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The table below has “rules of thumb” for proper tongue weight.
In the table below, the second column notes the rule of thumb percentage of total weight of the trailer plus
its cargo (Gross Vehicle Weight, or “GVW”) that should appear on the tongue of the trailer. For example,
a trailer with a gooseneck hitch, with a loaded weight of 12,000 pounds, should have 20-25% (of 12,000
pounds) on the tongue. That is, the example trailer would have 2,400 to 3,000 pounds on its tongue.
Tongue Weight as a Percentage of Loaded Trailer Weight
Type of Hitch Percentage
Ball Hitch (or Bumper Hitch)
10
–15%for large trailers
6-10% for smaller utility and cargo trailers
The numbers quoted above are for example purposes only and should be tailored to the specific trailer.
For questions regarding the actual percent of tongue weight for the trailer, check with the manufacturer
for specifics.
For heavier trailers it is easier to go to a truck stop where there is a “certified” scale. Pull only the tow
vehicle onto the scale and get the weight. This weight must be le
ss 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 weight. Re-connect the trailer to your tow vehicle and the drive the tow
vehicle wheels off the scale, just leaving the trailer axles on the scale. Get a second “ticket”, which lists
the trailer’s axle weight. Simple subtract the axle weight from the total weight to determine the hitch
weight.
While you are at the scale, you should weigh the entire combination vehicle. This result should be less
than the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for your towing vehicle. Some scales allow you to get
individual axle weights also. If this is possible, get the tow vehicles front and rear axle weights to make
sure they are in the same proportion as the tow vehicle alone, and that the rear axle is not overloaded.
This is the best way to check that a weight distribution (or load leveling) hitch is adjusted properly, i.e.,
you have the proper number of chain links attached to the snap-up brackets
.
Improper tongue weight (load distribution) can result in loss of control of the trailer, leading to
death or serious injury.
Make certain that the tongue weight is within 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.
WARNING