Truck Camper Wet Weight Calculation: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to calculate truck camper wet weight

Knowing how to calculate the wet weight of a truck camper is essential for ensuring a proper match between your truck and camper. Wet weight calculations factor in the weight of the camper itself, as well as the weight of fluids, cargo, and occupants. To calculate the wet weight, you'll need to start with the manufacturer's base dry weight and then add the weights of various components and cargo. This includes the weight of full water tanks, a full water heater, full propane tanks, batteries, and personal belongings. Properly matching the wet weight of your truck and camper will ensure optimal performance, safety, and minimise wear and tear on your vehicle.

Characteristics Values
Camper dry weight The weight of the camper when it left the factory, including fridge, stove, and other manufacturer-installed options. Typically includes a single battery.
Camper wet weight The camper's weight with full holding tanks, including fresh water, hot water, and propane.
Truck weight capacity ratings The loaded weight of the vehicle plus the loaded weight of any trailer it tows.
GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating – the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
GAWR Gross Axle Weight Rating – the load-carrying capacity of a single axle system. There is a separate rating for the front and rear axles.
CGVWR Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating – the loaded weight of the vehicle plus the loaded weight of any trailer it tows.
Support equipment Air springs, cabover shocks, and special truck shocks can improve truck and camper package handling.
Cargo weight The weight of supplies, personal gear, and other cargo carried in the camper or truck.

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Calculate the weight of full propane tanks

To calculate the weight of full propane tanks, you need to know the weight of the propane and the weight of the empty tank.

The weight of a full propane tank can be calculated using the following formula:

Weight of propane = Volume of propane (in gallons) x 4.24

For example, a 30-gallon propane tank weighs approximately 127.2 lbs when full (30 x 4.24 = 127.2).

To find the weight of the propane, you can weigh the full tank and subtract the weight of the empty tank. This will give you the weight of the propane alone.

It's important to note that propane tanks are not filled to their full capacity for safety reasons. A commonly used standard propane tank has the following specifications:

  • 10-pound propane tanks weigh 15 pounds empty and hold 2.4 gallons (10.08 pounds) of propane.
  • 20-pound tanks weigh 18 pounds empty and hold 4.6 gallons (19.32 pounds) of propane.
  • 30-pound tanks weigh 25 pounds empty and hold 6.8 gallons (28.56 pounds) of propane.

So, if you have a 20-pound propane tank, the total weight of the full tank would be approximately 37.32 pounds (18 lbs empty tank + 19.32 lbs propane).

These calculations are essential when determining the wet weight of a truck camper, which includes the weight of all liquids, cargo, and occupants. By ensuring that your truck and camper are properly matched, you can enhance safety, performance, and avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle.

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Add the weight of a full fresh water tank

To calculate the wet weight of a truck camper, you must first calculate the dry weight. This is the total weight of the camper when it left the factory and includes the fridge, stove, and other manufacturer-installed options. However, it does not include water, propane, food, or gear. Many manufacturers understate the dry weight, so if you cannot confirm the actual weight, it is recommended to add 5% to 10% to the stated amount.

Once you have the dry weight, you can calculate the wet weight by adding the weight of a full fresh water tank, a full water heater, full propane tanks, installed batteries, and cargo weight.

To calculate the weight of a full fresh water tank, you need to know the gallon capacity of the tank. The weight of one gallon of water is 8.34 pounds. So, for example, if a camper has a 15-gallon fresh water tank, the weight of that tank when full is 125.1 pounds (15 x 8.34).

Most truck campers will have a freshwater holding tank capacity of between 30 and 45 gallons. However, this can vary depending on the size and class of the RV. A class A RV will typically hold between 75 and 100 gallons of water, while a class C RV will hold 35-60 gallons, and a class B will hold around 20-40 gallons. Smaller trailers will typically hold 40-60 gallons.

In addition to the weight of the water itself, you also need to consider the weight of the tank. The weight of a freshwater tank will depend on the material it is made from. Common materials include polyethylene, ABS plastic, and metal for larger tanks. Polyethylene is a lightweight, non-toxic plastic that is resistant to cracking. ABS plastic is slightly heavier and is known for its toughness and impact resistance. Metal tanks are the heaviest option and are typically used in larger RVs or custom applications.

When calculating the total weight of your truck camper, don't forget to include the weight of other liquids such as propane and the weight of installed batteries and cargo.

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Include the weight of a full water heater

When calculating the wet weight of your truck camper, it's important to include the weight of a full water heater. This is because the weight of liquids can add up quickly and significantly impact the overall weight of your vehicle.

To calculate the weight of a full water heater, you need to know the capacity of your water heater tank and the weight of water. The standard weight for water is 8.34 pounds per gallon. So, if your water heater has a capacity of 6 gallons, the weight of a full water heater would be 50.04 pounds (6 gallons x 8.34 pounds).

It's important to note that some truck camper manufacturers include the fresh water capacity of the water heater in their marketing materials. This means that if your camper has a 34-gallon fresh water tank and a 6-gallon water heater, the manufacturer might advertise it as having 40 gallons of fresh water. In this case, you should be careful not to include the weight of the same 6 gallons of water twice in your calculations.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that not all water heaters have a tank. Tankless or on-demand water heaters heat water as it passes through the system, rather than storing it in a tank. If your truck camper has a tankless water heater, you don't need to worry about calculating the weight of the water in the heater.

