Determine Towing Weights

The most important factors in choosing the correct towing equipment are the trailer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and tongue weight (TW).

• TRAILER:
  GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING
  Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the weight of the trailer completely loaded (i.e., including food, water, gear, etc.) To determine actual GVWR, the loaded trailer should be placed on a commercial scale.
• TONGUE WEIGHT
  Tongue Weight is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler. Usually, TW is 10% of GVWR. TONGUE WEIGHT may be measured using a bathroom scale by placing the scale on a box (choose a box size that allows the trailer to be at its normal towing height), then rest the trailer coupler on the scale. Load the trailer as if being towed.
• VEHICLE
  The vehicle's maximum towing capacity is determined by the vehicle manufacturer. This can be found in the owner's manual.

Never exceed the lowest-rated towing component (i.e., hitch, ball mount, hitch ball, etc.)