Weight
of
the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load
(A)
of
any trailer is an important
weight
to
measure because it affects the total capacity
weight
of
your vehicle. The capacity weight includes the
curb weight
of
the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in
it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And
if
you
will tow a trailer, you must subtract the tongue
load from your vehicle’s capacity weight because your
vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading
Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information about
your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.
A
If
you’re using a “dead-weight” hitch, the trailer tongue
(A)
should weigh
10%
of
the total loaded trailer weight
(B). If you have a “weight-distributing” hitch, the trailer
tongue
(A)
should weigh
12%
of
the total loaded trailer
weight (B).
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see
if
the weights are
proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the limit for
cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification
label at the rear edge of the driver’s door (or see “Tire
Loading” in the Index). Then be sure you don’t go over
the
GVW
limit for your vehicle.
Hitches
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by, and rough roads are a
few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:
0
If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than
2,000
pounds
(900
kg), be sure to
use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch
and sway control
of
the proper size. This equipment
is
very important for proper vehicle loading and
good handling when you’re driving.
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