Ditch Witch MV800 - Manual (Page 105)

T
IRE
S
AFETY
I
NFORMATION
1.1. STEPS FOR DETERMINING CORRECT LOAD LIMIT – TRAILER
Determining the load limits of a trailer includes more than understanding the load limits of the tires
alone. On all trailers there is a Federal certification/VIN label that is located on the forward half of
the left (road) side of the unit. This certification/VIN label will indicate the trailer’s Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the most the fully loaded trailer 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.
If your trailer has a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, there is a vehicle placard located in the
same location as the certification label described above. 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 trailer, up to the maximum weight specified on the placard. The
combined weight of the cargo is provided as a single number. In any case, remember: the total
weight of a fully loaded trailer can not exceed the stated GVWR.
When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed evenly 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
trailer is to weigh it at a public scale. Talk to your dealer to discuss the weighing methods needed
to capture the various weights related to the trailer. This would include the weight empty or
unloaded, weights per axle, wheel, hitch or king-pin, and total weight.
Excessive loads and/or underinflation cause tire overloading and, as a result, abnormal tire
flexing occurs. This situation can generate an excessive amount of heat within the tire. Excessive
heat may lead to tire failure. It is the air pressure that enables a tire to support the load, so proper
inflation is critical. The proper air pressure may be found on the certification/VIN label and/or on
the Tire Placard. This value should never exceed the maximum cold inflation pressure stamped
on the tire.
1.1.1. TRAILERS 10,000 POUNDS GVWR OR LESS
Tire and Loading Information Placard – Figure 1-1
1. Locate the statement, “The weight of cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.,” on
your trailer’s placard. See figure 1-1.
2. This figure equals the available amount of cargo load capacity.
3. Determine the combined weight of cargo being loaded on the trailer. That weight may not
safely exceed the available cargo load capacity.