Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only thedriver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the requiredtrailering equipment. The weight of additional optionalequipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehiclemust be subtracted form the maximum trailer weight.You can ask your dealer/retailer for our traileringinformation or advice, or you can write us at ourCustomer Assistance Offices. See Customer AssistanceOffices on page 7-5 for more information.Weight of the Trailer TongueThe tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weightto measure because it affects the total or gross weightof your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo youmay carry in it, and the people who will be riding inthe vehicle. If you have a lot of options, equipment,passengers, or cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce thetongue weight your vehicle can carry, which will alsoreduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow. And if youtow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to theGVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight,too. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-22 formore information about your vehicle’s maximum loadcapacity.If you are using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailertongue (A) should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the totalloaded trailer weight (B).After you have loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer andthen the tongue, separately, to see if the weights areproper. If they are not, you may be able to get them rightsimply by moving some items around in the trailer.Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s TiresBe sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limitfor cold tires. You will find these numbers on theTire-Loading Information label. See Loading YourVehicle on page 4-22. Then be sure you do not go overthe GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weightof the trailer tongue.4-31
