Question

Boat Trailering Guys:,

I have a trailer, rated 7000 lbs GVWR, 5700 lbs net capacity. This is a dual axle trailer for a power cat. The leaf springs are extremely rusty and I want to replace them. I've verified the springs as installed are rated 1400 lbs. This doesn't make sense to me, as I thought the springs would have to be rated 3500 lbs each if the trailer was rated 7000 lbs GVWR. Can you explain the dynamics to me?

Owen

Answered on: 5/2007

The GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the sum of the rated carrying capacity of the trailer plus the wight of the trailer itself. You mentioned that the net carry capacity is 5700 lbs. With a dual axle trailer you have 4 springs (2 per axle). At 1400 lb capacity each you technically have a 5,600 (1400 x 4) lb carrying capacity.

Boat Trailering Guys:Mike