What Does Gross Trailer Weight and Tongue Weight Mean for a Trailer Hitch on a 2004 Chevy Malibu

Question:

Yes, was reading the information on the hitch. Not sure what the difference is between the 3,5oo to the tongue 350 weight? Also. is this a hitch the i could use to pull a small trailer? The trial size I am looking at is a 4 x 8.

asked by: Susan

Expert Reply:

On the Curt trailer hitch # 12280, the gross trailer weight capacity is 3,500 pounds. Gross trailer weight is the total weight of the trailer and its contents. The tongue weight capacity is 350 pounds. Tongue weight is the amount of vertical weight pushing down on the receiver opening. Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of gross trailer weight.

Provided that the loaded trailer does not exceed these capacities AND the vehicle is capable of towing the weight (consult the owners manual for the vehicle towing capacities) you can tow the rental trailer.

To complete the towing set up, you will also need a properly sized ball for the coupler on the trailer, and trailer wiring. The hitch comes with a ball mount, pin, and clip. The rental place should be able to tell you the ball size you need. For a 1-7/8 inch ball use # 19256 and for a 2 inch ball use # 19258.

For trailer wiring, use # 18252. I have included a link to the installation details for the hitch and a video showing a typical installation on a similar vehicle for the wiring for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H