight that can be carried by the tires. A set of 22. 5" tires like most F-650s have would allow you 5,000 lbs. per tire or 10k on the front axle and 20k on the rear.

You understand, I assume, that you cannot legally change the GVWR established by the manufacturer and listed on a metal plate or decal in the driver's door frame. It is what Ford said it was.

 

[Hoefler]

There is more to just changing axles. When you go to bigger axles, you will need to change out the brake system to match the axles. Primarily the master cylinder and the brake booster or boosters.

 

[Diesel Gopher]

Regarding the brakes etc. , that is half the reason for doing the swap. The truck is a 65 with drum brakes. I am looking for a little heavier duty front axle, possibly a driving axle, not sure on the 4x4 attempt yet. The frame, body and rear axle will be stock 65 parts, the rest of the truck is (hopefully) going to be modern. Cummins power and transmission, disc brakes, new rims and tires, probably better steering system and I have a divorced NP205 to make it drive. Dynatrac makes a custom dana 80 steerable up to 11,000 lbs, and that may be what I go with, if I can afford it.



As to uprating the truck, I found it can be done, but the DOT may be a real pain. I found a local truck shop that can stretch the frame and upgrade the front springs beyond the current 5,000 lb capacity. Getting it certified for more than the original Ford tag is going to be the challenge. I should have time to stop in and chat with the state sometime next week. Thanks for the pointers. I'll update as I can.



Matt