Weight of the Trailer Tongue

The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total gross weight of the vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo carried in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If there are a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in the vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight the vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight the vehicle can tow. If towing a trailer, the tongue load must be added to the GVW because the vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See Loading the Vehicle for more information about the vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

Using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A)

Using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B).

After loading the trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper.

If they are not, adjustments might be made by moving some items around in the trailer.

    See also:

    Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
    Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-sh ...

    Reducing Speed While UsingCruise Control
    Press in the set button at the end of the lever until you reach the desired speed, then release it. Each time you do this, you will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. ...

    Selecting the Right Engine Oil
    Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants. Specification Use and ask for licensed engine oils wi ...