Is Your Load Too Heavy?
Are you safely hauling your loads? Unfortunately, you might think the answer is yes, but in reality, the answer is no. To ensure you're practicing safety on the road, it's essential that you know how to avoid a hauling mistake. Learn how to spot some of the signs that indicate your load is too heavy.
If you don't know what your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GWR) is, the likelihood of your load being too heavy is high. The GWR determines the maximum amount of weight that your vehicle can accommodate. Anything over the limit and there is a risk of damage.
Before you ever haul a load, even a small one, you should look at the owner's manual to first determine what your capacity rating is. Make sure you account for the weight of the trailer as well when factoring your load limit.
Sagging in the rear of your truck when you're hauling a load is not normal. If the bed of your vehicle is lower than the front, the load is too heavy. The difference you see in height is the result of the suspension sagging. If not addressed, this sag could result in long-term and costly damage, and not just to your truck.
The sagging in the rear of the truck may also cause your trailer to rest lower, which means it could also scrape or hit the ground. If you make this mistake a regular practice, you could completely destroy your suspension as a result.
While your ride will be different when you are hauling a load, the difference in the ride should not be significant. If your ride is incredibly bouncy, it's also likely that the load is too large. However, it's important to note that if the load is not correctly attached to the gooseneck hitch, it might also sway as you drive.
If you're unsure, check the connection to the hitch first. If it's okay, the problem probably is the weight of the load. Not only is this up-and-down movement annoying, but it can also make controlling the truck harder, especially at higher speeds and when turning.
If you notice a sign that might signal that you're hauling a load that is too heavy, don't ignore the issue. You risk considerable damage to your vehicle, but you also put your safety at an unnecessary and high risk. Don't overlook the warning signs.