TOWCHECK FIELD GUIDE
How to measure weight-distribution axle restoration
Three comparable axle-weight passes can show how hitching the trailer changes front and rear tow-vehicle loads and how the chosen weight-distribution adjustment changes them again.
What the terms mean
The unhitched pass establishes the loaded tow vehicle baseline. A connected pass with weight distribution disengaged shows the hitch-induced change. A third pass with the chosen adjustment engaged shows measured restoration—not a universal target.
Worked example
Common mistakes
- Changing passengers, cargo or fuel between passes
- Using scale positions inconsistently
- Treating a generic restoration percentage as a substitute for the exact vehicle and hitch instructions
Frequently asked questions
Does TowCheck recommend a percentage?
No. It reports measurements so you can compare them with current instructions for the exact tow vehicle and hitch.
Why record rear-axle weight too?
Weight distribution changes both tow-vehicle axle loads, and every applicable axle and tire limit remains independent.
Should trailer axle weight also be recorded?
Yes, retain complete scale tickets when available; this worksheet focuses on tow-vehicle axle restoration.
Primary references
These sources support terminology and general planning context. Use the current documentation for your exact vehicle, trailer and components.
- Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide
- NHTSA interpretation: GVWR and GAWR definitions
- CAT Scale: How to weigh
Continue with your own numbers
Run the Complete Tow Check, use the scale worksheet, or review the calculation methodology.