how do I properly weigh my rig?
I want to weigh my rig on my next camping trip, but am a little confused on how to do this. I want to make sure I get all the pertinent weight measurements, like truck weight, travel trailer weight, ...
Forum Discussion
Ron
I agree but the tongue weight while towing is a function of the WD.
Let's say a 6000 lb loaded trailer has 800 lbs of tongue weight. When you level the TT with the WD hitch, theoretically it transfers about 160 lbs back to the TT axles.(about 20%)
This leaves 640 lb on the TV which shows up as a change in weight on the TV axles. You are now at 10% of the TT weight.
Here is where theory hits the cold light of reality. Do you add weight to your front storage to bring the TV tongue weight back up to 800 lbs. and let the TV rear end sag? Then do you tighten the WD chains to level the TT again; which will throw some of your added weight gain back on the TT axle? All of which is adding to the axle weight.
My best results have been to do what the TT dealer and Ford suggests. I put the TT on the ball, adjust the links so the TT sits level and the change in the height of the fenders at the wheels is about the same front and rear.
The real proof of the pudding is how it feels while towing, I have stopped a time or two to add or subtract a link.
I agree but the tongue weight while towing is a function of the WD.
Let's say a 6000 lb loaded trailer has 800 lbs of tongue weight. When you level the TT with the WD hitch, theoretically it transfers about 160 lbs back to the TT axles.(about 20%)
This leaves 640 lb on the TV which shows up as a change in weight on the TV axles. You are now at 10% of the TT weight.
Here is where theory hits the cold light of reality. Do you add weight to your front storage to bring the TV tongue weight back up to 800 lbs. and let the TV rear end sag? Then do you tighten the WD chains to level the TT again; which will throw some of your added weight gain back on the TT axle? All of which is adding to the axle weight.
My best results have been to do what the TT dealer and Ford suggests. I put the TT on the ball, adjust the links so the TT sits level and the change in the height of the fenders at the wheels is about the same front and rear.
The real proof of the pudding is how it feels while towing, I have stopped a time or two to add or subtract a link.
