Craftsman 0220 - Manual (Page 38)

7.1. CHeCKING THe ToNGUe WeIGHT
To check the tongue weight, the tow vehicle and trailer must be on level ground, as
they will be when the trailer is being towed.
If you know the weight on your tow vehicle axles when you are not towing a trailer,
trailer tongue weight can be determined with the use of a truck axle scale.
The recommended method of checking tongue weight is to use an accessory called a
“tongue weight scale.” If a tongue weight scale is not available, you can check the
tongue weight using a bathroom scale.
Using a bathroom scale to check tongue weight: The loaded trailer must be on a
smooth and level surface, and you must block the trailer wheels, front and rear.
7.1.1 Checking Tongue Weight — Using a lever and bathroom scale
Before checking tongue weight, block trailer wheels, front and rear.
• Raise the tongue of the trailer with the tongue jack.
• Place a bathroom scale on the ground, directly below the coupler.
• Place a strong block support (such as a cement block) on the scale – note the
scale reading for the weight of the block support.
• Lower the tongue until the coupler rests on the block support and the jack is ½
inch above the ground.
• The scale reading, minus the weight of the block support is the tongue weight.
7.2 Securing the Cargo
Since the trailer “ride” can be bumpy and rough, you must secure your cargo so that
it does not shift while the trailer is being towed.
7.2.1 loading Cargo
Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle before loading. This is essential because the
tongue can rise during loading, before the cargo is properly distributed. To
measure the tongue weight, you will have to uncouple the trailer after it is loaded.
Do not transport people in the trailer. Do not transport containers of hazardous
substances, cans or containers of flammable substances, such as gasoline,
WARNING
An unrestrained trailer can fall off its support, resulting in seri-
ous injury or death.
WARNING
Shifting cargo can result in loss of control of the trailer, and can
lead to death or serious injury.
Tie down all loads with proper sized fasteners, ropes, straps, etc.