Re: [VACList] Buick Roadmaster Tow Car

[Charlie/Betty Burke <cbburke@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Mike,

Ok, here goes.
The most desirable attitude of a trailer being towed is level. That is a
measurement taken at a reference point on both ends would be equal. To
maintain this while underway the hitch coupler (the place the hitch ball goes
into) should be at a height that holds the trailer level. The measurement
taken at the top of the coupler when the trailer is sitting unhooked and level
is hitch height.

The most desirable attitude of a tow vehicle is the same as when it is not
being towed. The attitude is important for steering stability, headlights and
proper suspension movement. This attitude varies with the vehicle. Most
automobiles are relatively level, while most pickup trucks and SUV's are
higher in back.. Maintaining this desirable attitude is one of the primary
functions of any weight distributing hitch. By distributing weight forward and
back away from the hitch ball/coupler it raises the hitch ball/coupler back up
to the original hitch height and forces the tow vehicle and the trailer to
carry the weight. The effect on the tow vehicle is to settle it down. The
important measure is that the tow vehicle should settle equally front and back
to maintain the original attitude. This done by measuring a reference point on
the front and back of the tow vehicle unhitched and then again afterwards. The
amount of settling should be equal.
Hope this helps.

Charlie