Total trailer weight
Do
not exceed the maximum allowable weight of the trailer, cargo and everything in
or on it shown in the table below. Towing loads in excess of this can seriously
affect vehicle handling and performance and can damage the engine and
drivetrain.
Each
weight limit is calculated based on the following conditions:
- Occupants fill seats from the front of the vehicle to the back.
- Each occupant weighs 150 lbs (68 kg).
- Each occupant has 17.6 lb (8 kg) of cargo in the cargo area.
- Any additional weight, cargo, or accessories reduce the maximum trailer weight and maximum tongue load.
Tongue Load
The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer on the hitch should be approximately:
- Boat trailers: 5 - 15% of
the total trailer weight
- Other trailers: 10 - 15% of the total trailer weight
To estimate the tongue load
Excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
You
can estimate the tongue load by measuring the trailer hitch height from the
ground in the following steps:
- Park the vehicle on level ground.
- Measure the distance between the ground and the bottom of the trailer hitch.
- Connect the fully loaded trailer to the hitch.
- Measure the distance between the ground and the bottom of the trailer hitch again.
- Subtract the second measurement from the first measurement, then refer to the following table.
If the difference becomes more than indicated in the table, distribute the load or remove cargo as needed.
How to weigh the trailer loads using a public scale
Check
each weight in the order indicated as shown. Refer to the table below for each
weight's limit except for the tongue load.
- If you cannot weigh the rear axle, subtract 1 from 2.
- The maximum gross combined weight (4) decreases by 2% for every 1,000 feet (305m) of elevation.
- To calculate the tongue load, subtract 5 from 6.
- Refer to the trailer owner's manual for additional information.
Note: If a
public scale is not available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to
the weight of your trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer), and then measure
the tongue load with an appropriate scale or tongue gauge or estimate it based
on cargo distribution.