Rig Stability & Center of Gravity Calculator
Estimate how tall, heavy, and loaded your expedition rig is — and what that does to its tip-over resistance.
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Tanks
People
Gear & placement
On the roof
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See it on a side slope
How the rigs compare (empty)
These are estimates — not safety ratings. Center-of-gravity heights are modeled from published specs and documented assumptions; every actual build differs with options, materials, and cargo. Real-world stability also depends on suspension, tires, terrain, speed, driver input, and load shift — and vehicles can roll well below the theoretical static tip angle. Never use this tool to judge whether a slope can be driven. Verify all specifications with the manufacturer.
How is this estimated?
Where do the numbers come from?
Each rig is modeled as two masses: the truck or van chassis under it (published weight and a typical center-of-gravity height for that platform) and the camper body (the rest of the curb weight, centered low in the box — camper interiors carry tanks, batteries and cabinetry near the floor). Whatever you add in the form is stacked on top at a realistic height: water near the floor, people at seat height, roof loads above the roofline.
What is the "static tip angle"?
The theoretical side slope at which a rigid, stationary vehicle's center of gravity passes over its downhill tires. It's a comparison metric, not a driving limit — dynamics, tire and suspension flex, and load shift mean real vehicles can roll at meaningfully shallower angles.
Why a range instead of one number?
Because the center-of-gravity height is an estimate. We show the spread that results from a ±12% band on the estimated CG height, and we'd rather be honest about that than pretend to single-degree precision.
Why does a roof box hurt more than a full water tank?
Leverage. Weight added above the roofline raises the combined center of gravity far more per pound than the same weight sitting on the floor. Fill tanks low, rack light.
Checking weights instead of balance? Use the Payload Calculator.