Shortwave Sportfishing wrote:
I can't seem to find a solid answer for this, so I thought I'd seek
the collective wisdom of the group.

To wit:

A trailer rated for 4600 lbs GWR means that it will handle up to 4600
lbs of weight - including the trailer.

Now in my world, it seems to me that a "safe" load would be, say 80%
of the max rating including the trailer. But I can't find a
specification or recommendation that states the exact percentage of
what is considered a "safe" load.

Tom, I'll bet money that structurally, the manufacturer has already
included a *factor of safety*. In building systems, for example, there
is a factor of safety for different components, like roof, walls,
foundations, etc.. I"m betting your trailer is the same to cover the
collective behind!

I know I'm over complicating this some what, but I'm just trying to
cover all my bases.

Don't blame you, I would too!

Tom,

The number provided is the number to avoid exceeding. Putting some
additional safety factor in play simply causes over specing or over buying.
Why do that when the manufacturer does it for you?

Butch
"basskisser" wrote in message
oups.com...

Shortwave Sportfishing wrote:
I can't seem to find a solid answer for this, so I thought I'd seek
the collective wisdom of the group.

To wit:

A trailer rated for 4600 lbs GWR means that it will handle up to 4600
lbs of weight - including the trailer.

Now in my world, it seems to me that a "safe" load would be, say 80%
of the max rating including the trailer. But I can't find a
specification or recommendation that states the exact percentage of
what is considered a "safe" load.

Tom, I'll bet money that structurally, the manufacturer has already
included a *factor of safety*. In building systems, for example, there
is a factor of safety for different components, like roof, walls,
foundations, etc.. I"m betting your trailer is the same to cover the
collective behind!

I know I'm over complicating this some what, but I'm just trying to
cover all my bases.

Don't blame you, I would too!