2021 Mallard M180BH listed hitch weight (based on dry or GVWR?)

Renter

Member
Hello,
I've searched this forum and the net in general.

2021 Mallard M180BH listed specs online
Dry weight 3820
GVWR 5400
hitch weight 582

Is the listed hitch weight for the dry weight or the GVWR?
If it's for the dry weight it's 15.24%.
If it's for the GVWR it's 10.78%.

Typically, unless it's specifically listed as "dry hitch weight", it's for the GVWR. I am renting this model in a few weeks and the difference will matter in loading. I thought I'd reach out here because I've yet to hear back from Heartland. Thank you for any model specific information.
 

danemayer

Well-known member
Hi Renter,

Welcome to the Heartland Owners Forum.

Heartland typically gets the weight specs as prototypes of new models are developed. Sometimes the spec is based on a base product that doesn't include packages that are standard at the dealer. So the actual trailer you rent could have a somewhat heavier empty weight, and also a somewhat heavier hitch (tongue) weight. The spec for the hitch weight is based on the empty trailer.

The GVWR is based on the engineering design work. It's the maximum weight the trailer should never exceed when fully loaded. Hitch weight on travel trailers typically runs around 15% of loaded weight. For 5th wheels is can be 20-25%. Most RVers get pretty close to the GVWR once fully loaded, so taking 15% of the GVWR will get you close.

If you need to try for more precision, each trailer gets weighed at the end of the manufacturing line and a yellow sticker showing actual empty weight is placed inside the entry door frame. If you estimate the added weight of your stuff, the water you carry @ about 8 lbs/gallon, and full propane tanks at about 100 lbs, you'll have an idea of your actual weight. 15% of that will be your approximate hitch weight. One caution: most people underestimate the weight of their stuff.
 

Renter

Member
Update
I called Heartland and spoke with tech support. They confirmed that their listed hitch weight is reflecting their dry numbers. It wasn't what I was looking for but so be it. That answers that question.

My next question is about actual dry weight. I know brochure dry weight is not correct. What can I expect for an actual dry built weight? Are they typically 300 lbs more, 600 lbs more? My truck can pull the full listed GVWR with a 15% tongue weight. It will limit my cargo options.

Have a good weekend!
 

Renter

Member
Can anybody provide some input here? I'm looking for as built weights from the factory. I know the listed dry weights aren't accurate. What are some examples of high and low actual weight comparisons to the brochure dry weight. It doesn't even have to be this model. I have all of the other information I need except the actual weight of the shipped trailer.
Thanks again for your help.
 

david-steph2018

Well-known member
Only way to get the accurate dry weight for your trailer is to get it weighed. Also there should be a sticker, probably on the door frame, that lists your VIN/weight numbers. If you are concerned that this number is not accurate then you should weigh your rig. Some individuals use a CAT scale to weigh their units.
After you pick up from the dealer you could weigh the truck & RV, then drop the RV and reweigh the truck. Then after you get loaded for a trip reweigh your RV, it will be interesting to see how much you place in your RV.
 

Renter

Member
Only way to get the accurate dry weight for your trailer is to get it weighed. Also there should be a sticker, probably on the door frame, that lists your VIN/weight numbers. If you are concerned that this number is not accurate then you should weigh your rig. Some individuals use a CAT scale to weigh their units.
After you pick up from the dealer you could weigh the truck & RV, then drop the RV and reweigh the truck. Then after you get loaded for a trip reweigh your RV, it will be interesting to see how much you place in your RV.

Thanks for the reply.
I'll be renting the unit in June. I don't have access to it to view the sticker and the agency renting it hasn't come through yet. I've already weighed my truck at the local CAT scale. I've weighed everything I want to bring on the trip. I've generated a spreadsheet that has everything in it from the front GAWR to the trailer GAWR. I've currently plugged in a fudge factor of 500 lbs above the listed dry weight for propane, battery and the built sticker weight. I'm under all of my maximum weight limits but getting close on truck payload. I guess it will have to do until I get to the CAT scale. I can trim 250 lbs quickly if necessary. Regardless, have a good weekend.
 
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