Gross Vehicle Weight

[BMFS33]

I never paid attention to this while purchasing the vehicle but the available carrying capacity on these vehicles is not much once you start adding up wheels, tires, skids, sliders etc. That is to say nothing of adding a roof rack and cargo. Then you put two people in it and you’re damn near or over capacity. How are you folks handling the math? To finish what I want to do, front bumper, rear bumper, roof rack I’d have to drive it with a remote control before putting bodies in it. Do we simply start looking for ways to increase it? Does adding suspension parts help? I would need a brake solution too…. Just curious on how you work the math and what solutions you may have implemented to address the capacity.

 

[Slippers]

The issue is we don’t know what the weakest link is on the vehicle when it comes to exceeding maximum payload. If you’re in the US there isn’t a way to increase the factory payload on paper, although adding airbags to level the rear or changing the suspension would theoretically help. However the maximum payload might be chosen based on something else like the frame strength or brakes, and not be related at all to the suspension. Only Toyota engineers would know.

People routinely exceed payload on mid size and half ton trucks, and the results can be pretty bad. Wheel bearings wear out faster, frames bend just behind the cab, and bed sides flex outward or even collapse, just to point out a few.

I’d try to stay within 10% of max if you can, and take your vehicle to a set of scales to verify your true loaded weight.

 

[Bad1975]

FYI wheels and tires (Unsprung mass) do not affect payload.

 

[wpage]

In details here... Same since 2024.

2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Towing Capacity​

Specification	Detail
Engine Options	2.4L turbocharged inline-4 + electric motor (i-FORCE MAX), 326 hp combined
Drivetrain	Full-time 4WD with locking center differential
Maximum Towing Capacity	6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity	6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity	N/A
Maximum Payload Capacity	Approx. 1,425 lbs (646 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)	Approx. 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit	Approx. 600 lbs (272 kg)
Hitch Class	Class III
Factory Tow Package	Standard on most trims

 

[GR8Santini]

The LC250 tows well, but there is no way I’m taking it out to combined 11,000 lbs. Not happening. Yes, the LC will pull it easily, but what about everything else? Brakes would be biggest concern, followed by tranny cooling & undersized oil cooler.

 

[RideWithYanu]

Agree we don’t know the weakest link, but as I add weight to mine I definitely intend to improve my braking power. Glad other members are already experimenting with options so that I’ll be more aware of them when ready.

 

[wpage]

Agree we don’t know the weakest link, but as I add weight to mine I definitely intend to improve my braking power. Glad other members are already experimenting with options so that I’ll be more aware of them when ready.

How would braking power be improved? Agree extra weight is a factor and braking while towing a load is a concern.

 

[SPetrone]

FYI wheels and tires (Unsprung mass) do not affect payload.

They may not affect payload but they very directly affect the ability to stop and go.

 

[RideWithYanu]

How would braking power be improved? Agree extra weight is a factor and braking while towing a load is a concern.

Bigger or higher performing brakes, like the GX550 brakes Turbo has been testing, or aftermarket brakes. Member Build - Blue 250 TRD/OEM+ build

 

[GR8Santini]

How would braking power be improved?

• Possibly using different pad compounds is simplest. I just got the TSB w/ new pads a month ago so I’m rolling w/ those for a while. Couple of aftermarket options marketed to be more effective @ heat dispersion. FWIW - I cringe when I hear people change pads to reduce brake dust, as you’re sacrificing something.
• High performance brake fluid. DOT4 fluid compared to DOT3 is rated for a higher rated boiling point, but recommend any fluid change needs to remain compatible w/ Toyota (seals).
• Air flow around the brake assembly. Low speed braking issues on a steep trail may be different than higher speed highway towing, so modifying inner fender liners, front aero features may effect the air flow for those driving modes differently.
• Some wheels are tighter around the brakes than others. A 17” rim & tire may hold heat different than 18-20”. On several of my trailers I’ve switched at time of tire change to larger rims for better brake air flow, & a larger tire that runs cooler.
• Mechanical advantage w/ larger rotors or calipers. Positive to read @turbo8 installed larger GX550 rotors & calipers which worked w/ LC backing plate. Larger rotor & calipers could disperse more heat.