The following truck-camper information has been prepared in accordance with regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It is intended to help current and prospective Toyota Tacoma owners understand proper camper loading, weight distribution, and vehicle capacity requirements. If any part of this information is unclear or you need assistance determining the correct limits for your vehicle, your Toyota dealer can provide additional guidance.
Center of gravity location
The measurements and reference points shown in the illustrations identify the recommended center-of-gravity zone for a properly installed truck camper. Keeping the camper's center of gravity within this area helps maintain appropriate vehicle balance and axle loading.
1. Recommended cargo center-of-gravity location for the applicable cargo weight rating.
2. Rear edge of the truck bed used as the reference point for the illustrated measurements.
Xtra Cab models
Double Cab models with long bed
Double Cab models with short bed
WARNING
Loading precaution
Correct camper positioning is essential for safe handling. If the load is located too far toward the rear, vehicle stability and steering behavior can become unsafe. If the load is positioned too far forward, excessive weight may be placed on the front axle.
Cargo weight rating and proper matching
When the Toyota Tacoma is fitted with a slide-in camper, the truck's total cargo load includes several separate weights that must be considered together. These include the camper manufacturer's stated camper weight, any additional camper equipment installed but not included in that stated weight, all cargo carried inside or on the camper, and the weight of passengers occupying the camper. The combined cargo load must not exceed the truck's specified cargo weight rating. In addition, after the camper is installed and loaded, its center of gravity should remain within the recommended center-of-gravity zone shown for the vehicle.
- Recommended center-of-gravity location zone for the installed camper
- Actual center of gravity of the camper
Cargo weight rating
*: The applicable model code can be found on the vehicle Certification Label.
WARNING
Overloading
Do not overload the vehicle. Excessive cargo weight can seriously affect braking performance, steering response, and overall handling. It may also damage the vehicle, suspension components, wheels, or tires and increase the possibility of tire failure.
Gross axle and vehicle weight ratings
Secure all loose cargo before driving so that items cannot shift and change the vehicle's balance while the truck is moving. After the camper has been installed and fully loaded, take the vehicle to a suitable scale and weigh the front and rear axles separately. The measured load on each axle must remain at or below its corresponding Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The combined front and rear axle loads must also remain within the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) specified for the Toyota Tacoma.
The applicable GAWR and GVWR values are listed on the vehicle Certification Label located on the left-side door latch post. Use the ratings shown on the label for the specific vehicle rather than relying on values from another model or configuration.
If any measured axle load or the total vehicle weight exceeds its permitted rating, redistribute the load or remove cargo until the front axle, rear axle, and overall vehicle weight are all within the specified limits.
Gross axle weight rating
- Maximum permitted Front GAWR
- Maximum permitted Rear GAWR
Gross vehicle weight rating
- Total loaded vehicle weight must not exceed the specified GVWR
GAWR and GVWR
Xtra Cab models
*: The model code for the vehicle is indicated on the Certification Label.
Double Cab models
*1: The applicable model code is shown on the Certification Label.
*2: Vehicles equipped with the SR Package
*3: Vehicles equipped with the SR5 Package
*4: Vehicles with the TRD Sport Package and without the TRD Premium Package
*5: Vehicles with both the TRD Sport Package and TRD Premium Package
*6: Vehicles equipped with the TRD Off-Road Package
*7: Vehicles equipped with the Limited Package