thorem

Hi all. I was wondering how to calculate payload weight for my 2017 GLS 450. The sticker by the driver's door says "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed" 1312 lb. Does this reflect the max payload weight? The max payload weight I got from MB website says 1798 lb. Thanks.

mikapen

The sticker on the door pillar is correct. It is based on the factory equipment installed on your vehicle, and is the payload for your specific vehicle.
The M-B website is generic, and would be correct for a base car with no options.

It's good that you are checking the payload, especially if you are towing. Most people think that they can tow 7,700 lbs, but that is usually not the limiting factor. The payload is the limiting factor for most people.

chassis

Driver's door sticker is the guide, and it should be the same as your owner's manual. Do yourself the favor of reading this particular page in your owner's manual. It's there.

For example:
1312 lbs max combined weight of occupants and cargo
- weight of all occupants, dogs, etc. Be honest with the occupant weight. For example if there are 4 x 225 lb people, this removes 900lbs of payload. Something to think about.
= remaining payload weight available for lunches, beach towels, beach chairs, luggage, bikes on the roof rack, etc.

BBPhil

*deleted*

thorem

Thanks. I think that is strange considering the tow capability. So I am not sure if the hitch weight is included in 1312.

BBPhil

sorry, had to delete my earlier comment, still willing to share the spreadsheet for towing.

my GLS 450 is relatively basic (equipment wise) and i specifically chose the 450 over the 550 due to its higher payload rating. the 1,312 is rather disappointing now.
a full tank of fuel makes around 150 lbs of an impact, so that alone can't be it.

the tire weight ratings could be a limiting factor, however, the ones on mine aren't...

curious to find out what the conclusion could be.

chassis

Yes, the hitch tongue weight is included in max permissible load.

Max axle 1 weight + max axle 2 weight = max vehicle weight, also known as Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, GVWR

The tires, brakes, suspension and transmission don't know what's in the vehicle, or what is connected to it.

Read the owner's manual carefully and repeatedly. There is a fair amount of space dedicated to this topic in the book.

BBPhil

GLS 450 4M
ATIC,
GLS 550 4M
ATIC and
GLS 350 d 4
MATIC
Permissible trailer load,
braked (at a minimum gradient-
climbing capability
of12%from a standstill)
7500 lbs
(3402 kg)
Maximum drawbar noseweight
(the drawbar noseweight
is not included in
the trailer load)
600 lbs
(272 kg)
Gross rear axle weight rating
when towing a trailer
3968 lbs
(1800 kg)

out of the manual.

BBPhil

for the spreadsheet data:

hit the scale first time for setup / status quo fully loaded, passengers, cargo, fuel...
second round with WDH disengaged
third round tow vehicle alone (loaded)

this will allow you to figure out the perfect setting on the hitch.

then i always hit the scales before heading out for a trip . extra insurance (if you ever have to argue with your insurance) and at $12.50 good for peace of mind.
luckily i have a CAT scale right where i hit the interstate. and with their mobile app, i don't even have to leave the vehicle to get the results.

thorem

Interesting. Thanks. I have a CAT scale nearby and will try this.

BBPhil

i decided to remove my screenshot of the sheet to avoid misunderstandings and other implications with my trailer and load case.

individual results may vary. here is the blank sheet overview with some GLS450 numbers

thorem

Thanks. Looks like the hitch weight is -237. Is this something we need to worry about?

BBPhil

that's why i put in generic data

your results will vary.

but that number reflects a hooked up trailer without weight distributing bars engaged. when engaged and hooked up properly, the example shows 657 lbs on the hitch.

a 7500 lbs trailer will have 10-15% of that weight on the tongue (depending on where the load in the trailer is positioned).

the WDH will take some of that off and put the weight towards the trailer axle and the tow vehicle front axle.

i don't know what Mercedes' position is regarding WDH's but there is no other way to tow a heavier / longer camper safely without a WDH. (and an anti-sway bar)

here is an example of a WDH:

https://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Dist...All%20Products

thorem

I see. Thanks!