Loading And Unloading The Trailer
Bri-Mar 89
Improper tongue weight (load distribution) can result in loss of control of
the trailer, leading to death or serious injury.
Make certain that tongue weight is within the allowable range.
Be sure to:
• Distribute the load front-to-rear to provide proper tongue weight (see
chart);
• Distribute the load evenly, right and left, to avoid tire overload; and
• Keep the center of gravity low.
5.2 CHECKING TONGUE WEIGHT
To check the tongue weight, the tow vehicle and trailer must be on level
ground, as they will be when the trailer is being towed.
For lighter trailers the recommended method of checking tongue weight
is to use an accessory called a “tongue weight scale.” If a tongue weight
scale is not available from your dealer, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC
at 1-717-263-6116 for assistance.
An alternate method of checking tongue weight involves the use of a
bathroom scale. The loaded trailer must be on a smooth and level
surface, and you must block the trailer wheels, front and rear.
An unrestrained trailer can fall off its support, resulting in serious injury or
death.
Block trailer wheels, front and rear, before checking tongue weight.
For most trailers it is easier to go to a truck stop where there is a
“certified” scale. Pull the tow vehicle only onto the scale and get the
weight. This weight must be less than your tow vehicle’s GVWR. Pull
the trailer onto the scale and decouple it from the tow vehicle, leaving
just the trailer on the scale. Get a “ticket”, which lists the total trailer
Trailers
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