Increasing the load capacity on a camper

Submitted: Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 12:17
ThreadID: 73710 Views:3059 Replies:3 FollowUps:4
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Hi all. My wife and i have a Coromal F400 camper.It's a single axel independent Alco suspension with 6 leaf springs.Is there any way i can increase the load capacity like thicker axels or by increasing the number of leaf springs.I was advised by Coromal that it is not possible.When we first decided to purchase it i was told the tare weight would be around 1120kg, however i was not advised that when the factory put all the extras on ie: awnings, flys etc the weight soon increased to the max weight of 1320.Therefore we have to be very careful not to overload it with too much else. Hmmmmm
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Reply By: Jethro T - Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 15:02

Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 15:02
If the frame is strong enough you could install bigger springs, or axles.

I would speak to one of the trailer supply places, they will tell you what combinations will work well together.

No use increasing the axle alone if the springs aren't up to the task.

Usually an easy job, unless you need to weld something.

Regards
AnswerID: 391003

Follow Up By: jeep cherokee - Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 15:14

Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 15:14
Thanks J.T i will be contacting a supplier shortly to see if that can be done. Here's hoping :)
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Follow Up By: disco driver - Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 17:53

Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 17:53
Just to add to Jethro's comments:-
Bigger/stronger/heavier springs and axles won't do any good to your camper if the chassis and frame are not up to it.

All that will happen is you will bend the chassis and things like cupboards etc will fall off.

Thus speaks the voice of experience

There is a reason why the manufacturer /dealer advises against such things.
They don't work!

Disco.
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FollowupID: 658853

Reply By: MrBitchi (QLD) - Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 16:13

Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 16:13
It doesn't really matter what springs etc someone puts under it, if the manufacturer won't re-certify it, it will still have the same tare and GVM. Changing the GVM is not just a matter of changing the springs...
AnswerID: 391015

Follow Up By: jeep cherokee - Friday, Nov 13, 2009 at 07:59

Friday, Nov 13, 2009 at 07:59
Thanks all for the feedback.I will see what, if anything can be done, if not i might have to get my wife to leave her vanity case behind :)
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FollowupID: 658922

Reply By: PeterInSa - Friday, Nov 13, 2009 at 15:09

Friday, Nov 13, 2009 at 15:09
I would see a certified engineer, he should be able to look at you camper and decide whether it needs additional springs, upgraded suspension, maybe bigger brakes, different tyres and stronger chassis. I believe in SA this could be done, but estimate the exercise could cost up to $4,500, of which $2,000 going to the engineer. He would approve the changes, you get the job done, he inspects it, takes photos, writes to the Vehicle Rego Department with the spec/photos, they approve after a check (another $xxx) and you away, after rivetting a plate onto the camper stating the Re spec'ed weights etc and quoting the Rego approval number.

I personally would look into selling your camper and buying one that suits you.

Peter
AnswerID: 391129

Follow Up By: jeep cherokee - Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 at 11:42

Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 at 11:42
I tend to agree Peter,after going through all that hassel it would be easier to up grade.Cheers.
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