Difference between rated cargo capacity and calculated capacity

[Triskal]

I have a 2008 Exp Limited 4x4 with the Class III hitch. We are looking at buying a hybrid camper and most are in the 3000-4500lbrange. Our kids are older and there are 3 of them. All together people and dog weigh ~1000lbs. The sticker in the door jam says that occupants and cargo should not exceed 1185 lbs. Trailer tongue weight is included in that and most that I am looking at are 300-400lb range - so that puts me over cargo capacity.

However, if the internet is to believed my curb weight is 4606lbs. The other sticker says I have a GVWR of 6,190lbs. Subtracting curb weight from GVWR gives me a cargo capacity of 1584. Even subtracting 140lbs for a full tank of gas (which I don't know if they included in curb weight) I get 1,444 cargo capacity.

So what am I to believe about my cargo capacity?

 

[MNgopher]

What is the source of the curb weight and how does it relate to your limited?

Here is the hint: Nearly every option added above a base model adds weight. And the optional feature weight gets taken from your cargo capacity. These weight lists are easy to find for the F150. Not so sure how easy it is to find for an older explorer now.

I'd believe your sticker cargo capacity.

 

[94Eddie]

I would suggest filling up the fuel tank, emptying the vehicle and getting it weighed. This removes all doubt. You can probably get this done for free of for little cost.

 

[Explorer_PL]

My 06 EB with v8, 3 rows has GVW of 6200. The yellow sticker tells me my payload of 1180. That gives me the curb of 5000 according to those numbers.

I pulled various trailers and went on CAT scales few times. The 5000 number was pretty accurate in my case.
If you use WD hitch, you should be OK, just take those turns slowly.
The rear bearings don't like the lateral load that the tongue is creating when turning.