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Warning – Craftsman 0220 User Manual

Page 37

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tongue exerts an upward pull on the hitch, instead of pushing down on it (because

the trailer is overloaded behind its axle(s)), the rear wheel of the tow vehicle can

lose traction or grip and cause loss of control. Also, even if there is 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 tow

vehicle can be too lightly loaded and cause loss of steering control and traction, as

well, if the front wheels are driving.

In addition to tow vehicle control, tongue weight is necessary to insure that the trailer

axle(s) do not exceed their Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

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 ball hitch and a

loaded weight of 1,000 pounds, should have 10-15% of 1,000 pounds on the tongue.

That is, the example trailer would have no more than 100 to 150 pounds on its tongue.

WARNING

Never go under the trailer unless it has been properly supported

with jack stands that have been rated for the load. Without be-

ing properly supported, the trailer may fall suddenly which may

result in serious injury or death.”

Tongue Weight as a Percentage of loaded Trailer Weight
Type of Hitch

Percentage

Ball Hitch (or Bumper Hitch)

10–15%

WARNING

Improper tongue weight (load distribution) can result in loss of

control of the trailer, leading to death or serious injury.

Make certain that tongue weight is within the 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 over-

load; and

• Keep the center of gravity low.