ervtx

Please check my logic on this approach for estimating proper weight distribution at the hitch...

I understand the most basic approach is to add up trailer weight plus car weight, and then position the car in order to place between 10 - 15% of the total weight at the hitch. But is there a way to achieve the same result if only the weight of the car is known? In other words, is it safe to assume that the unloaded trailer is designed to initially distribute 10 - 15% of its weight to the hitch? (Assume it is from a reputable manufacturer, not a "1-off", and that the hitch is at the appropriate height for a level trailer).

And if the answer is to the above is yes, then wouldn't it be sufficient to simply a) weigh the unloaded trailer at the hitch, b) load the trailer, and c) position the car so that the new weight at the hitch is equal to 15% of the car's weight? For example, loading a 3000 lb. car would translate into a 450 lb. increase in weight at the hitch, whereas a 2000 lb. car would translate to a 300 lb. increase.

It's obviously better to simply know the trailer weight and measure the distribution just the one time (after the car is loaded), but I want to load a car before I get a chance to weigh the trailer.

TIA for your advice.

bobt993

http://www.etrailer.com/faq_weightdistribution.aspx

Just use a normal scale ( the method shown above) and you don't need to know the trailer weight etc. Move the car until the weight is where you want it, mark the trailer with the cars wheel position and your done. Make sure you load tires and whatever else your adding to the trailer including 1/2 a tank of fuel in the car.

ervtx

That's the essence of my question! Where do I want it???

The site you gave me says:
(That was already stated in my post).
(Also consistent with my initial post).

The problem is that I don't have a vehicle scale, only a Sherline trailer hitch scale. So my question is: Rather than using

TW/GTW = 15%

can I use

TW(loaded) - TW(empty) = 15% x Vehicle Weight

Giacomo

I think that if you provide the forum with the particulars of the trailer you are going to use you will get a very good estimate of the actual weight. Since you are only looking to get 10% to 15% on the hitch a good approximation of the trailer weight is all you really need.

ervtx

I was hoping to get close enough just for today. I can get the actual weight from the manufacturer tomorrow, at which time the question goes away.

FWIW, it's 16 ft open bed all steel dovetail trailer. 2 axles. 2 all steel 5-ft ramps. Marine battery and electric winch mounted at the tongue.

bobt993

Car weight approx 3000 lbs. Trailer weight for the only metal one I had was 1800 lbs with and open platform (no full deck). Say 2000 lbs with yours. You should start there and adjust if necessary by how the towing feels. Pay attention to tail wag and or excessive compression of your rear tow car suspension.

bobt993

I did some checking on trailers for sale: 18ft steel deck, open, beaver tail etc. Weight ranged from 2000 lb to 2200 lbs on 5 models I looked at. Hope that helps.

ervtx

Thanks. That's pretty much what I've done, but I'm a perfectionist and was trying to make the math work

deep_uv

If it wags back and forth, tongue weight too much. If it bounces up and down, tongue weight not enough.

Veloce Raptor

That's what she said...............when the bed broke.

Alan Herod

I have a Brimar which seems to be a little heavier then some I have seen, 18 foot - 1740 pounds.

http://www.bri-mar.com/trailerdetail...&categorysid=4

Also 16 foot - 1660 pounds http://www.bri-mar.com/trailerdetail...&categorysid=4

need to add the weight of the winch

ervtx

If it wags back and forth while bouncing up and down all at the same time, dropped load off prematurely.

amondc

Put the car on the trailer with about enough room for a set of tires between the front bumper and the front of the trailer and you should be fine.

ltc

Buy....Now
http://www.sherline.com/lm.htm

Read...Now
http://www.sherline.com/lmbook1.pdf

Veloce Raptor

There's medicine for that now, I hear.