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tongueexertsanupwardpullontilehitch,insteadofpushingdownonit(because
the trailet is overloaded behind its axle(s)), tile tear wheel of the tow vehicle can
lose traction ol grip m_dcause loss of control Also, even if there [s some weight on
the tongue, but not enough weight on the tongue, the trailer can suddenly become
unstable at high speeds
If, on the other hand, there is too much tongue weight, the front wheels of the troy
vehicle can be too lightly loaded and cause loss of' steering control and traction, as
welt, if the front wheels are &iving
In addition to tow vehicle control, tongue weight is necessary to insule that the tlailer
axle(s) do not exceed theil Gloss Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The table belmv has "tufes of thumb" fol pioper tongue weight
tn the table below, the second column notes tile 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 uailet with a ball hitch and a
loaded weight of 1.000 pounds, should have i0-15% of 1,000 pounds on the tongue
That is, the example tlailer would have no more than 100 to 150 pounds on its tongue.
a: ng6eWei htgs LoaaeaTi:,,it rW igii
Type of Hitch Percentaae
Bail Hitch (ot Bumper Hitch1 10-15%
Never' go uudel the trailer unless it has been properly supported
with,jack stands that have been rated fbr the toad, Without be.-
ing properly suppor*ed, the trailer may fall suddenly which may
result in serious injury or death"
Improper tongue weight (toad distribution) can result in loss of
control of the trailer, leading to death or sel ious iniuty
Make certain that tongue weight is within the allowable range
Be sine to:
• Distribute the load front-to-rear to plovide propel tongue
weight (see chart);
• Distribute the load evenly, right and left, to avoid tire over-
load; and
• Keep the center of gravity low
.... _g-'3
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