The Effects Of
Additional Weight
On A Vehicle
Never underestimate how weight and excessive weight
play a major impact on a vehicle’s drivability.
WORDS BY PEDDERS
1. Chassis Dynamics 3. Braking Efficiency and Distance:
The Pitch, Roll and Yaw (The front to back,
side to side and rotational motion) of the
vehicle body over the wheels and in particular
the reaction of these movements to driver
input. Increased weight changes the speed
and magnitude of these movements and
creates a greater disconnect between driver
input and vehicle response. Increased Total Weight creates a magnification
of energy and force onto the vehicles braking
system which in turn generates increased heat
and stress. Increasing total Weight and/or
Inconsistent Vehicle Loading has a significant
impact on brake performance, braking longevity
and most importantly braking distance.
2. Suspension Travel:
The available upward (compression or bump)
and downward (rebound) range of movement
within the vehicle’s suspension system.
Increased weight (typically seen with rear
sagging caused by heavy loads) decreases
the available compression travel for normal
suspension operation thus increasing the
frequency and severity of contact with the bump
stops. This causes harsh ride characteristics,
ineffective suspension control and increased
risk of premature wear and tear on steering and
suspension components.
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4. Tyre Contact and Steering Effectiveness
Towing and other increased rear end loads cause
longitudinal weight transfer which reduces weight
over the front axle. The result of this is reduced
front tyre contact and grip with the road reducing
the responsiveness of steering and braking to
driver inputs and more specifically allowing the
front of the vehicle to wander or float.