When a trailer is properly hitched up to a tow vehicle with a load equalizing hitch, approximately 1/3 of the trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s axles and 2/3 will be transferred to the tow vehicle.
One third of this weight transfer will be carried by the front wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See illustration). Thus, the tire load of each wheel on the tow vehicle will be increased by 1/6 of the trailer’s tongue weight.
The tire air pressure of the tow vehicle should be increased to compensate for this additional weight. Refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for this information.
Tip: The tongue weight should be approximately 10 to 15% of the trailer’s total weight. Under no condition should it exceed the tow vehicles hitch rating. Please refer to the tow vehicles documentation for your vehicles hitch rating information.
Tip: To prevent vehicle sag and distribute weight across the tow vehicle and travel trailer, use a weight distribution hitch.
