How To Measure Tongue Weight Of Tent Trailer

Question:

I have a tent trailer with a gvw of approx 4000 lbs what would the tongue weight be for that trailer?

asked by: Bruce

Helpful Expert Reply:

The tongue weight of a trailer depends on the size of the trailer and how it is loaded. Typically, the tongue weight is 10 to 15 percent of the weight of the trailer in its fully loaded ready-to-tow condition. You can use a tongue weight scale like the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale, part # e99044. This has a capacity of 2,000 lbs. I have attached a link to a video that shows how the scale is used.

If you are considering a weight distribution system you would need to know the tongue weight of the ready-to-tow trailer added to the weight of any cargo placed behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle. Then you would look for a weight distribution system where the tongue weight falls close to the middle of the tongue weight range for the system.

An example would be your trailer fully loaded at 4,000 lbs and you place 100 lbs behind the rear axle of your towing vehicle. Typically the tongue weight at 10 to 15 percent would make the weight 400 to 600 lbs. Add the 100 lbs in the vehicle and you have a tongue weight between 500 and 700 lbs.

I recommend a system like the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control, part # RP66083. This is designed for a trailer that weighs up to 10,000 lbs and tongue weight between 400 and 800 lbs. This system also features anti-sway which helps keep the trailer from swaying when in high winds or when large trucks pass by.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L