How to Increase the GCWR on an E-450
Every vehicle has a gross combined weight rating. Most often, this is abbreviated as GCWR. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines GCWR as the "permissible combined weight of the tow vehicle, trailer, passengers, equipment, fuel, etc., that the vehicle can handle." The NHTSA sets gross vehicle weight ratings to ensure safe driving and braking. On the Ford E-450, the GCWR is 22,000 pounds. Increasing the GCWR of the Ford E-450 may be done, but it is generally not recommended nor legally considered an increase in the established GCWR.
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Instructions
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Add air bags. Suspension air bags are air helper springs that help you maximize the E-450's carrying capacity through the application of air pressure, but they are mainly concerned with making the load ride better.
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Add a leaf. A suspension assist leaf provides load support through the use of air pressure. The leaf improves E-450 steering control, side-to-side or front-to-rear adjustment and the load-carrying ride.
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Replace the standard E-450 springs with super springs. Super springs are load-leveling springs that adjust to added weight by shifting to a new point of least resistance. Super springs enhance load carrying capacity, handling and towing capability.
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Install a weight-distribution hitch. A weight-distribution hitch adds spring bars to the hitch system. The bars apply leverage between the tow vehicle and trailer. The leverage distributes the load sitting on the rear of the towing vehicle to all the axles of the vehicle and trailer. Note that the weight-distribution hitch usually weighs more than the ball hitch.
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Tips & Warnings
When pulled over or in any accident, adding air bags, leafs, larger tires or 1-ton axles will not change the fact that your E450 exceeds its GCWR.
