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Tongue weight (tw), Frontal area, Trailer sway control – Dodge 2015 Dart - Owner Manual User Manual

Page 520: Weight-carrying hitch, Weight-distributing hitch

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Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the

hitch ball by the trailer. The recommended tongue weight

is 10% to 15% of the vehicle’s GTW for a conventional

hitch. You must consider this as part of the load on your

vehicle.
Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the

maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can be

installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue

that typically provides adjustable friction associated with

the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer

swaying motions while traveling.

Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue

weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or

some other connecting point of the truck. These kind of

hitches are the most popular on the market today and

they are commonly used to tow small- and medium-

sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch system works by applying

leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically

used for heavier loads, to distribute trailer tongue weight

to the tow vehicle’s front axle and the trailer axle(s).

When used in accordance with the manufacturer’s direc-

tions, it provides for a more level ride, offering more

consistent steering and brake control and thereby en-

hancing towing safety. The addition of a friction/

hydraulic sway control also dampens sway caused by

traffic and crosswinds, contributing positively to tow

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