How to Determine GVWR for 68 Caravel

[SilverWind]

I'm trying to determine the GVWR for my 68 Caravel. Airstream lists two sets of dry/hitch weights for the trailer, 2460/330 and 2340/270. They do not specify a GVWR or net carrying capacity.

I'm wondering if the Dexter axle weight rating along with appropriate tire pressures are the determining factors, or is there something else in play here?

The Dexter axle is rated at 3500 and is paired with Goodyear Endurance Tires which can be pressure adjusted for weight.

I weighed the Caravel, loaded for camping. With full water and propane, clothes, food, accessories etc. the trailer weighed in at 2950. Hitch/tongue weight, using two different Sherline scales averages 590 pounds.

The RAM 2500 weighs, front axle 4840 and rear 4860, loaded for camping. It is equipped with auto rear air leveling so no weight distribution system called for.

[SilverWind]

Originally Posted by SilverWind

I'm trying to determine the GVWR for my 68 Caravel. Airstream lists two sets of dry/hitch weights for the trailer, 2460/330 and 2340/270. They do not specify a GVWR or net carrying capacity.

I'm wondering if the Dexter axle weight rating along with appropriate tire pressures are the determining factors, or is there something else in play here?

The Dexter axle is rated at 3500 and is paired with Goodyear Endurance Tires which can be pressure adjusted for weight.

I weighed the Caravel, loaded for camping. With full water and propane, clothes, food, accessories etc. the trailer weighed in at 2950. Hitch/tongue weight, using two different Sherline scales averages 590 pounds.

The RAM 2500 weighs, front axle 4840 and rear 4860, loaded for camping. It is equipped with auto rear air leveling so no weight distribution system called for.

To restate the question in general trailer carrying capacity terms. Does the axle weight capacity rating set the carrying capacity limit of the trailer or are there other factors about the trailer involved when determining how much you can carry?

Does it follow that the 3500 Dexter axle capacity minus 'loaded for camping' weight at the scales of 2950 mean that I have a 'headroom' of 550 pounds carrying capacity?

[kpm]

Originally Posted by SilverWind

[...] The RAM 2500 weighs, front axle 4840 and rear 4860, loaded for camping. It is equipped with auto rear air leveling so no weight distribution system called for.

Air bags aren't necessarily a replacement for a weight distribution hitch. The loaded weight on the front TV axle should be 50-100% of the weight when unloaded.

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
As noted above 'auto-leveling' has little to do with WD.
It just negates TV rear end squat.

WD bars are what transfers the needed weight.

If you are not concerned with WD....ignore this post.

Bob
🇺🇸

[SilverWind]

WD is not a concern in this case.

I'd simply like to know how to calculate the net carrying capacity of the trailer.

Airstream did not state a net carrying capacity in 1968, only a 'weight'.

I only have the 'loaded for camping weight' of the trailer of 2950 plus the Dexter axle weight capacity of 3500.