Roof Load Ratings Explained
The Basics:
There are two loads types discussed online and by vehicle manufacturers - These are:
Static load (When the vehicle is stationary.)
The Static loads on most 4wd vehicles are enormous - (Typically over 500kgs) - of course they vary vehicle to vehicle - But 'Static' loads relate to the weight required to collapse the roof - For the purposes of Roof racks and Touring equipment loads - It is fair to say that we can dis-regard Static Loads in respect of causing issue - as the static load rating of most common vehicles will be far greater than the weight of any rack / tent and occupants.
Dynamic loads (Load when the vehicle is Moving).
Dynamic Load ratings are the important ones to consider. They are generated by vehicle manufacturers and Engineers after vehicles are built. Dynamic Load ratings specifically relate to a vehicle's performance when driving and loaded. Testing is done by loaded up the vehicle with weight - and then (under test conditions) driving the vehicle and measuring braking distances and vehicle stability against the results of the same vehicle unloaded.
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The Dynamic Load rating typically will be set at the point where the vehicles braking or cornering performance is compromised.
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Tough Touring Racks - Our work to improve safety and handling.
We've designed our racks to sit as low as we can - thus lower the' centre of gravity...
Or Racks are also Lightweight - With the Roof top tent rack Range typically under 23 Kgs.
As far as the vehicles handling goes - we've also positioned the mounts of the racks forward as far as possible to balance the vehicles cornering ability between the front and rear wheels. Balance is Especially important on Dual Cab utes.
Common vehicle upgrades / enhancements to counder roof load weight that Customers will consider.
Load Rated Off road Tyres with Heavy 8+ Ply sidewalls - Prevent a lot of play through the vehicle when driving on uneven surfaces - and certainly reduce body roll.
Offset rims - 'Steelies' - most Australian States will allow 25mm wider than standard wheels to increase the vehicles stance and stability - These are within the manufacturers allowable guidelines and can improve vehicle 'stance' and stability by widening the track.
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Aftermarket Suspension Upgrades - quality heavy duty suspension, GVM Upgrades - 2" Lift can dramatically improve a vehicles drive off and on the road.
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Insurance and Overloaded roof limits - My Opinion
In the Event that a vehicle rolls over though speed / dangerous driving combined with overloaded /top heavy loads - I'd only makes sense that Insurance companies could find reason not to pay out. - Always drive safely. Adding weight to your vehicle is always going to mean its performace is reduced. Drive accordingly - Lower your speed, increase breaking distance and reduce the counter bevel surfaces your going to tackle. Walk everything first. And keep your family and friends safety at the No1 priority.
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