How much tongue?

[M35A2]

I've observed that many expedition trailers have extended tongues that are used to carry boxes, batteries, Gerry cans and other equipment.

With this type of setup, there is seemingly a good deal of tongue weight.

I am familiar with the old guideline of 10% of the total trailer weight on the tongue, up to the rating of the hitch.

With the axle mounted as far back as is often is, I am sure that more than 10% of the trailer weight is resting on the hitch.

Is my understanding of the guideline correct? Is there a reason why some rigs are set up with this much tongue?

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: The longer the tongue, the more manueverable the trailer is in reverse and gives more towing stability--

I've observed that many expedition trailers have extended tongues that are used to carry boxes, batteries, Gerry cans and other equipment.

With this type of setup, there is seemingly a good deal of tongue weight.

I am familiar with the old guideline of 10% of the total trailer weight on the tongue, up to the rating of the hitch.

With the axle mounted as far back as is often is, I am sure that more than 10% of the trailer weight is resting on the hitch.

Is my understanding of the guideline correct? Is there a reason why some rigs are set up with this much tongue?

Even though the axles appear to be set behind the ctr of the trailer, most people will pack "HEAVY" items,inside behind the axle and that will fulcrum lessor weight in the front (tongue)-

It works for me, my trailer usually is around 1000lbs packed and the tongue weight avg 70lbs-

You just have to do some smart packing and the long tongue is beneficial and will make off-road angles easier on the hitch !

Good luck

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO