Tires for light trucks have other markings besides those found on the sidewalls of passenger tires.
LT -
Indicates the tire is for light trucks or trailers.
ST -
Indicates the tire is for trailer use only.
Max. Load Dual kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold -
Indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used
as a dual; that is, when four tires are put on each rear axle (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle).
Max. Load Single kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold -
This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure
when the tire is used as a single.
Load Range -
This information identifies the tire’s load-carrying capabilities and its inflation limits.
Vehicle Load Limits
Determining the load limits of a vehicle includes more
than understanding the load limits of the tires alone.
A Federal certification label is located on the forward
half of the roadside (left) of the unit.
The certification label will indicate the vehicle’s gross
vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the most
weight the fully loaded vehicle can weigh. It will also
provide the gross axle weight rating (GAWR). This is
the most a particular axle can weigh. If there are
multiple axles, the GAWR of each axle will be
provided. In the same location as the certification label
described above, there is a vehicle placard. This
placard provides tire and loading information. In
addition, this placard will show a statement regarding
maximum cargo capacity.
Cargo can be added to the vehicle, up to the maximum
weight specified on the placard. The combined weight
the cargo is provided as a single number. In any case,
remember: the total weight of a fully loaded vehicle
can not exceed the stated GVWR.
The weight of fully filled propane containers is
considered part of the weight of the RV before it is
loaded with cargo and is not considered part of the
disposable cargo load. Water however, is a cargo
weight and is treated as such. If there is a fresh
water storage tank of 100 gallons, this tank when
filled would weigh about 800 pounds. If more cargo
is being transported, water can be off-loaded to keep
the total amount of cargo added to the vehicle within
the limits of the GVWR so as not to overload the
vehicle
Distribute the cargo evenly when loading to prevent
overloading front to back and side to side. Heavy
items should be placed low and as close to the axle
positions as reasonable. Too many items on one
side may overload a tire. The best way to know the
actual weight of the vehicle is to weigh it at a public
scale. Talk to your RV dealer to discuss weighing
methods needed to capture the various weights
related to the RV. This would include weights for
the following: axles, wheels, hitch or pin (in the
case of a trailer) and total weight.
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