Towing requires more than just attaching a trailer to a vehicle and driving off. It involves understanding the physics of weight distribution, angles, and other variables to ensure safe and successful transport. ProPride Hitch is committed to educating their customers on the importance of proper towing techniques, whether they are hauling heavy equipment for work or taking a camper on a family vacation.

Know your capacity

It's important to understand the towing capacity of your vehicle before hitting the road with a load in tow. Overloading your vehicle can cause excess stress on the engine and frame, leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. To avoid these issues, make sure to research your vehicle's towing capabilities, which can typically be found in the owner's manual, on the door jamb, or online. Don't be "that person" who ignores these guidelines and puts themselves and others at risk. Stay informed and stay safe on the road.

Calculating weight

To determine the weight of your load, first consider the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCVWR). This is the maximum weight of the towing vehicle and everything it will be carrying, including any passengers, fuel, and other fluids. Next, determine the curb weight, or the weight of the towing vehicle with all its passengers and fluids. Subtract the curb weight from the GCVWR to find the vehicle's towing capacity. It is important to stay within this capacity to avoid overloading the vehicle and potentially causing damage or accidents. For added safety, it is recommended to stay within 10% of the towing capacity.

What is tongue weight?

Tongue weight refers to the downward force exerted on the trailer hitch by the load being carried. It is generally recommended that tongue weight be between 9-15% of the total load weight. For example, if you are hauling a load that weighs 5,000 pounds, the tongue weight should be around 500 pounds. This helps ensure proper weight distribution and stability while towing.

What is payload?

Payload is the total weight of everything that goes into the cabin and bed of a tow vehicle, including passengers, luggage, and other items. It is important to know the payload capacity of your vehicle, as exceeding it can result in reduced fuel efficiency, shortened tire life, and even damage to the vehicle's suspension. Towing capacity, on the other hand, refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely pull in a trailer. It is important to ensure that the combined weight of the tow vehicle, trailer, and everything being carried in them does not exceed the manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.

Trailer hitch classes

There are 5 classes of trailer hitches designed for different towing needs. Class I hitches are suitable for cars and midsize crossover vehicles, and can handle a load of around 2,000 pounds with a tongue weight of 200 pounds. Class II hitches are suitable for larger cars, vans, and crossovers, and can handle a load of around 3,500 pounds with a tongue weight of 350 pounds. Class III hitches are suitable for large trucks, vans, and SUVs, and can handle a load of up to 5,000 pounds with a tongue weight of around 800 pounds (though it is recommended to stay within 10% of this, so aim for a tongue weight of around 500 pounds). Class IV hitches are also suitable for large trucks, vans, and SUVs, and can handle a load of up to 10,000 pounds with a tongue weight of 1,200 pounds. These are good for hauling large campers, lawn equipment, and boats. Class V hitches are suitable for trucks and SUVs with high towing capacity and can handle a tongue weight of up to 2,000 pounds. These are best for hauling car trailers, horse/livestock trailers, and similar large loads.

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