What is a nose weight?
A nose weight is what causes the downward force of your caravan’s coupling head on your car’s tow ball. The downward force of this particular area decreases as you pick up more speed, which is why it is really important to have a good nose weight when your outfit is stationary.
Whats The Ideal Nose Weight?
Your ideal nose weight all depends on your cars manufacturer and the type of caravan you have. Generally, for safety reasons and complete towing stability, your nose weight should be 5-7% of your caravan’s actual weight.
You will be able to find the nose weight for your caravan in your cars manufacturer’s owner’s handbook. If you need any other assistance on this, ask an expert to help you.
It’s also important not to go above the recommended nose weight for your car. It is all based on the cars suspension, effects on the steering, effects on its traction and the strength of its tow bar and mounting.
Nose Weight Gauges
There are multiple nose weight gauges around but we recommend that you use a nose weight gauge with the British standard marked. These will be more accurate, reliable and durable.
If you do not own a gauge you can always use an alternative, your bathroom scales. All you have to do is lower the front steadies half way and place the scales under the coupling head with a piece of wood in between.
You should always check your nose weight before you travel anywhere, you should also check it when you change your car or caravan.
Remeber if your caravan is tilting backwards after you have loaded it, it means your nose weight is too low and needs to be adjusted. You could also try moving heavier items towards the front of your caravan.
This works both ways, if your caravan is tilting forward this means your nose weight is too high. You should try moving heavier items to the back of your caravan or remove the payload from the front of your caravan entirely.
