formula for tongue length

[bad_bo_ti]

is there some kind of formula for tongue length in relation to actual trailer deck length? i am going to be starting my bed trailer soon and dont want to cut to much off or make it to long that it lifts my truck up when loaded. thanks, chris

 

[Leadfoot]

I don't know if/what the formula is, but I know other things such as axle placement and placement of intended load (weight distribution on the deck), play a more important part when considering tongue length/weight than the size of the deck....

 

[Muddytazz]

Take a look at most small utility trailers and bigger tongue pull trailers, they all have about the same length tongue's (around 3' - 5' ). Like leadfoot said, its more axle placement that makes more of a difference.

 

[Leadfoot]

I thought I remember hearing that you want 10% of the weight to be on the tongue (tongue weight). Somebody may be able to confirm or disprove this, but it may help when trying to decide on dimensions, length, and axle placement.

 

[dhcomp]

Its going to depend on if its a long bed or short bed.

I would error on the long side though, makes the trailer easier to move by hand.

 

[bad_bo_ti]

its a long bed, i guess i need to go out and look at a small trailer with a simialr set up, 8ft deck and see where the axle sits and what the tongue length is, looks like i am heading out to tsc or lowes!! thanks guys

 

[fatbob]

This site has some useful info and dimentions[SP]
http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billa...info on building your own utility trailer.mht