When calculating the wet weight of your truck camper, make sure to include the weight of a full water heater, as well as the weight of fresh water, propane tanks, batteries, and other liquids or items on board. This will help ensure an accurate calculation of your vehicle's wet weight.

By considering the weight of a full water heater and other factors, you can make informed decisions about matching your truck with a compatible camper, ensuring safety, performance, and avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle.

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Factor in the weight of the truck camper's battery

The weight of the truck camper's battery is an important factor to consider when calculating the wet weight of your truck camper. The battery weight can vary depending on the type, size, and number of batteries installed. Here are some tips and considerations for factoring in the weight of the truck camper's battery:

Different Types of Batteries

There are several types of batteries commonly used in truck campers, including lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), and lithium-ion batteries. The weight of these batteries can vary due to their construction and chemistry. Lead-acid batteries, also known as wet cell batteries, are typically the heaviest option. AGM batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, making them a popular choice for truck campers. Lithium-ion batteries are the lightest option and offer the highest energy density, but they come with a higher price tag.

Battery Sizes and Group Sizes

Truck campers typically use batteries in Group 24, Group 27, Group 31, or 6-volt golf cart battery sizes. The weight of these batteries can range from approximately 50 pounds for a Group 24 battery to 70 pounds for a Group 31 battery. 6-volt golf cart batteries can weigh around 65 pounds each. When calculating the wet weight, consider the size and weight of the specific batteries installed in your truck camper.

Number of Batteries

Some truck campers may have multiple batteries installed, especially if they are used for boondocking or dry camping. Each additional battery will add to the overall weight. If your truck camper has two or more batteries, be sure to include the weight of all the batteries in your calculations.

Battery Weight in Wet Weight Calculation

When calculating the wet weight of your truck camper, be sure to include the weight of the batteries. The wet weight includes the weight of the camper with all fluids (fresh water, propane, etc.) and installed options, including batteries. Refer to the manufacturer's specifications or weigh the batteries directly to get an accurate weight for your calculations.

Example Wet Weight Calculation

Let's walk through an example wet weight calculation, including the weight of the batteries:

  • Dry weight of the truck camper: 3,320 pounds
  • Fresh water capacity: 40 gallons
  • Weight of fresh water (40 gallons x 8.34 pounds per gallon): 333.6 pounds
  • Water heater capacity: 6 gallons
  • Weight of water heater (6 gallons x 8.34 pounds per gallon): 50 pounds
  • Propane tank weight (2 x 20-pound tanks): 40 pounds
  • Battery weight (2 x Group 27 batteries x 60 pounds each): 120 pounds
  • Owner's cargo allowance: 500 pounds

Wet weight calculation:

> 3,320 pounds (dry weight) + 333.6 pounds (fresh water) + 50 pounds (water heater) + 40 pounds (propane) + 120 pounds (batteries) + 500 pounds (cargo) = 4,363.6 pounds (wet weight)

In this example, the wet weight of the truck camper, including the weight of the batteries, is 4,363.6 pounds. Remember to adjust the calculations based on the specific weights and capacities of your truck camper and its components.

By considering the weight of the truck camper's battery and including it in your wet weight calculations, you can ensure a more accurate understanding of your truck camper's overall weight. This information is crucial for proper weight distribution, matching your truck and camper, and ensuring safe and comfortable travels.

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Account for the weight of your personal belongings

When calculating the wet weight of your truck camper, it's important to account for the weight of your personal belongings. This can vary widely depending on what you plan to bring with you. It's a good idea to make a list of everything you'll be bringing, including clothes, food, kitchen supplies, bedding, toiletries, cameras, computers, and any other items you deem necessary. Then, you can estimate the weight of each item or category of items.

Some sources suggest that 500 pounds is a good estimate for personal belongings for two people. However, this can vary depending on how much space you have and how much you plan to bring. For example, if you're bringing a lot of outdoor gear or hobby equipment, your weight in this category might be higher. On the other hand, if you're conscious of packing light, you might be able to get away with less.

To get an accurate estimate, you can weigh your belongings before loading them into the camper. This will give you a precise number to work with. However, if you don't have access to a scale, you can make educated guesses about the weight of each item and add them together.

Remember to include the weight of any pets and their supplies if you're bringing them along, as well as the weight of any tie-downs, turnbuckles, and bed mats you'll be using.

By carefully considering and accounting for the weight of your personal belongings, you can ensure that your truck camper setup is safe and within the recommended weight limits.

Frequently asked questions

A truck's wet weight is the total weight of the vehicle when loaded with all equipment and passengers. This includes the base dry weight, full fresh water weight, full hot water heater weight, full propane tank weight, battery weight, and weight of cargo and passengers.

To calculate the wet weight of your truck camper, you will need to add the dry weight, full fresh water weight, full hot water heater weight, full propane tank weight, battery weight, and weight of cargo and passengers. You can use the Truck Camper Magazine Buyers Guide's standardized equation to help you with these calculations.

The formula for calculating the wet weight of a truck camper is:

> Dry weight + full fresh water weight + full hot water heater weight + full propane tank weight + battery weight + weight of cargo and passengers = wet weight

When calculating the wet weight of your truck camper, it is important to consider the weight of all optional equipment and passengers, as well as the weight of the truck camper itself. Additionally, the weight of water, propane, batteries, and cargo can vary depending on usage and should be estimated accordingly.

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