Tongue weight

["Joel M Brodsky" <jmbrodsky@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Ryan,
      Ryan, what method do you use to calculate these weights while towing.
The equation you speak of is a lot like welding, sometimes it's easier to
just 'get a fell' than actually analyze it.

      I was told to use ~10% as a rule for tongue weight.  As it was, I
could tow at any speed the truck would do.  Uphill int hem ountains was a
killer, sometimes as slow as 19mph in 1st gear so that I wouldn't load the
AutoTrans too much.  The temp got quite warm, with it being 110+ outside,
and the heater on and windows open to reduce the engine heat.  Trailer
brakes and all, it was a total piece of cake, and at this point, I feel
confident towing a scout with a scout, just have to keep an eye in the
mirrors.  My trailer width is about 9 feet 6, so it fills the lane pretty
well, and doesn't give you much room for crosswinds.

Welp, it was fine.  Matt, Dave, let me know what you think.

JoelB

Date: Sat, 28 Jun 2003 06:33:13 -0500
From: "Ryan Moore" <baradium@domain.elided>
Subject: Re: Trailer Remedy from JoelB

- ----- Original Message -----
From: "joel brodsky" <travelall1974@domain.elided>
To: <ihc@domain.elided>
Sent: Saturday, June 28, 2003 03:18
Subject: Trailer Remedy from JoelB


<snip>
> How does one get a 'scale' for trailer tongue weight,
> without having 100lb cube blocks to put in the back of
> the truck and measure the ride height?
>
<snip>

The problem is, tongue weight isn't so much a set weight as a proportion
relative to the load you are carrying.  There are a lot of factors in the
equation.  Levelers and a sway bar (trailer sway bar) go a long way towards
making it a little more forgiving.

- -Ryan