Can a Trailer Ride With the Tongue at an Upward or Downward Angle
Question:
I recently lifted my trailer and it now looks like I need between an 8 and a 10 to tow my trailer. I think the 8 might make the trailer coupler slightly higher than level. Does this cause a problem?
asked by: Randy
Expert Reply:
Yes, a trailer that is nose up can cause big problems. A level trailer is ideal and worth working toward for safety. The good news is that you can get the trailer almost exactly level with switching ball mounts. This is where an adjustable ball mount like Convert-a-Ball # TK5007 comes in handy.
If you are unable to achieve level even with an adjustable ball mount, it is better for the trailer to be slightly nose down so long as the tongue weight capacity of the hitch and vehicle is not exceeded. If a trailer is nose up too much, the tongue weight is low enough that the trailer may begin to sway.
So in short, level is best. If level is not possible, then try to go slightly nose down. Slightly nose up can be fine, but keep an eye out for trailer sway.
You can view some additional information on towing a trailer at the links provided.
Products Referenced in This Question
Adjustable Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 9" Rise to 10-1/4" Drop - 5,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Adjustable Ball Mount
- No Ball
- 1 Inch Ball Hole Diameter
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 10 Inch
- Rise - 9 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 5000 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Convert-A-Ball
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Martin N.
3/3/2020
Will increasing the towball height on the towing vehicle decrease noseweight on a twin axle trailer or does this only apply to single axle ones?Thanks.