Does Higher Tongue Weight Capacity for Weight Distribution Only Apply to Towing

Question:

Hi, I have a 2012 Ford Flex with a class III hitch. Ratings are 2,000 tow and 200 tongue and 4,500 and 450 with a weight distributing tongue. I wanted to use a hitch mount carrier to carry a snowblower with total weight of carrier and blower under 450. However, I do not know if having a weight distributing tongue will increase my tongue load allowance to 450 or if that only applies to a tow trailer.

asked by: Zach

Expert Reply:

If your trailer hitch is rated for a higher tongue weight capacity with the use of a weight distribution system, that would only apply to when you are towing with that system. The higher capacity with that system does not transfer to things such as cargo carriers.

expert reply by: Kyle S