84 | Section 2 Driving & Safety -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Monarch SE 2004
Cargo Carrying Capacity:
When weighing the motorhome it is important to understand that each
motorhome, even of the same model year, floorplan and length will weigh different
due to options and accessories. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR),
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) and/or Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR) must not be exceeded.
GVWR of the vehicle limits the weight of the entire load combination,
regardless of the mix of water, LP-Gas, passengers, or cargo.
It is important to understand the weighing process is performed in two phases.
The first phase is determining the Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) and the
second to ensure the GVWR is not exceeded when adjusting tire pressures. The
weighing process should start by recording the GVWR from the Federal Weight
Label, then weighing the motorhome unloaded, without passengers and with a full
fuel tank. Engine and transmission fluid levels must be full. This is known as the
Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW). Once this weight has been recorded it can be
subtracted from the GVWR.
Next, begin to calculate the Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC).
Fresh water weight and LP-Gas weight can now be subtracted from the
remaining total line A.
• Water weight is the number of gallons multiplied by 8.3.
• LP-Gas weight is the number of gallons multiplied by 4.2.
A 10-gallon water heater with a 40-gallon fresh tank would total 50 gallons
times 8.3, or 415 pounds.
A 30-gallon LP-Gas tank will have 24 gallons of LP-Gas due to the 80% liquid
capacity. This would mean 24 gallons multiplied by 4.2, or 100.8 pounds.
Next, calculate the Sleep Capacity Weight Rating (SCWR). The manufacturer's
designated number of sleeping positions for the motorhome multiplied by 154
pounds.
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