What is tongue weight?

Tongue weight refers to the amount of weight that the trailer exerts downward on the hitch of the tow vehicle. It is an essential factor in towing because it affects the stability and handling of both the trailer and the towing vehicle. Proper tongue weight ensures that the trailer is balanced; too little can cause the trailer to sway, while too much can lead to excessive weight on the towing vehicle’s rear axle, potentially affecting steering and braking performance.

To achieve optimal towing performance, it's recommended that the tongue weight is typically around 10-15% of the total trailer weight when fully loaded. Understanding and managing tongue weight helps maintain control and safety while towing, making it a crucial aspect for any truck driver or owner of a towing vehicle.