The terminology can be so confusing when we’re talking about trailer weight. There’s curb weight, gross weight, tare weight, and also tongue weight. So, what is tongue weight?
What is The Tongue Weight of a Trailer?
The tongue weight of a trailer is the downward force exerted by the coupler onto the hitch ball. This force is necessary to keep the trailer from becoming detached from the vehicle and to allow for proper weight distribution across the axle(s) of a trailer.
There are a few different ways to determine the weight, but the most accurate is to use a weight-distribution scale.
Ways to determine the tongue weight
There are a few different ways to determine tongue weight. The following are a few examples:
1. Use a weight-distribution scale
The most accurate way to determine the weight is to use a weight-distribution scale. This scale is designed specifically for weighing trailers and can be found at most RV dealerships or online retailers.
2. Use a regular scale
If you do not have access to weight distribution or a bathroom scale, you can use a standard scale to determine the weight.
To do this, place the scale under the coupler and have someone else hold the trailer level while you get on the scale. The reading on the scale will be the weight.
3. Use the vehicle’s weight
Another way to determine the weight is to use the vehicle’s weight. This method is less accurate than a scale but can be helpful if you do not have access to one.
To do this, divide the trailer’s total weight by the number of axles on the trailer. This will give you an estimate of the weight.
4. Use the trailer’s weight
Another way to determine the weight is to use the trailer’s weight. This method is also less accurate than a scale but can be helpful if you do not have access to one.
To do this, divide the trailer’s total weight by the number of axles on the vehicle. This will give you an estimate of the weight.
5. Use the vehicle’s GVWR
Finally, you can use the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to determine the weight. This method is the least accurate but can be helpful if you do not have access to a scale.
To do this, divide the GVWR by the number of axles on the trailer. This will give you an estimate of the weight.
How much is the tongue weight, too much?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors, such as the type of trailer, the load being carried, and the terrain.
However, as a general rule of thumb, it should be 10 to15% of trailer weight.
How to adjust the weight
You can adjust the weight by doing the following:
1. Move the trailer’s axle(s) forward or backward.
This will change the weight distribution and, as a result, the weight.
2. Add or remove weight from the trailer.
You can change the weight by adding or removing weight from the trailer.
3. Adjust the hitch.
You can also adjust the hitch to change the weight. This is typically done by moving the trap up or down.
4. Use a weight-distribution system.
A weight distribution system helps evenly distribute the weight of the trailer across the axles of the trailer. This can help to reduce the weight.
5. Use a sway control system.
A sway control system helps prevent the trailer from swaying back and forth. This can help to reduce the weight.
6. Use airbags.
Airbags can adjust the vehicle’s level and, as a result, the weight.
7. Use a shock absorber.
A shock absorber helps to absorb the shock of bumps and potholes. This can help to reduce the weight.
8. Use a stabilizer bar.
A stabilizer bar helps to stabilize the trailer and prevent it from swaying back and forth. This can help to reduce the weight.
9. Use a load-leveling system.
A load-leveling system helps to level the trailer and distribute the weight evenly. This can help to reduce the weight.
The weight is an important consideration when towing a trailer. It can also cause the vehicle to dip down or lift at the rear.
Additionally, too much weight can overload the vehicle axles. You can adjust the weight by moving the trailer’s axle(s) forward or backward, adding or removing weight from the trailer, adjusting the hitch, or using a weight-distribution system.
Factors to Consider When Adjusting The Weight
There are a few factors you should consider when adjusting the weight, the following:
1. The type of trailer
Trailers come in all shapes and sizes. As a result, the weight will vary depending on your trailer type.
2. The load being carried
The weight will also depend on the load being carried. If you carry a heavier load, you must adjust its weight accordingly.
3. The terrain
The terrain you are driving on will also affect the weight. If you are driving on a rough road, you must adjust its weight accordingly.
4. The weather
The weather can also affect weight. If it is windy, you must adjust the weight accordingly.
5. The speed
The speed you are driving will also affect the weight. If you are moving fast, you must adjust the weight accordingly.
6. The length of the trailer
The size of the trailer will also affect the weight. If you have a more extended trailer, you will need to adjust the weight accordingly.
7. The width of the trailer
The width of the trailer will also affect the weight. If you have a wider trailer, you must adjust the weight accordingly.
8. The height of the trailer
The size of the trailer will also affect the weight. If you have a taller trailer, you must adjust the weight accordingly.
9. The number of axles on the trailer
The number of axles on the trailer will also affect the weight. If you have a trailer with more than one axle, you must adjust the weight accordingly.
10. The type of hitch
The type of hitch you are using will also affect the weight. If you are using a weight-distributing hitch, you will need to adjust the weight accordingly.
What is the importance of managing tongue weight?
There are a few importance of managing the weight, the following:
1. Prevents trailer sway.
This is the number one importance of managing tongue weight. If the weight is too high, it can cause the trailer to sway back and forth, complicating its control.
2. Maintains proper trailer balance.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps to maintain proper trailer balance. This is important because if the trailer is not balanced, it can cause the vehicle to dip down at the front or lift at the rear, complicating it to break.
3. Reduces stress on trailer axles.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps reduce stress on the trailer axles. This is important because if the weight is too high, it can overload the trailer axles.
4. Improves fuel economy.
Another importance of managing the tongue weight is that it can help improve fuel economy. This is because if the weight is too high, it can cause the vehicle to work harder, which will use more fuel.
5. Helps to prevent trailer bottle-necking.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps prevent trailer bottle-necking. This is important because if the weight is too high, it can cause the trailer to be pushed up into the air.
6. Reduces wear and tear on the vehicle.
This is another importance of managing the weight that it helps reduce wear and tear on the vehicle. This is because if the weight is too high, it can cause the suspension to work overtime, resulting in premature wear and tear.
7. Makes towing safer.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps make towing safer. This is because if the weight is too high, it can make the trailer harder to control, making it more likely to jackknife or fishtail.
8. Helps to prevent accidents.
Another importance of managing the tongue weight is that it helps prevent accidents. This is because if the weight is too high, it can make the trailer harder to control, making it more likely to jackknife or fishtail.
9. It Makes towing easier.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps make towing easier. This is because if the weight is properly balanced, it will make the trailer easier to tow and less likely to sway.
10. Helps to prolong the life of the trailer.
Another importance of managing the weight is that it helps prolong the trailer’s life. This is because if the weight is too high, it can cause excessive wear and tear on the trailer, making it more likely to break down.
Bottom line
The bottom line is that the weight is important to manage because it can affect the safety of your trailer, the life of your trailer, and the ease of towing.
If you are not sure how to properly manage the tongue weight, it is best to consult with a professional.
Jack is the owner, chief editor, and senior writer of this website.
Machinery, engines, and farming have always been a passion of his since he was a young boy. Growing up on a small farm in rural America, he learned the value of hard work and dedication from an early age.
After completing his degree in Engineering, he decided to follow his dream and became a farmer in 2009.
Since then, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. He has grown a variety of crops, tended to farm animals, and worked with all sorts of farming machinery. Continue reading…
