CURT Hitches Towing 101 Guide

The following information has been provided by CURT Hitches to assist you in safely towing. If you are ready to buy, find the CURT Hitch for your vehicle.

Important Towing Terminology

Gross Trailer Weight:

(GTW) The Gross Trailer Weight is the weight of the trailer and cargo.  Measure this by putting the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.

Tongue Weight:

(TW) The downward force that is exerted on the hitch ball by the coupler. The tongue weight will vary depending on where the load is positioned in relationship to the trailer axle(s). To measure the tongue weight, use either a commercial scale or a bathroom scale with the coupler at towing height. When using a bathroom scale with heavier tongue weights, use the method shown and multiply the scale reading by 3.

Weight Carrying: (WC)

The total weight of both the trailer and the cargo inside.  Never exceed the weight capacity of your trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution:

(WD) Used to balance the weight of the cargo between the front and rear wheels throughout the trailer, allowing for better steering, braking and level riding.

Sway Control:

A device used to reduce the lateral movements of the trailer that are caused by the wind.  This works in conjunction with a weight distribution hitch.  Do not use this on a class 1 or 2 hitch, or with surge brakes.

Definitions of Trailer Hitches and Hitch Accessories

Receiver Hitches:

The primary device attached to the rear of the vehicle which allows you to tow.  There are five classes of hitches.  It is very important to choose the correct class of receiver hitch.  Gross trailer weight and tongue weight will determine the hitch that is needed.  Do not exceed the lowest rating of any component of your towing system.

Bumper Hitches

These hitch applications are used only for light weight towing, including bike racks and cargo carriers.  Towing should not exceed vehicle's bumper gross towing weight.  Hitch Capacities are limited to bumper capacities.

Ball Mounts:

The ball mount is placed inside the opening of the receiver hitch which is mounted to the vehicle.  Make sure a hitch pin and clip is properly securing the all mount to the receiver hitch before you begin towing. Ball mounts are grouped into three styles.

Hitch Pin and Hitch Lock:

For securing all ball mounts to receiver style hitches. Hitch locks protect against ball mount theft.

Trailer Balls:

The connection from the hitch to the trailer. There are many factors that determine the correct hitch ball.