This tool assists in determining the appropriate downward force exerted by a gooseneck trailer on the hitch located in the bed of a towing vehicle. It quantifies the load necessary for stable and safe towing, typically expressed as a percentage of the gross trailer weight. For example, a trailer with a gross weight of 20,000 pounds requiring a 20% downward force would necessitate 4,000 pounds of load on the hitch.
Accurate determination of this load is crucial for several reasons. Insufficient load can lead to trailer sway and instability, increasing the risk of accidents. Excessive load can overload the towing vehicle’s rear axle, potentially damaging the vehicle’s suspension and reducing braking effectiveness. Historically, achieving the correct load required manual calculations and estimations, leading to potential inaccuracies. Modern tools provide a more precise and efficient method.
