Tongue weight

[zuley]

Hypothetical question if I may? Supposing your vehicle has a tongue weight limit of let say 500 pounds and your trailer has a tongue weight of 900 pounds. By using a weight distributing hitch does that alleviate the issue of being over weight on the tongue?
Sorry, I realize this is an uneducated question but something I have always wondered about when looking at specs of various trailers.

[Corbin1357]

That is the idea! Your hitch should have the max tongue weight listed on it with and without weight distribution.

[Terrydactile]

Yes thats correct. My hitch is rated for 500 lbs, and 800 lbs with weight distributing hitch. Check your hitch model for specifications. You also have to pay attention to hitch weight specs on the vehicle.

[SteveC7010]

A weight distributing hitch system does not increase a tow vehicle's load and axle capacity. If the vehicle is rated at 500# load on the rear axle, using a WD hitch does not increase the vehicle's load rating. It remains at 500#.

The load and axle ratings are set by the vehicle manufacturer, and should not be exceeded under normal circumstances.

Additionally, the hitch ratings should not be exceeded.

In your example, a more capable tow vehicle is needed.

[KanTC]

As Steve said, the WDH does not increase the vehicle's *maximum* tongue weight [number] as set by the vehicle manufacturer.
Approximately 10-15% of a (loaded) travel trailer's weight will transfer as hitch weight... and, typically, a WDH doesn't *re-distribute* enough
weight to "alleviate the issue of being over weight on the tongue".

"How Tongue Weight Works"
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-p...gue-weight.htm

"How Towing Weight Distribution Systems Work"
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-p...on-systems.htm

"How Does a Weight Distribution Hitch Work?"
http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5010073...itch-work.html

Hope this helps,
Terri, the Chevy co-pilot

[SAABDOCTOR]

Zulley, there are no dumb questions esp. when it comes to safty. steve and kantc as well as myself are in agreement. NEVER EXCEED THE TOUNGE WEIGHT OF YOUR HITCH AND MANUFACTURE OF THE TOW VEHICLE. if you do the ride you experiance will be frightfull have a great day