Simply enter the trailer weight and load distribution percentage to get an accurate result.
Tongue Weight Calculator
How To Use The Tongue Weight Calculator
Gather the required information
You will need to know the gross weight of your trailer and the percentage of the weight that is distributed on the tongue. You can find the gross weight of your trailer in its documentation, or by using a scale to weigh the trailer and its contents.
Open the tongue weight calculator
Navigate to the tongue weight calculator webpage or application.
Enter the gross weight of your trailer
Using your keyboard, enter the gross weight of your trailer in the input field labeled “Trailer Weight (lbs)”. This is typically expressed in pounds (lbs).
Enter the percentage of the weight distributed on the tongue
Using your keyboard, enter the percentage of the trailer’s weight that is distributed on the tongue in the input field labeled “Load Distribution (% on Tongue)”. The percentage value should be a number between 10 and 15 percent.
Click the “Calculate” button
Once you have entered the required information, click the “Calculate” button. The calculator will then use the formula discussed earlier to calculate the tongue weight.
View the result
The result of the calculation will be displayed on the screen in the form of the tongue weight, which is typically expressed in pounds (lbs).
Interpret the result
Once you have the tongue weight value, compare it to the towing capacity and tongue weight capacity of your vehicle and hitch to ensure that you are towing safely and within the recommended limits.
Common mistakes to avoid when using our tongue weight calculator
Inaccurate Trailer Weight
One of the most common mistakes when using a tongue weight calculator is inputting an inaccurate trailer weight.
This can be due to not taking into account the weight of any items inside the trailer or not accurately measuring the trailer’s weight.
It’s important to ensure that you have an accurate measurement of the trailer’s weight to ensure that the tongue weight calculation is correct.
Incorrect Load Distribution Percentage
Another common mistake is inputting an incorrect load distribution percentage.
It’s essential to determine the load distribution percentage accurately to get a precise estimate of the tongue weight.
Load distribution percentage can vary depending on the type of trailer, the cargo, and other factors.
Ensure that you consult your owner’s manual or a qualified towing expert to determine the correct load distribution percentage for your trailer.
Using the Wrong Hitch Type or Position
The hitch type and position can significantly impact the tongue weight.
Using the wrong hitch type or position can result in an inaccurate tongue weight calculation.
Make sure to use the correct hitch type and position as recommended by your owner’s manual or a qualified towing expert.
Failing to Account for Additional Weight
It’s essential to take into account the additional weight of any cargo, fuel, and passengers in the towing vehicle.
This additional weight can impact the tongue weight calculation.
Ensure that you have an accurate measurement of the total weight of the towing vehicle and the cargo it carries to get a precise estimate of the tongue weight.
Not Factoring in the Towing Vehicle’s Weight Limit
Lastly, it’s crucial to consider the towing vehicle’s weight limit when calculating the tongue weight.
Exceeding the weight limit can cause safety issues and damage to the towing vehicle.
Ensure that the tongue weight of the trailer does not exceed the weight limit recommended by the towing vehicle’s manufacturer.
Factors That Can Affect Tongue Weight
Gross weight of the trailer
The gross weight of the trailer, which includes the weight of the trailer itself and its contents, is the primary factor that affects tongue weight.
As the gross weight of the trailer increases, the tongue weight will also increase, and vice versa.
Load distribution
The distribution of weight on the trailer also plays a significant role in determining tongue weight.
If the majority of the weight is located towards the rear of the trailer, the tongue weight will be lower.
Conversely, if the weight is distributed towards the front of the trailer, the tongue weight will be higher.
Hitch type and position
The type of hitch used to connect the trailer to the vehicle, as well as its position on the vehicle, can also affect tongue weight.
For example, a weight-distributing hitch can help to distribute the weight more evenly, resulting in a lower tongue weight.
Moving the hitch farther back on the vehicle can also result in a lower tongue weight.
Vehicle weight and capacity
The weight and towing capacity of the vehicle can also impact tongue weight.
If the vehicle is relatively lightweight and has a low towing capacity, the tongue weight should be kept low to avoid overloading the vehicle.
Cargo placement
The placement of cargo within the trailer can also affect tongue weight.
For example, placing heavy items towards the front of the trailer will increase the tongue weight, while placing them towards the rear will decrease the tongue weight.
Trailer design
Finally, the design of the trailer itself can also impact tongue weight.
For example, trailers with a longer distance between the axles and the tongue tend to have a lower tongue weight, while those with a shorter distance between the axles and the tongue tend to have a higher tongue weight.
Why is Tongue Weight Important?
Safety
Maintaining proper tongue weight is essential for safe towing.
If the tongue weight is too low, it can cause the trailer to sway, which can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and potentially cause an accident.
If the tongue weight is too high, it can overload the rear suspension of the vehicle and cause it to become unstable.
Towing capacity
Vehicles are designed to tow a certain amount of weight, and exceeding this capacity can cause damage to the vehicle and increase the risk of an accident.
Proper tongue weight is important for staying within the towing capacity of the vehicle.
Vehicle handling
Proper tongue weight can improve the handling and stability of the vehicle.
If the tongue weight is too low, the front wheels of the vehicle may not have enough traction to steer properly, especially in slippery or wet conditions.
If the tongue weight is too high, it can cause the vehicle to sag in the rear, which can affect braking and steering.
Wear and tear on the vehicle
Improper tongue weight can cause excess wear and tear on the vehicle, including the suspension, brakes, and tires.
This can lead to costly repairs and decrease the lifespan of the vehicle.
Insurance and legal liability
Exceeding the towing capacity or improperly loading a trailer can lead to insurance and legal liabilities in the event of an accident.
Proper tongue weight can help avoid these issues and ensure that you are towing safely and responsibly.
Final Words
Our tongue weight calculator can be a useful tool for estimating the tongue weight of a trailer, but it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to inaccurate results.
It’s important to ensure that you have an accurate measurement of the trailer’s weight, and load distribution percentage and that you’re using the correct hitch type and position.
Also, factor in the towing vehicle’s weight limit and any additional weight of cargo, fuel, and passengers.
Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified towing expert for guidance on safe and accurate tongue weight.
