Subaru Forester: Tongue load
Tongue load
Ensure that the trailer tongue load is from 8 to 11 percent of the total trailer weight and does not exceed the maximum value of 200 lbs (90 kg).
1) Jack
2) Bathroom scale
The tongue load can be weighed with a bathroom scale as shown in the illustration above. When weighing the tongue load, be sure to position the towing coupler at the height at which it would be during actual towing, using a jack as shown.
F: Front of vehicle
The tongue load can be adjusted by proper distribution of the load in the trailer.
Never load the trailer with more weight in the back than in the front; approximately 60 percent of the trailer load should be in the front and approximately 40 percent in the rear. Also, distribute the load as evenly as possible on both the left and right sides.
Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while driving.
If the trailer is loaded with more weight in the back of trailer’s axle than in the front, the load is taken off the rear axle of the towing vehicle.
This may cause the rear wheels to skid, especially during braking or when vehicle speed is reduced during cornering, resulting in oversteer, spin out and/or jackknifing.
Gross Axle Weight (GAW) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
Gross Axle Weight The total weight applied to each axle (GAW) must never exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The front and rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating passengers and l ...Trailer hitches
Never drill the frame or under-body of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous exhaust gas, water or mud may enter the passenger compartment through the ...See also:
Optional settings – these settings can be changed
• Vehicle speed is limited to 80 mph (130 km/h). Visual warnings are
displayed followed by a chime when the vehicle speed has reached
80 mph (130 km/h).
• Visual warnings are displayed followed ...
Recirculation/air quality system
Recirculation
This function can be used to
shut out exhaust fumes,
smoke, etc., from the passenger
compartment. The air in
the passenger compartment
is then recirculated, i.e., no air
f ...
Coupling up a trailer
Observe the maximum permissible trailer dimensions (width and length).
Most U.S. states and all Canadian provinces require by law:
safety chains between the towing vehicle and the trailer. The ch ...