Caterpillar Performance Handbook, January 2017, SEBD0351-47

GVWR and GCWR

On-Highway Trucks

GVWR AND GCWR GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This rating is used for a Straight Truck. GCWR = Gross Combination Weight Rating. This rating is used for Tractors with 5th wheels. Procedure to Determine GVWR or GCWR 1) Determine the maximum expected load on each axle (see Weight Distribution section). 2) Select Axles, Suspensions, Brakes, Wheels and Tires that are sized to take the load predicted by the Weight Distribution Study. All components must be rated equal to or greater than the expected axle loading. See Appendix D, E, F, H, I, J, K, and L for component ratings. 3) The lowest rated component for each axle (includ- ing the axle), is the Maximum Axle Rating for that axle. GVWR = Front + Rear + Lift (Axle Rating for each axle) GCWR = Front + Rear + Lift + Trailer (Axle Rating for each axle)

Example: Front Axle Rating Expected Front Axle Load

12,420 lb

Axle rated for

13,200 lb

Suspension rated for

14,000 lb

Wheels rated for

14,000 lb

Tires rated for

13,800 lb

Brakes rated for 14,000 lb In this example the front axle is the lowest rated com- ponent that will carry the load predicted by the Weight Distribution Study. Thus, the Front Axle Rating is 13,200 lb in this example. Bridge Laws Careful attention must be given to laws governing overall weight, maximum axle loading, and axle spacing. These laws are commonly referred to as Bridge Laws, and are different in every State, Region, or Province. This handbook does not cover these laws. The reader is advised to refer to their local Bridge Law formulas.

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