User Manual

Types of trailer hitches
The four most common types of hitches are:
Receiver-style Hitches
Receiver-style hitches are attached under the tow vehicle
(usually frame-mounted) and are designed to carry the
weight of the trailer (GTW) through the tongue weight of
the trailer (TW). The amount of tongue weight that is
carried on the hitch ball and ball mount (attached to the receiver hitch with a pin and clip)
is roughly calculated to be between 10%-15% of the GTW. For example, a trailer
weighing 2,000 GTW will usually have a tongue weight of between 200-300 lbs. It is this
tongue weight that is carried directly on the ball/ball mount. Keep in mind that the TW
only accounts for part of the weight rating scheme. You should never tow more that what
your hitch and/or vehicle is rated for regardless of the circumstances. Some receiver-style
hitches, i.e. 2" receivers, have two gross weight ratings. One for weight carrying and
another for weight distribution.