Trailer ?
Senior Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,461
Likes: 1
From: Colorado
The 3.5k GAW refers to the weight rating of each axle
The 8.7k GVW refers to the gross max weight of the trailer loaded.
3.5k axles are very light axles for any goose neck trailer...most have 5.2k, 6k or 7k axles commonly. The weight of the empty trailer is still too tough to determine by the GVW or GAW numbers. The frame and deck as well as construction could differ wildly and the weight could be anywhere from 3k to 7k.
Do you have the title...the curb weight will be listed as CWT or curb weight... this is the empty weight of the trailer. If it is new it will be listed on the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin. If you have neither you can look at the trailer registration it should be printed there as well... or you could always drag it across some scales to see what she weighs.
The 8.7k GVW refers to the gross max weight of the trailer loaded.
3.5k axles are very light axles for any goose neck trailer...most have 5.2k, 6k or 7k axles commonly. The weight of the empty trailer is still too tough to determine by the GVW or GAW numbers. The frame and deck as well as construction could differ wildly and the weight could be anywhere from 3k to 7k.
Do you have the title...the curb weight will be listed as CWT or curb weight... this is the empty weight of the trailer. If it is new it will be listed on the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin. If you have neither you can look at the trailer registration it should be printed there as well... or you could always drag it across some scales to see what she weighs.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
From: Massachusetts
I'm going to assume that it's got dual axles, which will give you a 7000# limit. That's still less than the GVWR for the trailer. That seems a little low for a goose neck horse trailer. What make and model is it? Does it have a dressing room? Steel, aluminum, or aluminum over steel?
A little more info could help in shedding some light here.
A little more info could help in shedding some light here.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
From: Massachusetts
Well, I took a quick look at their website to see what the trailer looks like and I would estimate the weight to be around 3500 - 3750# empty. I hope you're not putting Clydes in there 
Figure 2 horses, tack, water, and other odds & ends and you've maxed out that puppy. You should drive over a scale.
Figure 2 horses, tack, water, and other odds & ends and you've maxed out that puppy. You should drive over a scale.
Member
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
From: Stallings, North Carolina
In general, never trust the manufacturer listed weights for an empty trailer. They always list a bare bones trailer with no options. Best option is to take it across the scales at a nearby truck stop. Generally costs around $8 to $10. Weigh the truck and trailer, then pull off drop the trailer and weigh the truck. Subtract the two and you have your answer. This can also determine the tongue weight too if you subtract the weight on the trailer axles from the total trailer weight. All of these are good numbers to know if you are towing.
